A Big Show

Various styles and sizes of art lined the walls and the floors of the Redlands Art Association for the 45th Annual Multi-Media Mini Art Show. Starting on March 6th running through Friday, March 28th, submitted art ranged anywhere from photographs to acrylic paintings, oil paintings, digital art, and more. The show welcomed any kind of art as long as it met the requirement of being 14 ½ inches or smaller in height, including the base and frame. The event was not only an art show, but also a friendly competition for those that had submitted pieces to the program. With over $3,000 dollars in cash prizes up for grabs, over 150 pieces of art were judged by Thom Wright. Although he originally obtained a BA and MA in mathematics from UCLA and CSULA, Wright had always had an interest in art. He decided to start selling his own pieces in 1978 and has been actively involved with the art community since retiring in 2006. The artist that took first place and the $400 in prize money was Redlands resident Judith Sparhawk with her photograph titled, “Lady Bountiful.” Sparhawk contributed three pieces of art to the annual show in addition to works as a gallery coordinator for the Redlands Art Association. “The best part of the show is that it draws people from all over California,” stated Sandy Davies, who is part of the Board of Directors as well as a gallery coordinator for the Art Association. Being the main organizer of the 45th annual show, she stressed how important it was for artists. “Local artists are exposed to more areas, it forces them to step up their game and compete with people from all over!” Of the 150 pieces submitted, artists hailed anywhere from Redlands, to Rancho Cucamonga, and even Arcadia to show off their best efforts. The colorful pieces and quaint shop attracted many. Since the event was in its 45th year, attendees of the Multi-Media Art Show included many repeat visitors, in addition to first-timers. First-time visitors like Vicky Hudgins shared that they will be around next year as well. The Redlands Art Association is located in downtown Redlands and was founded in 1964. It hosts the Multi-Media Mini Art Show, spring classes for children, regular classes for adults, and various exhibits throughout the year. The next major show will start on Sunday, March 30th. It will showcase photography from Loma Linda University physicians, titled “Through a Doctor’s Lens.” The Redlands Art Association is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.