Paint, Print and Drawing Annual 2026

A juried show is both rewarding and challenging, for all parties  involved.

I’ve been on both sides of the coin numerous times - enough to know that this is a highly subjective, inexact process that inevitably brings both joy and disappointment.

For this show, the reward was the pleasure of seeing, being surprised by, and engaging in so much beautiful work by so many unfamiliar (to me, at least) artists.

The challenge, in this case: the large number submissions, coupled with limited gallery space, necessitated the elimination of nearly half the works. This was especially difficult because of the consistently high level of quality in execution and professionalism in presentation.

Some jurors, especially in the case of themed shows, approach the process with a very specific vision or agenda. Because of the open nature of this show, my goal was to get out of the way and let the work speak - to honor the gallery with a balance of all media, without prejudice toward subject matter or favor toward any individual. This was made easier by the great diversity of vision and approach.

If there was any method or defining criteria for selection, it was “Does this person have a distinct point of view? Is what moved them to make this, and share this, coming through loud and clear?”; So, in some cases, a stronger (or louder) personal vision with less technical expertise trumped a piece with flawless execution and less distinct (or quieter) voice. The problem with this approach is that those quiet works take longer to reveal themselves - much longer than the hours it takes to select works for a show - but their payoff can be much deeper - just like that movie or book you weren’t sure you liked, but is still with you months or years later, even as memories of a summer blockbuster or hit single have long faded. Again, this is a highly subjective, inexact process.

I hope the end result reflects the richness of our arts community in an engaging way.

Congratulations to the award winners. The idea of “BEST” in a field as personal, intimate, and subjective as the arts is dicey and almost always guaranteed to provoke - art is, if anything, NOT a race. The 6 pieces recognized each display the trifecta of distinctive personal, vision coupled with considered presentation and inspired command of materials. They will not be everyone’s cup of tea, and if they do not own the 3 traits above in the traditional sense, they share their passion, presence, and stopping power.

Congratulations to all who entered and put your work forward. It’s a time-tested way to get exposure and feedback. Regardless of the outcome, don’t stop entering, and - more importantly - don’t stop believing in your work. Thank you for sharing.

Finally, thank you to Exhibitions Director Jason Fong for the invitation to jury the show, and to the South County Art Association for supporting our rich, diverse, and welcoming arts communities.

-Shawn Kenney