Photo by John Drake
Billed as Idyllwild’s largest art party, the Eye of the Artist event last Saturday did not disappoint. Town Hall was filled with art, artists, live music and art lovers.
More than 60 artists donated their artwork either to the judged art show or the silent auction to offer art lovers more than 75 pieces of art. People bought raffle tickets in the hopes of winning their favorite pieces or they bid via a silent auction. A fire blazing in the fireplace, food, wine and craft beer completed the party atmosphere. Mile High Café generously donated two trays of ribs.
The art show judge, Jean Bradley, commented on the quality of the art, particularly the photographic entries. As proof of this, Bruce Watts won not only a first-place ribbon in the Photography category, but also “Best of Show.” Here is a complete list of the ribbon winners:
Best of Show: Bruce Watts
Best Theme: “Visions of Unity,” Jen Hajj
2D category: 1st place, Jessica Schiffman; 2nd place, Doug Berghagen; 3rd place, Magdalene Harper; Honorable mention, Donna Elliot; Honorable mention, Lynn Ryan
3D Category: 1st place, Cher Townsend; 2nd place, Kirk Evans; 3rd place, Jeff Boone
Photography category: 1st place, Bruce Watts; 2nd place, Jen Hajj; 3rd place, Jason Cleghorn; Honorable mention, Donna Elliot
Wearable Art category: 1st place, Karen Johnston; 2nd place, Janet Everitt; 3rd place, Donna Elliot
The money raised from AAI’s second-largest fundraiser goes toward art scholarships and funding local art-related events by other nonprofits. “We are supportive of all arts, including drama, music and dance,” said President Donna Elliot.
