‘The Leap’ takes top honors in RAA show
“The Leap,” an acrylic on canvas by artist Guy Joy, has won “Best of Show” honors for the Redwood Art Association Spring Exhibition.
“The leaping boy leapt right into ‘Best of Show’ effortlessly,” said exhibition judge John Hewitt. “It has excellent technique and wonderful spirit of a young man leaping into the future he sees as bright. We need kids like that.”
The first place award went to Doug Freie for his acrylic, “At the Beach.”
“Freie’s paintings have rhythm and color with strong shapes which are my highest rated principles of design,” said Hewitt. “I like the emotional content of the figures and animals showing life and quirky fun. To win a high award, a painting must grab the viewer and make them feel something. Freie’s paintings do that instantly.”
The “Best of Photography Award” went to Rick Gustafson for his “Untitled Reflection
along the 101 Corridor.” The digital photograph was created using intentional camera movement techniques.
Other awards were given to Louise Bacon-Ogden, David Boston, Erica Brooks, Jay Brown, Debra HollandOlsen, Jon Exley, John Jameton, Kjerstine Jennings, Sara Kimber, Jennifer Liu, Amanda Morettini, Cheryl Rau, Paul Rickard, William Pierson, Michael Robnett, Barbara Saul, Giselle Strauss and Patty Yancey.
Hewitt is a nationally recognized watercolor artist and instructor. He started the Mendocino Open Paint Out with the Mendocino
Art Center in 2013, and it has grown into a major art event on the West Coast. Retired from a medical career, Hewitt now devotes full time to painting and leads workshops in Europe and the U.S.
Businesses and individuals donated cash and gift certificates valued at more than $3,000 for the awards. The exhibition can be viewed online at www. redwoodart.us.
The RAA is dedicated to the creation of art as an indispensable part of life and the economy of Humboldt County. New members are welcome and may join on the RAA website.
“The leaping boy leapt right into ‘Best of Show’ effortlessly. It has excellent technique and wonderful spirit of a young man leaping into the future he sees as bright. We need kids like that.” — John Hewitt, exhibition judge