DARA DODSON FINE ART

May 15, 2017

The final decision has been made by me as to which paintings I will submit to the "Nature and Wildlife" show at the St. Augustine Art Association. 1. The Connemara Horses, "HOME TO THE HIGHLANDS". 2. "MATANZAS RIVER INLET" and 3. "SEAGRASS AND PELICANS". I wanted to submit my painting "A WALK IN THE RAIN" but when I read the detailed rules, no people are allowed in the paintings. Oh, well.

Of course I have photos of them below. My husband and I took photos of each with my good camera on a tripod so they are as high-resolution as possible for the submission. The photos cannot include the frames and if we submit more than one photo of each, the entry is disqualified. The submission deadline is June 5th. Only one painting per applicant can be accepted into the show and accepted entries are notified by June 21st. These must be delivered to the Art Association on July 15th or16th, and the show runs from July 22 to August 27th. The awards dinner is on July 22nd. This is a long process, but just getting accepted into the show is a real privilege! Again, people from all over the world enter. I am just happy that I can deliver by hand and not have to pay the cost of shipping which can be VERY expensive! The entry fee is the same for one or three paintings, so entering three gives you more chances at being accepted into the show. Also all entries must be for sale and the Art Association gets 40% of any sales to benefit their programs.

It quickly becomes clear as to why so much time was spent on these paintings. The competition is very stiff and hundreds of people apply. Only technically correct and "moving" paintings make the cut. By "moving" I mean they tell a story that people can relate to and appreciate, it makes them want to stop and listen to the story. In other words, the viewer looks at the painting and stays awhile to enjoy the view, adding to the story or even finishing the story with their words.

It is always a joy for an artist to listen to appreciative comments by viewers of their artwork. In fact, if possible, it is always a good idea to sit or stand close to your work on display and listen to peoples remarks as they go past. Of course, it is best done incognito, as it were, or you might not hear their real thoughts. Their insight can help you a lot to make improvements in your artwork and even your pricing. If there is a bench close by, just sitting quietly allows you to hear and you look as if you are just waiting on someone, etc. If not, then just moving slowly and looking as if you are another browser also works. I well remember last year when my painting was up, I was sitting close by when a couple looked at it. Unfortunately, I wasn't close enough. They spoke at length with lots of gestures, but I couldn't hear a word and I was really frustrated! That won't happen again if I can help it.

Well, enjoy the photos below and I certainly hope to be able to tell you soon that one has been accepted into the show! As always, I appreciate your support. Thanks for looking!