An online Art Show for Subscribers of
From My Perspective
an online colored pencil magazine
created by Ann Kullberg

Generous Prizes awarded by our Sponsors:

"Marbleous!!!!!"
14 x 20
Gretchen Parker

"Mollie"
7 x 5
Vicki Wright

"Hamilton Winter"
14 x 17
Diane Thompson

Our Juror - Elizabeth Patterson

Winner of  Best Of Show in the 5th Annual Member Show

Originally from Pennsylvania , Elizabeth Patterson earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at Minneapolis College of Art and Design and relocated to the Los Angeles area in 1979. She has worked in numerous mediums with a strong proclivity for graphite and color pencil rendering. Her work, which has ranged from abstract to contemporary realism, has won recognition from a very early age.

In 1986, Ms. Patterson traveled to Hawaii where she discovered the magnificence of the undersea world and its resident creatures. The visual impressions of that experience sparked an on-going fascination of sea life that in time inspired the artist to resurrect her art career after a thirteen-year hibernation. Ms. Patterson continues to expand her subject matter and demonstrate an admirable mastery of her chosen medium of color pencil. Her work has won critical acclaim and numerous awards including the prestigious honor of signature status in the Colored Pencil Society of America .

Juror's Statement

First, it is an honor to judge the Annual Membership Show. As always, I find it just astonishing to view the range of technique that is possible with this medium. My first pass through all of the pieces quickly revealed how difficult it would be to select awards with so many accomplished drawings. There are, however, certain things I look for in a work of art and when the job was done, I felt satisfied with the results. No doubt, another judge would see things differently. Fortunately, the next show always presents another opportunity for each of us with a different set of eyes.

Putting your work out there to be judged and to stand along with the work of your creative peers takes courage, and for this I commend each artist. In judging this show, I was looking for the following: exceptional technical expertise, excellence in the use of color and value, strength in lights and darks, and successful composition. Three other criteria come into play. (1) I am always drawn to work that succeeds in conveying movement, which can be accomplished any number of ways (lighting, pencil strokes, or compositionally, for example). (2) I look for the artist who successfully takes risks. (3) I look for the work that transcends photo “copying” to the use of photos for reference in making a work of fine art.

The work chosen for Best of Show is an example of some of the highest skill level possible with pencil in my opinion. When I look at this piece I am compelled to reach out and touch, so successful is the rendering of the textures. It is perfection in its detail, yet wonderfully successful overall in composition and lighting.

First Place piece, “Coffee Shop 4” is a bold composition juxtaposed with soft light, soft texture and color. It is an unusual approach of loose style and simplicity that we don't often see with color pencil. Compliments to this artist for her bravery, and originality.

In Second Place , Gemma Gylling has created a splendid portrait of Gulliver. I am in awe of the fur drawers! The skill shown in this piece is exceptional. I am especially fond of his muzzle flopped on the floor, his droopy layers of skin, and the great effort keeping those eyes open – beautifully conveyed so that the viewer really feels the girth of this animal.

Third Place winner, “Cat in Shadow” demonstrates an amazing ability to show movement with the stroke of a pencil. Soft light and negative space are very effective in conveying three-dimensionality. This work brings a fresh, inventive take on a common subject.

Congratulations to all of the Honorable Mention winners, and to each of you who submitted work. I wish you much success in your artistic pursuits.

Sincerely,  Elizabeth Patterson

Visit Elizabeth's Web Site