Today was an exciting day for me. We had the opening of our group exhibition themed The Outdoors, this afternoon. While most of my family stayed home with a cold, my youngest son and I picked up my mom, who also has a piece in this show, and headed up to the Anton Art Center in Mt. Clemens for the opening. My son is the subject in the photograph I entered so he got a lot of attention which he loved.

After mingling and viewing all the amazing artwork on display the juror, Lori Zurvalec, spoke about her impressions of the show and what she was looking for in the art she selected. As she announced the first couple of awards, I agreed with her choices of these superb artworks.

Unexpectedly, the next honorable mention award she announced was my own! I have entered art in the Anton shows for several years and consider it an honor just to get into the show. The level of talent in these groups keeps me sharpening my skills to stay on par with them. This was the first time I have received an award and I was shocked and happy. It feels nice when your work is recognized by others.

And good new for my mom as well, her piece sold, to the juror herself.

I’ll be back at Anton next week for the opening of the Michigan Annual LI on Saturday. Hopefully my family will be healthy enough to attend that one. It is nice being able to talk with my fellow artists and see what everyone is creating.

Have you ever entered artwork into a juried show?