Marney Ward sits among more than 60 paintings, dropped off by their creators for jurying at the Coast Collective art gallery in Colwood.
Ward, a senior signature member of the Federation of Canadian Artists, is one of three jurors who had the tough job of adjudicating the artwork.
“We are looking for composition, originality and the excitement of the painting,” she said. “It’s also how well the artist brings the emotions out into the painting. Art has to create a response in the viewer.”
Most paintings require at least two of the three judges to vote for its inclusion. Sometimes one judge will vote for the painting then explain their reasoning, trying to convince the others to include it in a show, Ward said.
In general, a juried show speaks to the quality of the pieces on exhibit, she said. “When you buy art from a juried show, there is security it’s a good painting and that it meets artists’ standards.”
Personally, Ward specializes in floral watercolour paintings. She’s been honing her craft for more than 20 years, yet on occasion, her art has been turned down for juried shows.
“You can’t be overly sensitive or you won’t get anywhere,” she said. “You could have a painting that wouldn’t even get into a show and then the same one wins an award in another show.”
The selected artworks in the Coast Collective show include oil, watercolour, pastel, mixed media and encaustic wax.
All artists showcased belong to the Victoria chapter of the Federation of Canadian Artists. Of the selected paintings, six will receive recognition: first, second and third place awards and three honourable mentions.
The FCA’s spring exhibition runs until March 23 and the gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
An open reception will be held Saturday (March 15) from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Coast Collective Gallery, 3221 Heatherbell Rd.
charla@goldstreamgazette.com