It was a rainy day outside on Sunday the 9, but inside at the Perceptions Art Show there were rays of creative sunshine everywhere. Original artworks by 21 local artists were judged by Florida Gulf Coast University Associate Professor of Art Mary Sullivan Voytek. Four monetary awards and two ribbon awards were given out to the talented winners. The annual art show is presented by Arts of the Inland (AOI).
Best of Show winner Maureen G. Hahn’s acrylic piece titled “Michael on Perdido” showed not only a high skill level and talent but emitted an emotional connection and feeling of awe according to Voytek.
First Place winner Connie Killebrew’s acrylic work entitled “Sweet Nothings” also showed skill, nice composition and the feeling of a caress between the lions said Voytek.
Second Place winner Donna Thewlis’ powdered mineral on porcelain piece “Yaaawow” judge Voytek felt was well done using a very difficult and unusual technique but exhibiting an emotional connection.
Third Place winner was Joan Benner for her oil painting titled “The Vega Boy.” Ms. Voytek commented it showed a good skill level in portraiture and captured the personalities.
Honorable Mention awards were given to Paul Dengler for his photograph “Sunflower” and to Jeffery Dodd for his photograph on aluminum “Baldy View.”
Artwork by East Lee County High School students of art director Samantha Hower were also showcased as well as easels constructed by students of instructor Ted Thayer at the Perceptions show held at Majestic Golf Club in Lehigh.
Local pianist and AOI member Millicent Callobre entertained during the art show.
Special thanks to Lehigh Regional Medical Center for their generous support. Thanks also to the following supporters of Arts of the Inland: Lehigh Acres Jaycee Foundation, Inc.; Landex Resorts International; Kiwanis Club of Lehigh Acres; Keiser University; Coldwell Banker; Preferred Community Bank; SDS Accounting & Tax Solutions; MA Realty-Nathan Baschieri; ABC Framing; Tommy Lee Cook, Buckingham Blues Bar; Ralph Boettger; China Star; Martha Cowen; Firehouse Community Theatre; Healthy Healing Arts Center, Holly Sansone; LaVon & Phillip Koenig; Lehigh General & Implant Dentistry; Majestic Golf Course; Charlotte Rae Nicely; BH&G/MA Realty, Barbara Truax; and The Shores at Popoyo.
Arts of the Inland is a 501(c)3 public charity, supporting the Visual, Literary and Performing Artists in the inland communities of South Florida. For further information contact: artsinland@gmail.com or 239-303-5849.
