This August, the Friends of T.C. Steele Member Show brought the Brown County Art Gallery in Nashville, Indiana, to life with an inspiring display of creativity. This special event provided our members the unique opportunity to exhibit their work in one of Nashville’s premier galleries, welcoming artists of all ages and experience levels.
One of the show’s highlights was the Youth Division, where young artists showcased their incredible talent and had the chance to win awards. Their fresh perspectives and artistic bravery truly stole the spotlight! You’ll find photos of the award-winning artworks below, and we know you’ll enjoy exploring the diverse range of styles and mediums.
youth division winners
1st Place Youth winner Abigail Maxwell and judge Caleb Weintraub with The Studio, Oil; 2nd Place Youth: Sarah Stonerock, ”Rufous-tailed Jacamar”, Color Pencil
We were honored to have Caleb Weintraub, Associate Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies at the Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design at Indiana University Bloomington, serve as the judge. His discerning eye brought clarity to a range of styles and themes, and his selections reflected the vibrancy and depth of the submissions.
- The Best-of-Show award went to a stunning painting capturing the charm of an alley in New Harmony.
- The 1st Place award in the Professional Division celebrated an abstract watercolor fantasy.
- The 1st Place award in the Amateur/Emerging Artist Division recognized an acrylic painting of imaginative sea-like creatures.
- The Youth Division’s 1st Place award honored a heartfelt oil painting of the T.C. Steele studio.
professional category
Best of Show: Anne-Karine Bley, “Red Abundance”, Oil; 1st Place: Rita Davis, Title “Celestial Wanderers”, Watercolor; 2nd Place: Jacki Frey, “Singing Winds”, Oil; 3rd Place: Scott Miller, “Starkey Park 2, Father’s Day Outing”, Watercolor
Additional awards highlighted traditional landscapes, as well as unique works in mediums like encaustic collage and gouache with ink. This diversity is a testament to the boundless creativity of our regional artists.
emerging artists
1st Place: Christine Missik, “They Showed Up”, Acrylic; 2nd Place: Artist Renee Buchanan, “The Longest Evening”, Oil; 3rd Place: Artist Katha Soens, “Color Play 4”, Encaustic
In reflecting on the show, Caleb Weintraub shared his admiration:
“I was greatly impressed by the quality and range of the works submitted. While there were various recurring subjects and scenarios, the unique treatment and handling by each painter set the works apart. It was particularly noteworthy that several artists submitted multiple pieces; their distinct styles and techniques were consistent and recognizable. In an era dominated by digital and mediated imagery, it is refreshing to see many regional artists working directly from life. Their nuanced and subtle responses to their subjects, coupled with a keen attention to material application, offer viewers a vivid and tactile sense of the painting experience, demonstrating the enduring power of traditional mediums.”
honorable mention
Honorable Mention Adult: Artist Laura Crawford, Title “Cosmos in Blue”, Gouache mixed media; Honorable Mention Youth: Judge Caleb Weintraub and art tutor MarySue Veerkamp-Schwab present youth artist Marta Scalabrini’s “Retro Pears”, Acrylic
This year’s show reminded us all of the enduring power of art and its ability to connect, inspire, and elevate. A heartfelt thank-you to all the participants and supporters who made the event so special. We can’t wait to see what our talented members will create next year!
special thanks
Brought to you in part by the Indiana Arts Commission and friends like you.
