Pulling Back the Curtain

Artists begin with the same tools and a creative spark, but in the finished results, “we see the magic of creativity,” says Northwest Watercolor Society (NWWS) Acting President, Deborah Roskopf. And such is the case for the 95 water media paintings now on display through through June 30, 2023, as part of the NWWS 2023 Waterworks Online Membership Exhibition. 

Selecting the 95 watermedia paintings from 426 entries was juror David R. Smith, award-winning watercolorist and signature member of the American Watercolor Society and National Watercolor Society. Impressed by the quality and range of works submitted, Smith was drawn by technical expertise and whether the painting held his attention and elicited an emotion.

“Transported” (watercolor, 19 x 13 in.)

First place of $1,000 cash was presented to Janine Helton for her Transported. “This painting shows the amazing transparent qualities of watercolor,” Smith said. The drips give the painting a creative spontaneity as though the artist threw it together. “I’m impressed with the skill of the artist. Everything is deliberate to give it that wow factor and she’s captured an expression that makes me wonder what the subject is looking at.”

“G.i.O” (watercolor, 15 x 22 in.)

Second place of $750 cash went to Giovanni Balzarani for G.i.O. “This painting has control yet feels light to me with the stunning reflections, and how it moves from cool to warm. The detail shows a dedication to the painting.”

“Girl with Orange Umbrella” (watercolor)

Denise Marshall was awarded $500 for third place for Girl with Orange Umbrella. “I love this painting of wet-on-wet-and-more-wet allowing blossoms and color to connect. The artist lets the medium work its magic. You get the feeling the artist had fun painting this piece.” Smith rewarded Marshall for “taking risks like this.”

Smith awarded 13 other artists in cash and merchandise provided by NWWS patrons totaling over $10,000. He thanked the NWWS volunteers for all the detail work they put into the show and also the brave artists who entered and shared their talent ending with, “I love all of ‘em.”

The NWWS 2023 Annual Waterworks Online Membership Exhibition is available online at www.nwws.org through June 30, 2023. All of the watermedia artwork is for sale by contacting NWWS Treasurer Shirley Jordan at [email protected]. Of special note: the artist receives 75% of the sales price.


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