Stendhal Festival of Art has gone global attracting attention from artists around the world.
Organisers say they received entries from all over Ireland and as far away as Estonia and even Taiwan for their first ever Stendhal Art Competition.
Judged by the acclaimed Limavady artist, David McDowell, the top three ranked entries in our painting, sketching, graphics and cartoon category.
First place went to Claire Michelle O’Conner whose work David said: “Her ability to capture the female form in motion is exquisite. Using a delicate paint application juxtaposed with a quiet background she cleverly eliminates unnecessary narrative that can paralyze the viewer’s imagination.”
Claire (24) from North County Dublin said on receiving the news that she was adjudged first place: “I’m delighted, I would like to thank David McDowell for his kind words, and I can’t wait to see what Stendhal Festival has to offer. I’m very excited about taking part.”
In second place came 24 year old Maghera man, Brian Kielt. David commented: “His attention to surface and physical application of paint is really quite refreshing. He has captured the human form in an emotional way using a layering process reminiscent of Francis Bacon yet in an original way.”
Third place goes to Thomas J Byrne, a 34-year-old artist who was born in New York City and grew up in County Carlow.
“Thomas has a Fantastic repertoire of works on his website www.thomasjbyrne.com along with the submissions he entered into the contest,” said David, “the sense of movement and fluidity about the work is exceptional. The Dance executes a complex technique of capturing the viewer in a moment in time.”
The winners each receive two passes to the event and will have their work proudly displayed in our Art Gallery.
Other local Artists showing on the day include; Elaine Taylor, Emily Hill, Amanda Shirlow, Joshua Marx, Cliodna Timony and more.
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