JUROR’S NOTES: Ava Ghayoumi

Judging the Faces and Figures competition was a rewarding and challenging experience. I was amazed by the diversity and quality of the paintings submitted, which displayed a range of styles, mediums, and expressions. I lookded for artworks that showed a personal and unique vision, a high level of skill and craftsmanship, and a clear and effective communication of the human form. After much consideration, I selected these artworks as the winners of the competitions.

“Baby Hazel” captivated me with its soft beauty. The artist used a watercolor medium in the best way to capture and create a delicate softness of an infant. The painting showed a remarkable control of the medium, as the artist used warm and neutral colors to create mood, depth and detail. The painting also expressed a tender and intimate emotion, inviting the viewer to share the bond between the infant and the artist.