Antigo Visual Arts (AVA) welcomed artists, art enthusiasts, and community members to its Spring Symphony of Color Exhibit Reception on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the AVA Gallery, located on the second floor of the Langlade County Historical Society Museum.
The reception featured an awards presentation judged by Olivia Kraucyk, who attended the event to discuss the selected award winning works and recognize participating artists.
A special sponsored award from Dairy Queen was presented by Molly Messer to Paul Grinde for his artwork, “Memories.” An Anonymous Sponsor Award was presented to Vicki Eldridge for “Toadstool & Co.,” which also received the exhibition’s Viewer’s Choice Award.
Additional award recipients included:
Honorable Mention Awards:
“Chickadee N Berries” by Jamie Musolff
“Dawn’s Witness” by Laurie McConnell
“Memories” by Paul Grinde
Place Awards:
Third Place: “Sea Flowers” by Joanne March
Second Place: “Believe in You” by Danna Gabriel
First Place and Artist’s Choice Award: “The Woman Who Built Her Own Sky” by Madison Taylor
In addition to the exhibit, AVA welcomed author Dennis Erickson and illustrator Brian Ponshock, who introduced their children’s book, “Rocket the Superhero Therapy Dog.” Rocket, the therapy dog featured in the book, also attended the event and delighted visitors throughout the evening.
“The Spring Symphony of Color art show was an absolute joy to attend,” said Brian Ponshock. “Being able to connect with local artists both young and old and admire the different techniques and media they use was truly inspiring for me to see as a cartoonist and illustrator. It was great to see a large attendance from our community which allowed for obtaining real time feedback for the book I illustrated. Definitely worth attending. Looking forward to more of these events in the future!”
Guests enjoyed friendly conversation, hors d’oeuvres, and the opportunity to experience the exceptional talent of local artists. The exhibit showcases a diverse collection of artwork and will remain on display through July 30, 2026.
The AVA Gallery remains active year round, featuring rotating exhibits that change approximately four to five times annually. Following the Spring Symphony of Color exhibit, AVA will present a solo exhibition featuring the work of artist Joanne March.
Antigo Visual Arts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting creativity and artistic opportunities throughout the community. In addition to operating the AVA Gallery, the organization leases nonprofit space within the Aspen Village Apartment Complex known as the AVA Art Center. The center hosts membership gatherings, classes for all ages, workshops, and public art projects that enrich the cultural life of the region.
AVA extends sincere appreciation to its supporters, including the Remington Foundation, the City of Antigo, the Langlade County Historical Society Museum, Aspen Village Apartment Complex, Johnson Electric Coil Company, Inc., CoVantage Credit Union, and the many additional businesses, organizations, and individuals whose contributions make AVA programs and exhibitions possible.
Special thanks are also extended to Benjamin Baumgartner for photographing the reception and helping document the evening’s celebration of local art and community.
The Spring Symphony of Color exhibit will remain on display through July 30, 2026. For more information about Antigo Visual Arts, upcoming exhibits, classes, and membership opportunities, contact ava@antigovisualarts.org or follow the organization on social media.
