The public radio station WUFT, from the University of Florida, Gainesville and with PBS Broadcasting ran a campaign called Artistry in Motion. It featured artists from all venues in Central Florida. Three of the artist from RSA were featured, one being me. It was a great experience when a professional video crew, lights, camera, action came to the gallery for the interview. They let me prattle on for 20 minutes and then edited it down to this wonderful vignette. I hope you enjoy it too!
The radio version is now airing. I was surprised to get into my car and hear myself on the radio! All in fun!

Artistry in Motion:
https://vimeo.com/555362868/245ddcdcd2

Entering contests is not something I do a lot of. I generally shy away from art competitions or call for artist to  submit work for posters, or themed events. But lately, your encouragement has fueled a "Why not?" approach to these requests.

Back in February, my brother sent me a link to the Virginia Wildlife Foundation Call for Artists. He said "You should enter this with your psychedelic painting." I was amused, but the contest was to depict the endangered Eastern Hellbender in Virginia. 
What on Earth is a Hellbender?
Further research revealed a fairly homely sad little critter that lives in creeks and fresh water tributaries. I mean he is quite ugly. How would I address a little dignity to this?  With no expectations, I created Cornelius Octavia III. I sent him off to Virginia and figured many would have a good laugh at my art.
On opening night, he found a new home. Much to my surprise, I received an email from the Director of the VWF that she has purchased the painting and Cornelius Octavia III would have a forever home. Aww.
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Some requests for art are right in my wheelhouse! The Pennsylvania National Horse Show asked for artists to submit artwork for their 2023 Horse Show program an official poster. But again, I had to be prompted by a friend. 
In creating "Leap of Inspiration" I wanted to capture the motion, effort and gasp of breath from the audience watching the jumper. I believe it is a constant challenge for artists to take human emotions and senses and put them into color and paint and onto a material 2D substrate.
Not sure if I pulled it off, but I was having fun trying!
I sent my work. Most contests now are all electronic, so they require files and email, etc. No problem. Then I simply forgot about it.
And again, the happiest of emails came one day!
" Congratulations! Your artwork submission received an Honorable Mention in the 2023 Pennsylvania National Horse Show 2023 Official Poster / Program Art Contest! Your work will appear in the 2023 Official Program. 
To celebrate your win, you will receive $100..."
Again, while I am self conscious about entering events and contests, these rewards are very exciting! I'm glad I can share teh art with you.

Always take the Opportunity! Rick Stevens approached me at the artist opening night , August 4 2023, at the Marion Cultural Alliance and asked if I would donate a painting for his non profit Horses 4 Warriors. This association works with veterans affected with PTSD using horses for equine therapy.  When I thought I would be just donating a painting, I didn't realize it would be much more fun than that! His Cornhole Tournament on August 26 will raise money for this venture. So would I design a cornhole board for him? SURE! Here is Corn-nelius.

The Gals dominate Hookin for Habitat May 2022!
For the second year I was asked to paint the trophies for the Missy King's Hookin for Habitat fishing tournament. This raises money to build houses for Habitat for Humanity in Marion County. I was thrilled to do this. I do not know a lot about fish. My first real Florida fishing experience was only after living here for four years. But with a little research, fish are very artsy!
These metal cutouts are designed by Kustom Glass Awards in Crystal River and then handed to me for the details. They were presented at the final weigh in to the winners of four divisions: Trout, Redfish, Cobia and Catfish. This year all four divisions were won by women! You Go Girls!