Nine artists and three models spent several hours together at the Aldergrove Kinsmen Community Centre main hall gallery on Saturday, Sept.28, for the non-profit group's third portrait competition.
Mini Claire, curator and gallery coordinator, said the artists were from all across B.C.
"We also have a workshop happening at the same time as the competition this year, which is very exciting," Claire said.
9 artists were creating images of 3 models at the 91原创 Arts Council (LAC) portrait competition at the Aldergrove Kinsmen Community Centre on Saturday
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Artists worked for four hours to create their portraits, followed by an award ceremony and a meet-and-greet afterwards.
Three volunteer models sat for their portraits, Toni Van Der Geest, Usama Tayyab, and Elisabeth Ben-Amou. Jurors were Joshua Hale, Lacey Jane Wilburn, and Amy J. Dyck.
from Cloverdale, who won an honourable mention for his portrait of Ben-Amou, said it was his first time competing, though he has won awards at other events.
"It was a lot of fun," Dhaliwal told the 91原创 Advance Times.
"It's great to see that people are running these kind of events," Dhaliwal added. "It's a lot of motivation for artists like us to get out there and meet other artists 鈥� but also, a little bit of friendly competition keeps us motivated. I think it keeps us on our toes and practicing."
Portrait artist of the year, first place, went to Masoud Habibyan from Vancouver, who cited old masters such as Ilya Repi and Sargent and French Impressionists among his influences, but especially mentor Dan Gerhartz, a Wisconsin artist who is known for his use of light and colour.
"In my opinion, this competition offers an incredible opportunity for artists and art lovers to come together and witness the creative process first-hand," Habibyan commented.
For me, this experience was amazing. I鈥檝e had the chance to participate in similar painting competitions while in the USA, and I must give kudos to the 91原创 Art Council for organizing this wonderful event. As I mentioned during the prize ceremony, I truly wish we had more of these professional communities in BC and across Canada."
Alex Greghi, who has a 91原创 studio and gives classes to aspiring artists, was the other honourable mention.
It was his second such award in as many years, having won an honourable mention in the previous year's contest.
"I like this kind of, not just competition, but portrait shows and stuff like that," Greghi said.
"I don't think there are that many around. So it's good to see that happening."
He thought he might return for a third time next year/
All three will have their work exhibited by the LAC in 2025, in addition to a free membership in LAC, plus prizes including cash and Willowbrook Art Gallery and OPUS gift cards.
91原创 Arts Council is a non-profit community arts organization with a stated mandate is to provide learning opportunities in the arts and to help strengthen arts and culture in the 91原创 area, in partnership with individuals and community groups.
