Members of the Volunteer Judging Committee had their work cut out for them in selecting which of 89 employee-artist entries would be featured in a showing at The Box Gallery in the Commerce Pavilion. The judges’ work became even harder when choosing which of the entries – ranging from watercolors to photographs, stained glass to dyed eggs – would be awarded prizes.
“It takes a lot of courage to submit your personal artwork in a public show,” said Robin Trafton, curator of the Commerce Bank Art Department. “The judges were so impressed with the quality of work submitted. It made their job very difficult.”
Commerce Bank Chairman & CEO Jonathan Kemper announced the winners at the Commerce Bank Employee Art Show opening reception:
Best in Show: Jay Orr (Information Technology), “Bread, Love & Dreams,” pen and ink/ink wash drawing
First Place 2D: Jessica Janasz (Retail, Corinth Square), “Escalating Color,” digital photograph
First Place 3D: Shelly Gifford (Information Technology), “Cartons of Pysanky Eggs,” hand-dyed eggs
Honorable Mention: Joe Cannon (Information Technology), “Dragon Tree,” acrylic painting
Honorable Mention: Cathy Briles (Information Technology), “Morning Walk,” digital photograph
Each of the winners was awarded a contribution to the not-for-profit organization of his or her choice. “Watching employees get excited about resurrecting their artistic efforts has been one of the best results of the show,” Trafton said.
