The 47th International Watermedia Exhibition (IWE) is on display in the gallery, a show about which judge Vlad Yeliseyev observed, “. . . rivals the American Watercolor Society show”.

From an initial 273 paintings submitted by 135 artists from 6 countries and more than half the US states, eighty-eight chosen masterworks adorn the gallery through the end of the month. A total of $10,000 in 17 cash awards were given, and WAS-H is proud that 7 of the awards were earned by WAS-H members.

Here’s a brief look at the opening festivities (Video) and don’t miss the opportunity to see the exhibition up close and in person until March 30, 2024! 

1st Place

Mehrdad Sedghi

"'Ode to Joy' with Joy"

Judge's comments: "Seemingly simple, but at the same time it gives me insight into the character. Masterfully executed with naturalness. Excellent rendering of light, where the light travels right up the painting."

2nd Place

Nishita Jain

"Early Winter Snow"

Judge's comments: "Museum quality piece. The composition of colors evoke the feeling of early winter. This painting depicts nature as given by God. This is so hard to do. Absolutely stunning!"

3rd Place

Dean Mitchell

"Chavarria" 

Judge's comments: "This shows masterfulness of composition and the medium. There's depth in the darks and transition of color in the face. This piece conveys character as art should."

Odette Rubin Award

Laurie Hammons

"Flowers for Barbara"

Judge's comments: "Naive presentation and composition that works really well. Beautiful brushstrokes and color presentation. It is like Cezanne at his best!"

Margaret Scott Bock Award

Adam Zhao

"Mr. Brawn, Judge Emeritus"

Judge's comments: "I love this work! The hand is expertly done and subdued. Your attention goes right to the face. It is translated just right."

Jack Bowen Award

John James 

"Lightning Rod"

Judge's comments: "Wonderful edges! I love that the border has depth but is not black. Beautifully composed."

ET Kraycirik Memorial Award

Kathleen Conover

"Contemplating Flight"

Judge's comments: "This one captivates me. It evokes a feeling of familiarity, like an artist's loft. It transports me. The cropping along the top gives immediacy to the work. The three colors work very well."

In 2024, we had five members who achieved a new WAS-H status.

New Signature Status:

Fontaine Jacobs

Michele Tabor Kimbrough

New Signature Elite Status: 

Alison Hendry

Irene Sheytman

Larry Spitzberg

What is Signature and Signature Elite* Status?

Signature and Signature Elite status are honors bestowed to those artists who have been selected for participation in the Watercolor Art Society-Houston's International Watermedia Exhibition (IWE) for multiple exhibition years and were active members of WAS-H at the time their eligible entries were submitted.

In addition to the certificate presented at the annual awards ceremony, each artist with Signature Status may add the designation WAS-H to their professional competencies. 

Signature Status = artist exhibited eligible entry in three IWEs.

Signature Elite Status = artist has exhibited eligible entry in five or more IWEs.