Ah Haa: Regional Art Exhibition

12 Jan Ah Haa: Regional Art Exhibition

Selected artists exhibit in Daniel Tucker Gallery and vie for cash prizes.

Andy Warhol once quipped that every person will have 15 minutes of fame. The Ah Haa School for the Arts would like to help make the legendary Pop artist good on his word. And, for selected regional artists, the school will expand those 15 minutes to the entire month of March.

Jill in the Box from 1st Regional Art Show.

Ah Haa School announces the 2nd annual Juried Exhibition of Regional Artists: Best of 2014, slated to open Thursday, March 5, in the Daniel Tucker Gallery at The Depot.

Consider this an official call to all regional artists to make good on their New Year’s resolutions and submit work to the show. All media – painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, printing, fiber, and metals – will be accepted as long as the work is current (completed in 2014 or early 2015). Artists have until Feb. 17 to submit digital images of up to three pieces along with an online application form. Selected artists will be announced February 20 and work is due at the school by March 2. The show opens during Art Walk Thursday, March 5 and remains on display through the end of the month.

According to Ah Haa Executive Director Judy Kohin, after the success of last year’s inaugural regional art exhibition, the school was inspired to make the show an annual event and provide more regular exposure to a multitude of artists and their work.

“I don’t know how many pieces will be selected this year,” Kohin said. “Last year the juror had over 100 submissions and selected 72 artists. It was a very full show – and awesome.”

To help inspire artists, there are also cash prizes. Camille Silverman, executive director of The Art Center in Grand Junction, will jury the show and select the first-, second- and third-place winners, who will be awarded $500, $250 and $100 respectively. The public will also vote on their favorite piece on opening night and the winner of the People’s Choice Award will receive $100.

Kohin is excited Silverman agreed to jury this year’s show, because she feels there is a reciprocal benefit, with Silverman getting to know some regional artists and regional artists learning about art opportunities through The Art Center.

“The Grand Junction Arts Center has exploded in the last few years,” Kohin said. “This is a great way for artists to introduce themselves to her.”

While the Regional Art Show is a great opportunity for artists, the greatest benefactors may be the community at large, suggested Kohin.

“There is really no place where you can see this much art – 70 pieces – by different artists,” Kohin said. “The exhibition showcases exciting work, new work and it brings the entire regional arts community to one place. It makes for a very dynamic show.”

It’s also no secret that the “one place” Kohin is referring to, The Daniel Tucker Gallery at Telluride’s historic Depot, is a spectacular venue to view art. The long rectangular gallery is grounded by beautiful hardwood floors, enveloped by windows inviting in natural light, and framed by high ceilings. It’s a beautiful place for art and community.

Woman in a Chair, 1st Ah Haa Regional Art Show

The Ah Haa School eagerly awaits submissions.

For more information regarding the 2nd Annual Juried Exhibition of Regional Artists: Best of 2014 and how to submit work, go here or call school at 970/728-3886.