December 20184th Annual Leaves & PetalsFeatured Artists & Best in Show Winners
Traditional ArtHunter Jay
“I’m intrigued by mystery and strive to capture this in anything I paint. My subject matter varies, but the aim is to invite the viewer to interpret a hidden element, which can be literal or thematic.”
In his work, Hunter Jay reveals the wonder of the hidden world around us. He focuses on the geometry of the composition, the way the elements are arranged on the canvas. Sometimes, he finds that this becomes more important than the actual subject matter. The work embraces an admiration of simplicity and evokes a contemplative and peaceful place.
Hunter Jay’s paintings are created with multiple layers of transparent glazes. Each layer affects the next, creating an arresting depth of field. The final details are created with the finest natural liner brushes. Largely self taught as a fine artist, Hunter Jay has an innate sense of composition that aligns with his background in graphic design, contributing to the overall illustrative impact of his work.
Please visit Hunter’s website if you are interested in purchasing this award winning piece and to see more of his work.
Digital Art & PhotographyKay McBeath
As a youth, Kay enjoyed art classes and painting in acrylics and oil. In college, she took several art history and studio art courses. About twelve years ago, she enrolled in photography courses in the journalism department of Arizona State University. Then, years of critiques from a professional at gurushots.com honed her macro photography skills.
Kay’s current macro shots focus upon flora, fauna, and man-made objects in their natural settings. Some of her nature photos depict subjects past their prime because she sees beauty throughout life. Her abstracts often capture colors, textures, and forms created by weathering. Lately, she has found a treasure trove in dumpster exteriors.
Painters such as Piet Mondrian, Jackson Pollack, Georges Seurat, and Georgia O’Keefe as well as worldwide indigenous artists have been influential in the style and vibrant colors of her photos. The result of her diverse training and artist’s perception is thoughtful, tightly cropped, and lustrous compositions that reflect her intense love of nature.
Please visit Kay’s website if you would like to see more of her work.
3-DimensionalChelita Riojas
Chelita Riojas is an artist and sculptor based in Bolzano, Italy. She was born in Mexico City and graduated with a degree in Architecture in 1991. In 2006 she moved to Bolzano, Italy where she chose to devote herself to other creative activities. In 2016, she began to create sculptures of plants and flowers.
Chelita’s sculptures are made of aluminum and copper sheets of different thicknesses and textures. The sculptures reflect the sun, in any climate and shine in both natural and artificial light. She chose aluminum because it reflects everything that surrounds the sculptures. Its elasticity allows the plants to move with the wind and adapt to all the elements.
Chelita’s sculptures are in public and private collections around the world.
Please visit Chelita’s website to purchase this award winning sculpture or to see more of her work.