I am pleased to have participated with many talented Minnesota artists at the Minnesota State Fair (August 26th-September 6, 2022). It has been over 10 years since I last exhibited in the The Fine Art Center at the Fairgrounds. I reconnected with old friends, colleagues and many many surrealist sympathizers.
The evening was full of surprise and multiple honors. I won 5 awards and ribbons (which will by the way accompany the painting someday to it's someday forever home).
First Place, oil/acrylic/mix media category at the Minnesota State
Minnesota State Fair Foundation Paul S Kramer Award
Minnesota Citizens for the Arts Great State of Minnesota
Ron Merchant Award for Oil Painting
C Crist Delmonico Memorial Award
I chose to exhibit, Summer Goddess oil on Belgian linen 62"x 42". Stretched with with sinew thread on stained oak frame.
Here's a short video I made while preparing for delivery:
Special thanks to my muse and creative friend Keondra Kelly who so graciously modeled for me and inspired me during the pandemic.
Keondra is a talented artist who can be viewed on Instagram as both "radpeachie" and "spookeondra". She is a force with a following of over a million followers. I am blessed to call her my friend.
Below are a few press announcement from the exhibition. Many thanks to the organizations that gifted me honors and recognition.
This was my all time favorite piece I have seen at the fair. I could not step away!