Valerie Kent Blog Log

What are the "Look Fors" when Jurors Consider Art for Shows and Awards   www.valeriekent.com

The jurying of artwork is an art.  It is based on each juror's taste and their knowledge about art and artistic creativity, skill and talent.  A selection may be what the Juror might want to highlight in a particular show. They may be considering a theme, or ascertaining that each medium is represented or choosing both emerging and seasoned artists.  Jurors follow the criteria for each category that are presented to them by the show's organizers. When a Juror accepts certain artwork for an art exhibit and sale, guidelines come into play. There is no hidden agenda; the juror, the organizers, and the artists want the art to sell.

• The "WOW FACTOR".  Something that sets the art work apart from other artworks.
• Originality – Creativity – Unique quality.
• Aesthetic Appeal
• Craftsmanship – could be confident brushstrokes, beautiful impasto, blending of colours and even framing.
• A knowledge of the Elements and Principles of Art 
• Edges, Atmosphere, Rhythm, Texture, Form, Movement, Energy, Directionality, Colour Theory
• Composition* Great composition does not go unnoticed. 
• Center of Interest 
• Techniques used to achieve special effects
• Visual inspiration
• Professionalism and competence

 When a Judge or Juror (they are not the same) is considering an artwork for an award there are so many factors to consider:

• Uniqueness. 
• Does the work tell a story-is the story about colour, emotion, line, humanity? There are so many stories.
• Does the work show self- confidence, is it bold?.  This includes ignoring everything on this list
• Does the work portray impressive technical skills and presentation?
• Is the work able to depart from a photo or life/nature? Is it creating a new world?
• Is there skillful use of the colour palette – pleasing or jarring as required?
• Is there dimensionality in values, proportion, and symmetry?
• Is there a flow throughout the painting? Does it guide your eyes around the picture plane?
• Is the perspective believable for more realistic works?  For less realistic works does the semblance of perspective work?
• Does the art invoke a sense of emotion and/or a sense of place in the viewer?
• Does the artist convey their own driving force, their emotion and ideas coming through loud and clear?
• How much does the artist care?

There are many ways to prepare art for a show.  Everything on this list is well documented on the internet and at the library.

Keep entering shows.  Do not be disappointed if you are not selected.  Each entry is a learning experience. 

It is the process of making art that is the endorphin to your soul.  Good luck and congratulations for making art.

www.valeriekent.com