The Wellesley Society of Artists’ “Close to Home” show will be on display at the Weston Public Library (87 School St.) during February in the gallery. This show features the artwork of 40-plus members.
The show judge is Maris Platais, and awards were announced at the opening reception on Feb. 18 at 2pm in the library gallery.
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“Close to Home” award winners
The exhibit, on view through the end of February, was challenging to judge due to the high caliber of talent represented. “There were many more paintings worthy of an award and I wish there had been more awards to give,” Platais said. “Although, I am a realistic impressionistic painter, as a judge I consider all genres of paintings.”
First Place was awarded to Janet Montecalvo for her painting, “The Commuter”, Oil 40×30. Platais commented: “The strength and drama of this painting is iconic, it evokes the feeling of respect and strength of technology, juxtaposed to the small human figure, ‘the commuter.’ Also the strong, direct colors enhance the excitement of travel. Technically extremely well rendered.”
![Wellesley Society of Artists](https://media.theswellesleyreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/27083243/unnamed.png)
Second Place was awarded to Michael Murphy for “The Empty Easel,” Acrylic 30×24. Platais commented, “Takes you to another almost surreal dimension, like an open canvas that begins with an emotion and abstraction….bold, confident lines makes the painting undulate, pulsate like it has a beating heart. What will emerge?”
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Third Place was awarded to John Sherffius for “Aquarium Rush Hour,” Acrylic 30×48. Platais commented: “The seemingly random movements of the fish actually have a flow that is directed to the right. Strong movement is created with the use color which is well thought out.”
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Honorable Mentions went to: Maria Babb, Dayle Bodnar, Samantha Eio, Chelsea Sebastian, & Felicia Tuttle.
For more information, please visit www.welleselysocietyofartists.