“Wow, I think this is the best JFAA Annual I can remember.” “The quality of the artwork is so good!” “Best Annual ever.” These are just a few of the comments from those who attended the exhibit opening reception. With fifty-three artists participating submitting a whopping 128 pieces of art, the gallery is filled to capacity with art spilling into other spaces. Many of the 2-D artworks are large, taking up premium wall space. So when you visit prepare to have little rest for your senses–with one after another piece to take in.
The juror for prizes, Greg Vettle, Jr. was challenged to make selections from such an “outstanding” gathering of regional artwork. Vettle’s selections were explained thoughtfully. He was drawn to strong work, taking into account the work’s deeper underlying meaning and what the artist was tying to convey.
BEST OF SHOW, Sue Morrissey, Fireplace Guardian & Philosopher, 2021, ceramic
PAINTING, Terry Jelsing, Meow, Meow Goes to Town, 2021, oil on panel door
DRAWING, Phyllis Lincoln, Nearing the End of His Rope, 2020, pastel on paper
MIXED MEDIA, Joel Hegerle, Big Cat, 2000, mixed media assemblage
PHOTOGRAPHY, Shane Balkowitsch, “Brothers” with Allan Demaray, 2019, wet plate collodion canvas print
PRINTMAKING, Laura VonBank, Single Horsepower, 2021, interwoven linocut
SCULPTURE, Don Paul, I Know There’s Water Here, 2021, sculpture
PROFESSIONAL ARTIST, Linda Whitney for her outstanding work in printmaking
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD – Announced at end of exhibit, after October 9th.
