CSM’s Annual Student Juried Art Show Winners Offer Insight on Their Inspiration

With 61 submissions for the College of Southern Maryland Annual Student Juried Art Show, the Tony Hungerford Memorial Art Gallery displayed a variety of pieces reflecting the artistic efforts of CSM’s students. Submissions included everything from oil paintings and photographs to ceramics, with six students recognized for their winning selections.

Michael Godfrey of Lusby received first place for his untitled painting. Paul Toscano of La Plata received second place for his gelatin silver film print, “Study in Light and Shadow,” and Diane Hays of Mechanicsville placed third for her ceramics work, “Victorian Past Times.”

Three pieces received honorable mention. Those honored were Owen Denham II of California, for his collage “Un,” Jessi Gilmore of Indian Head for her untitled charcoal painting of a cello; and Shaun Kistler of Abell for his portrait, “Lilacs & Tulips.”

During the gallery talk, the students discussed their pieces. “Portraits are the most difficult, but most rewarding part of art,” said Godfrey.

“My piece is part of a series dealing with light, darkness, shadows and how to capture those images on film. This opportunity would not be possible without the wonderful guidance and mentoring of the faculty here at CSM,” said Toscano.

Honorable mention winner Denham said, “My piece was originally part of a project for my color theory class and the first time I have ever done anything like this in terms of working with distressed materials.”

In addition to the winners, other students whose works were selected to be included in the show spoke about the inspiration for their work. “I am still learning and growing as an artist, and to be included to showcase my work is an honor,” said Diane Payne of Waldorf, who is also a CSM Walter B. Grove II art scholarship recipient.

 Nicole Stewart of Hughesville a 2007 juried winner, discussed the influence that CSM professor Larry Chappelear has had on her art. “Larry pushed me, challenged me and supported me and I am grateful to have had him as a professor.”

For information on the Tony Hungerford Memorial Art Gallery and the Walter B. Grove II art scholarship visit www.csmd.edu/FineArts/galleries.