By: Kathy L. Collins
During the month of May, the Brandon League of Fine Arts (BLFA) holds its Annual Members’ Show at Center Place. The artwork of very talented artists is on display all month in the Mook Gallery.
An Artists’ Reception was held on Thursday, May 14. At that time awards were announced, and the BLFA presented Center Place with a $500 donation. Lisa Rodriguez, Marketing Director for Center Place said, “We appreciate all that the members of the Brandon Service League do for the arts from hanging the shows at Center Place each month to promoting the arts.”
This year’s show was judged by James Vann, a Neo-Cubism/ Modern Art painter and local resident. Vann had a difficult job having to go through 70 fabulous works of art. But in the end, he was able to come up with the top artwork.
Taking First Place was Roxanne Tobaison with “Garden Retreat.” Vann said, “The perspective of strong colors that fades in the distance really gives a realistic approach, Feels like I’m invited to walk through the open gate to see more.”
Second Place was awarded to Jacqueline Schembri for “Port of Tampa Shrimp Boats.” Vann said of this piece, “This painting is strong, photographic and balanced. Excellent painting.”
Third place went to Diane Smeed and “Orange.” Vann said, “The simplicity and use of space, drew my eyes to the subject. The blending of color depicted the light source and accentuated the fullness.”
Doreen Donovan was awarded the Chuck McLaughlin Memorial Award for “Happy Hour.” Donovan said, “I was fortunate to know Chuck. Not only did he paint well, but he had a beautiful voice. He would sing at events. I’m excited to win the award.”
Bay Area Cardiology provides funding for two From the Heart Awards. These went to Frank Bolock and “Playground at the Mall” and to Randy Matthews and his photograph, “Pebble Beach.”
Honorable Mentions went to Joanna Karpay, Meletha Everette, Carol Harrar and Chris Klein.
The BLFA meets on the third Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at Center Place located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. For more information, please visit www.blfa.us.
