I’m incredibly honored, and honestly a bit humbled, to share that my painting “Spanish Town Early Spring” has been awarded the Purchase Prize at this year’s Baton Rouge Art League Art Exhibition. This year’s show had works of all mediums by 104 invited artists.
Each year, they choose a single piece from all entries, not for an award ribbon, but to become part of their legacy. Their permanent collection hangs in the Louisiana State Archives, and it means a great deal that my work will be included among so many artists I admire and respect.
This piece is one I’ve painted before in different ways and is a true light/shadow, value and color puzzle. I started the painting outdoors or “en plein air” with my painting group, but about two-thirds of the way through, I realized it could be something special. I brought it back into the studio to slow down, think more intentionally, and really give the painting what it needed without the usual plein air distractions.
Despite the title, it’s probably more “late winter” than early spring, painted just before the Spanish Town parade when the trees were still bare. But something about that quiet, in-between season felt right. It is my favorite time here for light conditions with low humidity, super clear skies and atmosphere.
I’m grateful to the Baton Rouge Art League, and especially the selection committee, for this honor. Having my work recognized as something exceptional by my artist peers means more to me than I can fully express. Thank you.
Thank you Marla and Katherine at Studio de Chene (framing), you always accommodate me and help my work look its best!
