IWE is managed by IWE Director
Lynn Rodriguez
The International Watermedia Exhibition (IWE) is one of two juried exhibitions held annually, the other being the Annual Members Exhibit (AME). Whereas AME is open to only WAS-H members, IWE showcases the excellence of watermedia artists from as far away as Australia, Bulgaria, China, Germany, India and the Netherlands. Selected by a renowned juror and judge, the paintings receive exposure in a month-long, open-to-the-public gallery exhibit as well as an online exhibit that lasts through the end of the year. Winning participants receive substantial cash awards.
48TH International Watermedia Exhibition
We are honored to welcome internationally acclaimed artist and designer Stephen Zhang as the 48th International Watermedia Exhibition juror. An award-winning watercolorist, Stephen’s creative exploration has spanned diverse projects and international collaborations. His works have been showcased in prestigious exhibitions, including the American Watercolor Society, Watercolor USA, the Chinese National Art Exhibition, Art Olympia in Japan, and even the U.S. Embassy in Equatorial Guinea. In addition to his artistic practice, Stephen is an Assistant Professor at the University of North Texas, where he shares his expertise with the next generation of artists. His global perspective and deep technical knowledge make him an ideal juror, and we are thrilled to have him for IWE 2025.
Interested in learning about the 48th IWE in 2025? Prospectus -- 48th IWEx.pdf. |
Workshop Highlight: Expressive Watercolor Portrait Based on Solid Foundation
In addition to his role as juror, Stephen Zhang will lead an exciting four-day workshop (March 8-11, 2025) focused on capturing the lively essence of portrait subjects in watercolor. This workshop will guide students through creating dynamic portraits, combining structured technique with spontaneous brushwork. Artists will explore both detailed and sketchy approaches, practicing the balance between control and free-flowing expression.
Stephen’s teaching style emphasizes mastering the fundamentals while encouraging creative experimentation. This workshop is perfect for artists seeking to bring their portraits to life through vibrant, expressive brushstrokes, while still maintaining a strong foundation. Expect hands-on practice and thoughtful feedback that will help you unlock new artistic possibilities.
Don’t miss this opportunity to work with an internationally celebrated artist. Registration opens on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. Mark your calendars, as seats are limited!
Vladislav Yeliseyev judges the show on Saturday, March 2: |
A full house for Vlad's demo on Sunday, March 3: |
2024 IWE Award Winners |
1st Place | 2nd Place | 3rd Place |
Mehrdad Sedghi "Ode to Joy" with Joy Watercolor on Paper Anaheim, CA $800 | Nishita Jain Early Winter Snow Watercolor on Paper Columbia, MD $1,400 | Dean Mitchell Chavarria Watercolor on Paper Tampa, FL $17,500 |
Odette Ruben Memorial Award | Margaret Scott Bock Award John James Lightning Rod Watercolor on Paper Virginia Beach, VA $1,200 | Jack Bowen Award Adam Zhao Mr. Brawn, Judge Emeritus Watercolor on Paper Houston, TX $2,500 | E.T. Kraycirik Memorial Award Kathleen Conover Contemplating Flight Watercolor on Paper Marquette, MI $2,800 (sold) |
Merit Awards |
Mohammad Bhatti Shadows of Agony Watermedia on Paper Richmond, TX $1,000 (sold) |
| Kathleen Durdin Sunset Stroll Watercolor on Paper Tampa, FL $750 (sold) |
Chris Krupinski Feeling Left Out Watercolor on Paper Maineville, OH $5,000 | Irene Sheytman Dream City-3 Watercolor on Paper Houston, TX $550 | Philip Weigand Mission San Jose Watercolor on Paper Houston, TX Not for Sale |
David Smith Plein Air, 9:30-11am, Windy, Rainy, Luther Burbank Watercolor on Paper Seattle, WA $6,000 | Erik Sprohge World Houston Watercolor on Paper Houston, TX $900 |
Z Feng In the Wood Watercolor on Paper Radford, VA $980 | Keiko Yasuoka Under the Sunlight Watercolor on Paper Houston, TX Not for Sale |
To view IWE Catalogs, click on the links below: |