by Paula Fowler, Gallery Co-Director

There are few things closer to the hearts of WAS-H members than putting paint on a surface, so the theme of our February show, Matters of the Heart, inspired thoughts of a vast array of subjects.  The challenge for our judge for this show, Laura Spector, was to pick just a few from the 50 entries.  She met this challenge and shared with us her energy, enthusiasm and thoughtful evaluations.  

Laura is a true treasure of the Houston art community.  She is a Fellow of the New York Foundation for the Arts, an Individual Grant recipient of the Houston Art Alliance and has recently been awarded Artist-in-Residence by the Joan Mitchell Foundation.  Her work has been displayed in Chicago, Germany and at numerous venues in Houston and has been published in Harvard Review, Ripley ’s Believe It or Not and the book The Real Real Thing: The Model in the Mirror of Art.   Laura teaches at Glasscock School of Continuing Education at Rice University, the Art League, WAS-H and at her Winter Street Studio.

Laura ’s choice for first place was Alison Hendry ’s  “Unconditional Love” which depicts her daughter hugging their beloved cat, who is just barely tolerating the hug.  Laura said the work was  “technically gorgeous”.  It has rich textures and the realistic look on the face of the cat that is masterfully done.  

Second place was awarded to Tamara Kontrimas for her  “Hornet ’s Nest”.  Laura was drawn to the strong drawing, subtle use of color and the strength of the concept.  She was intrigued by the image of the heart-shaped nest that seems to have seen some rough times juxtaposed against the stinging insects.

Daniela Werneck ’s  “Gone with the Wind” was chosen for the third-place ribbon.  Laura was attracted to the narrative nature of the painting that was enhanced by the volume and texture of the billowing fabric and the strong composition that positioned the fragile figure against an emotionally colored orange sky.  

THE WINNERS ARE: 

First Place:  Alison Hendry,  “Unconditional Love”

Second Place:  Tamara Kontrimas,  “Hornet ’s Nest”

Third Place:  Daniela Werneck,  “Gone With The Wind”

HONORABLE MENTIONS:
Elizabeth Wagar ,  “No Love Lost Between Them”
Robert Ruhmann, ”Banks of the Guadalupe”
Les McDonald, Jr,  “Barnyard”
Sarah Kitigawa,  “With an Open Heart”
Susan Giannantonio,  “Chautauqua Nocturn”

Congratulations to all our award winners and thanks to all of our February artists and volunteers for making this such an enjoyable show.  

See winning paintings - Home