Sublette County Fair Lynn Thomas Memorial Art Show gains momentum
by Charmian McLellan
July 28, 2015
The second annual Sublette County Fair Lynn Thomas Memorial Art Show sparkled with the creative energy of fine artists from both in and out of Sublette County. The show opened on July 19 and closed July 25.
Artists from the Mixed Media Art Group worked diligently to display 178 pieces of artwork submitted by 40 artists. The diverse exhibit ran the gamut of oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, and encaustic paintings to graphite drawings, pottery, and sculpture. The subjects included many excellent landscapes, abstracts, still lifes, and wildlife. There was a total of 16 sales. There was a special exhibit of paintings by Lynn Thomas on loan from Albert and Jonita Sommers, Mack and Ruth Rawhouser, and Clete and Laurie LaMere.
Well-known artist, Kathy Wipfler of Jackson, WY, chose Pinedale artist Melita Snow's encaustic painting, "Sunflowers", as Best of Show. Director's Choice went to Sharon Schell of Big Piney for her sculpture, "Justin". Idaho Falls artist, Mark Marino, walked away with "People's Choice" for his beautiful oil painting, "September Song".
Four Sublette County businesses generously committed to Purchase Awards. The Waterhole selected Daniel artist Kay Meeks's oil painting, "Juvenile Jaunt". Farm Bureau Insurance purchased Dubois, WY, artist Gary Keimig's oil painting, "The Aspen". First Bank selected Cora ceramist Rita Donham's stoneward vase. The Bank of Sublette County purchased Pinedale artist Melita Snow's watercolor, "Reflection".
Seven artists participated in a "Paint-Out" on Thursday, July 23. These were Debbie Despain, Laurie LaMere, Charmian McLellan, Kay Meeks, Bonnie Nelson, Dee Parker, and Dorothy Selman. The public was treated to a festive reception that evening followed by an auction of the "Paint-Out" artwork. Tim Sims of LaBarge was auctioneer.
This year, the artists of Mixed Media sponsored Bailey Schupp, their first "Promising Young Artist to Watch". Also, youngsters were encouraged to become "Art Detectives" by searching for various subjects and styles in the paintings. They were permitted to choose a prize after completing their quest.
The fairgrounds Community Hall has found a whole new purpose thanks to the hard work and enthusiastic support of the Sublette County Fair Board, Jay and Brianne Brower and their crews, Kailey Barlow, Mixed Media Artists, all the participating artists, and the businesses who granted Purchase Awards.
For further information, please contact Charmian McLellan at 307-537-5488.
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