Four regional artists, displaying their works in a separate juried exhibition during Alexandria's 2004 Festival of the Arts, were recognized Saturday afternoon by Alexandria vice mayor Redella "Del" Pepper, as she presented the "Best of Show Award" and three honorable mentions.
This year's festival dedicated the first block of King Street, from the river to Union Street, to 24 regional artisans, 16 of whom were from Alexandria. "Best of Show" was awarded to Thomas Walsh of Fairfax for his acrylic on canvas, titled "Southwest Trail."
The three honorable mention winners and their entries were as follows:
* Kathryn A. Brown, Alexandria, a color photo titled "Prismatic Scatter”;
* Andrea Pitzer, Falls Church, oil on birch titled "Atalanta: Meleager";
* Ji Won Shin, Arlington, color pencil/ink titled "Squareman."
In making the presentations, Pepper said, "Out of the 10,000 art shows across the nation, Alexandria was ranked 48th among the top 100 by Sunshine Magazine, which is considered the artist's bible as far as ranking various venues. This really does prove we are 'The Fun Side of the Potomac.'"
Of the four winners, only Kathryn Brown was present at the ceremony, held on the stage at City dock. "This is really a surprise and an honor. I never expected to be chosen a winner. Even though I served on the committee for the festival, I can assure you there was no preferential treatment," she said.
Regional artists' works were judged by Peter Dubeau, associate dean, Division of Continuing Studies, Maryland Institute College of Arts. This special show was made possible by a $25,000 allocation from the City, according to Jo Anne Mitchell, president and CEO, Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association.
Brown is a full-time, self-employed commercial photographer. Her art photography has been exhibited and won awards in one-person, group and juried shows since 1983 in a variety of venues. She is also a juried exhibiting member of the Artisans United Gallery in Annandale.
Brown's training includes a bachelor of arts degree in art from Penn State University and an A.A.S. degree in commercial photography from Northern Virginia Community College. Her specialties include coverage of special events using 35 mm film, a wide range of corporate assignments, and architectural photography.
Prior to the presentations held Sept. 11, Pepper asked the assembled crowd to observe a moment of silence in recognition of the third anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the Pentagon and New York City. "I was very pleased that, with all the activities going on in the area for the festival, people really were silent for that period," Pepper said.
Each regional artist was permitted to display and sell one individual creation. The winner of the regional show received a $300 prize. The three honorable mention winners received $100 each.