By Darian Rahnis, Staff Writer
Artwork referencing the human figure was showcased in the Figurative Drawing and Painting Competition in the Lore Degenstein Gallery on Oct. 28.
The national, juried visual art competition and exhibition was open to two-dimensional figurative artists over the age of 18. Different mediums accepted included paintings, drawings and prints.
The juror, Alia El-Bermani, announced six awards with cash prizes during the opening reception. El-Bermani is a contemporary figurative painter who lives and teaches in Raleigh, North Carolina.
First prize was given to Ricky Mujica, who attended the gallery opening. The other artists who received awards are Annie Murphy Robinson, Cindy Rizza, J. Adam Davis, Erick Von Hoffmann and August Burns.
While there were 365 entries in the competition, the 69 works that were chosen to be displayed in the gallery were carefully picked for their craftsmanship and meaning, including one painting by Susquehanna sophomore Quinn Evans.
Dan Olivetti, the gallery director, explained that it was an honor for Evans’ work to be chosen as a finalist because the competition is large and includes the entire country.
The gallery quickly filled with an audience of all ages on opening night. Students and professors mingled and discussed the variety of artwork that was on display.
Senior Rachel Bockol, who attended the gallery opening, was intrigued by the different styles of artwork that were on display.
“I was really impressed by the one that was of the fire. The people weren’t the main focus. I think the focus was more on the nature,” Bockol said.
According to Bockol, she believed this exhibit had a greater impact on the audience and a wider variety of works than past exhibits.
Those who attended the opening were engaged with the gallery staff and the artists who were able to attend the event.
“This is always one of the most fun events of the year and a lot of the artists in the show are present for it,” Olivetti said.
Mujica was present to accept first prize. However, Mujica declined to speak because he was afraid he would become emotional.
The gallery staff was vocal about the impressions they had after seeing all of the artwork. Sophomore Kathryn Price, who works at the gallery, explained she was impressed with the personality each piece had.
“I feel like there was a really diverse range of subjects,” Price said. “Some that are like almost sketches. And then there are some where you can see each individual brushstroke.”
Sophomore Angelique Poragratti, who also works at the gallery, was impressed with the artists’ self-expression in their artwork.
“I love how you can see how each artist individually is different and how they express themselves as well. Going from one artist to another, it’s incredible just to see like how they blend their colors,” Porgaratti said.
Anyone interested in the diverse collection of artwork can visit the Lore Degenstein Gallery, where the exhibit will be on display until Dec. 10.