Artists always want to know what it is about their work
that gains them acceptance into a juried exhibition.
It is a question with many different answers and after
the basics that are easy to vocalize (good composition,
mastery of the medium, color balance, and presentation),
it becomes more difficult to explain the subjectivity
involved.
I approach the challenge of jurying with several parameters
in mind. I want to choose a show that will hang together
in the physical space of the gallery and concurrently
in the emotional space of the viewer. I look for a flow
from piece to piece that will allow the viewer to focus
on works individually and yet leave the gallery with
a sense of having viewed an exhibition of works rather
than solo pieces. This is hard to accomplish with an
unthemed show in all media. It also implies several
other criteria. The presentation of the slide must present
the work accurately. Since I am unfamiliar with the
majority of the artists whose work was submitted, this
becomes even more relevant. Additionally, there were
occasional pieces submitted of high caliber which did
not fit my vision as it evolved around the strongest
pieces chosen to anchor the exhibition.
I strongly believe that any medium and any subject
matter can be presented with a strong artist’s
voice that makes it appealing. I make a conscious effort
not to be drawn to personal favorites in either category.
The choices were hard, the space limited. Each of us
is drawn emotionally to certain themes or pieces. My
hope is that each person viewing this exhibition will
find a special favorite.
It is a wonderful emotional high to view an exhibition
where you have personally been drawn to each piece and
I thank you for the opportunity to jury this exhibition.
To all who submitted, whether you have been chosen or
not, I encourage you to continue your work and wish
you the best in pursuit of your art.
