Lamar Place Assisted Living hosted its first annual Juried Fine Arts Exhibition with students competing to have their work displayed for residents and the public to view. This art competition was open to high school art students in Lamar County with ribbons, prizes, and scholarships being awarded.
Susan Moore, M.F.A., who studied at Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, Illinois, and currently serves as art instructor of Paris Junior College, served as the juror for the competition.
An opening reception was held for attendees to view the work and visit with the student artists, many of which gave detailed explanations of their work.
“It is a show of impressive and varied work,” said NLHS Art Instructor Lena Spencer. “It was a wonderful experience bringing the community of all ages together enjoying cookies, socializing with the residents and staff, and voting for the “People’s Choice” award for their personal favorite artwork.”
Lamar Place generously awarded a gift card for art supplies for the People’s Choice Award and four scholarships. Moore awarded two additional scholarships to PJC.
This year’s scholarship winners, place winners and honorable mentions went to students who attend North Lamar High School. NLHS art instructors are Lena Spencer who teaches AP Art and Heather Coe who teaches Art 1-4
Winners of the show are Lauren Arnold, Best of Show – Lamar Place Scholarship and PJC Scholarship; Sarah Mijares, Best of Show – Lamar Place Scholarship and PJC Scholarship; Gracie Mullens, 1st place – Lamar Place Scholarship; Taylor Kyle, 2nd Place – Lamar Place Scholarship People’s Choice Award; Emily Brownfield, 3rd place; and Honorable Mentions – Walker Dawson and Andi Willis.
The show will continue to be on display for the public until December 12. Lamar Place is located at 2905 N. Main Street in Paris. “All are invited to see the student work which is colorful and full of personality,” said Spencer.
Pictured: Lamar Place Assisted Living recognized the top winners of the First Annual Juried Fine Arts Exhibition. From left are Community Relations Manager Laura Spencer, North Lamar High School students Sarah Mijares, Taylor Kyle, and Lauren Arnold, and Executive Director Cortney Dawes. Not pictured is art student Gracie Mullens.