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EXETER —With two shows happening in downtown Exeter in the month of May, the Seacoast Artist Association in Exeter awarded five artist winners this month.
Jayne McPherson of Exeter won Best in Show at their May members show “Primavera: The Art of Spring” for her stunning watercolor “Bougainvillea.” She told us that this painting is particularly significant to her as it is from a photo of the pots of bougainvillea on her patio when she was teaching and living in Singapore. “I am so grateful for this honor! The SAA has given me the venue to exhibit my watercolor paintings and the encouragement to pursue my dream. Many thanks to the member artists whose works and words inspired me to continue to push through the challenges of watercolor painting.” There was a tie for the People’s Choice Award, oil painting “Morning at the Coast” by Bill Mensching and “Flowers Imagined” an oil by Jane Davis Copp, both chosen by visitors and art collectors.
This members show was held to benefit the SAA’s scholarship fund which helps local public high school seniors who are moving on to study art in college or university. There was artwork by this year’s scholarship winners displayed at the show which runs weekends, 12-4 p.m. through May 21. Music was provided at the Second Friday reception by Exeter violinist Danillo (Dacha) Thurber. There will be a winter holiday members show to benefit the scholarship fund in November. You can also donate at seacoastartist.org.
Down the street at their home base, the SAA gallery, where their popular theme show is held every month, Carol Kuzminski’s watercolor “Sun Kissed” won Best in Show at “In Full Bloom.”
The People’s Choice Award was won by Zoe Brooke for her whimsical acrylic painting “Luck in the Garden.” About this painting she told us, “This year, 2023, is the Chinese year of the Rabbit. It is said to be a year of good fortune, kindness, and caution; a tender year with a gentle spirit where softness and vulnerability are rewarded with abundance and grace. To me, this painting represents looking forward into the hope and promise of the future, finding ‘Luck in the Garden’ and uncovering blessings hidden just beyond our gaze. It is a testament to the magic and beauty that surrounds us if we just have the courage and patience to truly look.” Music at the reception was provided by vocalist and SAA watercolor artist Cheryl Sager and her husband Neal Zweig on guitar.
The SAA theme shows are open to all. Being a member gives you a discounted rate so it is always a good time to join. The next theme show is “Sunrise, Sunset, and Moonlit Eves.” Drop off is Sat., May 27, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Please do not drop off before. Artwork must be ready to hang as per the requirements which can be found at seacoastartist.org along with the form to be brought with your pieces.
The Seacoast Artist Association’s next Second Friday artist reception will be held on June 9, 5-7 p.m., and the public is invited. The gallery is at 130 Water Street in historic downtown Exeter. Hours are Wed.-Sat., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sun., 1-4 p.m. Parking is free. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
