The awards for the January 2024 PleinAir Salon Art Competition were announced on February 29th. The selections were made by judge, Lisa Skelly, artist and owner of Huse Skelly Gallery. The overall and category winners will now be included in the judging for the 13th Annual PleinAir Salon Competition being awarded in May 2024.
FIRST PLACE
Brian Blood, Parallel Parking in Paris
Oil, 12×16 in.
“First of all, this painting feels like it belongs alongside the French Impressionist paintings at the Musee d’orsay! Brian has expertly composed this scene like one of Vivaldi’s masterpieces. The exciting play of light behind this historic bridge guides us through the arches and playfully envelopes the long boat that is waiting to take us on a cruise down the Seine river. We can escape into Brian’s painting because he has expertly orchestrated a masterpiece with wonderful light throughout the scene.
I wish this one was in my own collection”
SECOND PLACE
Derek Penix, Icy Brook and Powder Banks
Oil, 30×30 in.
“This piece by Derek Penix is a gorgeous peaceful snowy scene. The skill with which he has designed this composition keeps you exploring the painting, especially the delicate, subtle shifts of values in the snowy banks. This painting is incredibly nuanced with his beautiful brushwork and decisions he has made in guiding your eye to explore this dreamy place. Derik masterfully painted this snowy wonderland. Even if it is a cold day, he has painted the warm sun so well that you can feel the sun on your face and it invites us to stay longer and enjoy this magical place.”
THIRD PLACE
Dan Marshall, Paris Cafe
Watercolor, 12×16 in.
“I chose this piece by Daniel Marshall for his exquisite drawing skills and dynamic composition. It has a restrained beauty and it is also what he leaves out of the painting really allows the viewer to create a story and imagine themselves in this beautiful Parisian Cafe. This expertly painted piece transports you on an adventure where there is sure to be amazing food, wine and music. Incredible! Or as the French say, Incredible.”
CATEGORY WINNERS
Each category award winner is now entered into the Annual Competition. Judges will review all the winners from the 13th Annual PleinAir Salon, and we will award over $22,000 at the Annual Competition held in May 2024.
CATEGORY HONORABLE MENTIONS
The category honorable mention recipients are eligible to re-enter their paintings into future competitions.
TOP 100 FINALISTS
Each month all the entries are reviewed and scored by a judge. The paintings with the highest scores become the Top 100 Finalists. (In the event of tied scores, there may be more than 100). The awards for the monthly competition are selected from this group of finalist.
Click here to view all the entrants to the January PleinAir Salon Art Competition.
