Piccolo Spoleto Outdoor Art Exhibit - May 29, 2011 - Day 3 -GUEST POST by Laurie Meyer

Guest Post by Artist Laurie Meyer

2011 Second Place Award Winner  

On Awards

I have judged a few shows, and I have been judged. It is a difficult process to select paintings and assign ribbons to them; it is also difficult, if not impossible, to simply paint for a judge. In being on both sides of the judging process, I learned important guidelines.

First, an artist should never paint a piece to suit the personal style of the juror. I have heard people say, "The judge is an abstract painter - I"ll do an abstract for the show!" A good judge recognizes excellence in a work no matter the medium or genre.

Secondly, although winning an award is fabulous (I'm not going to lie!), an artist should not feel dejected if the work wasn't recognized. I once heard Neil Patterson say, half jokingly, half seriously, "Always remember, if you win an award, you are not as good as you think you are, and if you don't win an award, you're not as bad as you think you are!"

Third,  strive each day, Artists, for excellence in defining your own personal style to the highest degree of your ability. You may love and admire different styles of excellent artists, but be careful not to confuse yourself by "jumping all over the board". Trust your intuitive talent and refine it with passion. Be consistent while allowing room for growth. Understand what it is that you love and what moves you internally and visually. Your authenticity will begin to develop, and it will show in your work.

Lastly, I'd like to warn painters on their journey to becoming authentic artists to not attach the outcome of their work to its resemblance of the photo reference, if not painting from life. This is an issue I continually see with students and beginning painters.  Photo references are helpful - but at some point the painter should put the photograph away and allow the painter's voice to shine through.  Instead of pouring educational time into copying a photograph, the artist should study color relationships, understand the importance of values and edges and strive to gain a greater sophistication in his or her colors, neutrals and brushwork.

Stay true to yourself, strive to be authentic and work every day to be professional.  You will be recognized!