The 79th annual Paducah Woman’s Club Art Show wrapped up this afternoon. For the last two weeks, the event displayed the work of more than 120 artists and students.
Best of Show was awarded to Carolyn Daniels of Benton, Kentucky. Mel Garbarck, also of Benton, took home first place in the professional category.
Jenny Fuller of the Paducah Area Painters Alliance says in her thirty years of participation, she’s seen great work from professionals and amateurs alike. The art show is divided into those 2 categories, but it’s up to participants to choose which side they want to enter.
“It’s an opportunity for beginners to show their work for the first time. It’s always nerve-wracking when you start showing your work and getting it out there for people to critique,” Fuller said.
“And it gives students an opportunity to do that, as well as beginning artists, and then through the years you can watch the specific artists improve.”
Fuller says it’s not just local painters that enter the show; she’s seen entrants of all ages from surrounding states display their art. A recent ribbon winner began painting at the age of 86.
The exhibit coincided with the city’s famous quilt show, something Fuller says is a blessing and a curse. She says the Woman’s Club doesn’t always get quite the advertising it needs but those attending the quilt show usually stop by, helping to make up the difference.
Those interested in next year’s Woman’s Club Art Show can contact show chairwoman Wanda Moore at (270) 210 7436. Adults can enter up to 3 pieces for $10 each, while children can enter up to 2 works at $5 apiece. Those costs go towards the award fund.
