Gretchen Olberding
Every artist walks into an exhibition in which they were juried, hoping to see that elusive award given among so many outstanding artworks. When you finally see one on your own submission, you do a silent fist pump, and a quiet “Yes!” comes out.
That exhilarating moment happened to me last night at the Scottsdale Artists School Reception for its “Best and Brightest” show, running now until March 31. This show is exclusive to those who have taken workshops at the school and those students go on to create their own original works which they can submit for the next three years. The show is juried and artists from all over the nation compete. Many are already professional artists. I was fortunate to get two artworks juried in and totally thrilled to get a second place in the Pastels category.
I can credit my growth to the professional artists we have hired at the Creative Arts building in the Art Club. I had painted for many years before, but I made a real commitment here in Arizona after we retired. I often commit myself to a “30 paintings in 30 days” challenge. The process has become more satisfying than the result, but when that result is validated by supportive (and purchasing) friends and a national judge, it feels pretty sweet.