Spring Art Expo 2018: Awards Presented at NWFA Gallery (submitted by Judith Ulseth)
Photo Contest Results
The results of the Northwoods Friends of the Arts (NWFA) Photo Contest and the 50/50 raffle were announced during the June 29, 2018, reception. The annual photo contest, “Your Best Shot,” recognized talented photographers in student and adult categories.
Student Award
The “Student Award” was awarded to 5-year-old Vera Bryson for her photo “Featherly Friend in the Sun.” Vera received a $25 prize for her submission, which showcased her creative eye at such a young age.
Adult Award
Carol Bowman received the “Adult Award” for her photo “Tulips.” Her photograph stood out among the adult entries, and she received a $75 award.
Judging Process
The award-winning photographers were selected anonymously by a panel of three non-participating judges: Alan Wiermaa, Pam Wettering, and Bailey Conger. The judges reviewed all photo entries displayed in numbered order, considering three key criteria: originality, technical merit, and artistic value.
People’s Choice Award
The third award, the “People’s Choice Award,” was decided by the visitors to the NWFA Gallery in Cook during the month of June. The winner was “Bird On A Stick,” a photo of a Northern Saw-whet Owl by Lauren Nelson. This award included a $50 cash prize and framing for the winning photo.
Contest Participation and Prizes
Adult contest participants paid a $10 fee for each photo entry, while student photographers could enter without a fee. All winners received a family membership to NWFA and an invitation to display up to three photos in the gallery for an entire month.
50/50 Raffle
The Spring Art Expo 2018 concluded at the Finale Reception, where Carol Bowman drew the winning tickets for the 50/50 raffle. The first name drawn had the option to choose between cash (50% of the raffle ticket sales) or a beautifully framed portrait of an eagle donated by photographer Carol Bowman. The winners of the 2018 raffle were H.D. Johnston and Donna Peterson.
Spring Art Expo Exhibition
The Spring Art Expo began on June 8th, showcasing the work of forty-six local artists at the NWFA Gallery. In addition, thirty-seven local businesses from Cook, Tower, Orr, and along Highways 24 and 53 participated in the event, highlighting the region’s artistic talent.
Gallery Information
The NWFA Gallery, located next to Dream Weaver Salon in Cook, is open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information about NWFA and its events, visit the non-profit organization’s website at NWFA.