A large majority of this year’s art pieces were pastels, so the majority of the placement ribbons given were for pastels. The Judge stated he had criteria when he was judging; he wanted “loose” paintings resembling abstracts. While my realistic artwork received great reviews, no placement ribbons were given to them. I would hate to be a judge at these events because of the diversity of mediums and the high quality of artistry. As my artist friend Noma Lucas said, all the artwork exhibited here were First Place Winners already.
You can get a better view of Dell’s artwork on her web site
The benefits of going to the Iowa Artists State Show are phenomenal. Speaking to the artists about their artwork is a great learning tool. I learned that many of the show’s pastel artists started with a black background. The lights seem to “pop” right off the ground / support material. Another benefit is seeing old art friends one has met through past shows and, of course, creating new friends. There’s nothing better than talking with fellow artists about techniques, new media, and, in fact, anything about art. It is so much fun!
Here Creative Artists President Donna Jelmeland and I are surrounded by some of the fantastic artwork. I want to put this plug in for CA. Creative Artists gives opportunities for local artists to exhibit and to sell their artwork. If you are local, check it out.