Award winners for the Juried Riffe Lobby DAAL Member Show
Show Chair: Robie Benve
Juror: Rod Hayslip
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Juror’s Remarks:
Thank you for the invitation to judge this wonderful show of the DAAL! I am truly impressed, not only with the quality of
the artwork, but with the diversity of media, materials and subject matter that was submitted by the members.
112 pieces were submitted. This show location permitted only a small percentage for selection, less than 25% from the
total submitted — a very difficult task indeed. Please keep this in mind if your work was not accepted. Also remember
that every juried show contains an element of subjectivity, no matter how diligent the judge may be in the selection
process.
I do encourage you to see this show in person for it is there that you can observe the actual effect presented by each
creator’s piece. There are great lessons to be had from seeing diverse works of art side-by-side in different light
conditions.
I congratulate the DAAL on an excellent show! Enjoy the wonderful space and the diverse talents displayed by your
fellow artists.
Rod Hayslip
Juror
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AWARDS:
Honorable Mention:
“On City Park in the Village” by Pat Howard
Wonderful edge control and strong parallel diagonals make this an exciting composition. A note of mystery adds to its
allure.
Honorable Mention: “Butterfly Purse” by Paula Carter-Jones
This whimsical piece is uplifting and full of energy. The jewels added to the frame are welcome additions. And that the
butterfly overlaps the frame is essential to its over all success!
3rd Place: “Chrome Reverse Reflection” by Marvin Daniels
When viewed in person there is a real synergy between this painting and the framing and mounting choices made,
that cannot be observed from a digit image. The painting itself presents contrasts between the chrome moon wheel
scene and white wall tire that create a trompe-l’oil experience. The chrome distorted scene presents an open narrative
beside the abstract color swirls at the edge of the hub cab. Many different visual elements work together for a
very interesting piece.
2nd Place: “Yosemite Valley from Taft Point” by Jeff Sagar
Setting, time of day and weather join up to form a spectacular scene. Compositionally, it’s hard to miss the converging
diagonals in the clouds that counterpoint the diagonals in the geology on the right side. The hard line of the midpoint place horizon is completely tamed by the monolithic shape on the left. Likewise, the numerous sharp details are
balanced by the softness sweeping in from the left on the valley floor and distant cliff walls. The power of the human
element is obvious here — not only adding scale, but also spinning a philosophical story. Fine art photography isn’t
simply about technical expertise or being at the right place at the right time, in my opinion. Just like other art mediums
it’s about putting in the work — often tireless hours — weeding through your ideas and failed efforts and then recognizing compositional magic when it happens.
1st Place: “Erewhon” by Steven Fisher
Oftentimes a piece is at its best in person, as opposed to viewing its digital image. This is truly the case with “Erewhon”.
This small piece exemplifies my philosophy on publicly displayed art: no matter the size, the creation should beckon
from across the room and when viewed up close reward you with visual treats. I spent an extended time marveling at
its optical energy. In person, the vibration and 3D illusion are a bit spellbinding. It would be interesting to see if these
qualities can be successfully scaled up in size.
Best of Show: “Sun Spots” by Kathy Ludlam
This complex interior scene features nuance and drama in its lighting and intersecting line elements, while also
displaying a deft hand at using neutral colors. Subtle temperature shifts are skillfully executed within the shapes. The
placement of the focal area, the sunlit end of the sofa, far to one side creates a more interesting composition, and is
balanced by the whole of the other parts. There is a sense here that the artist is focusing on painting shapes, not
objects. Well done!
