The Association of Wisconsin Artists (AWA) hosted the annual Wisconsin Regional Art Program (WRAP) State Conference on September 28 at the Pyle Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison. Antigo Visual Arts (AVA) proudly represented our community, garnering multiple awards and showcasing the exceptional talent of our local artists.
This year, AVA received three prestigious awards, including:
– Sponsor Award: Antigo Visual Arts
– WRAP Coordinator Award: Vicki Eldridge
– Youth Service Award: Danna Gabriel
In addition to these honors, several local artists participated in the conference, exhibiting their works at the regional and state levels. Highlights included:
WRAP-Teen Exhibitors
– Aiden Anderson – “Guitar Up High,” mentored by Olivia Kraucyk
– Sarah Jane Gouge – “Woodland Potawatomi,” mentored by Breanne Kanak
– Chloe Hermensen – “Pieces of My Life Coming Together,” mentored by Ameris Grapa
– Brett Powell – “Youth,” mentored by Olivia Kraucyk
– Kendall Tuura – “Blue,” mentored by Nicole Hansen (received the Duck Lake Award)
WRAP Exhibitors
– Miira Allen – “House Sparrow”
– Vicki Eldridge – “Forest Story” (won the Rural Rembrandts Art Club 3D Award)
– Danna Gabriel – “Shattered Unity”
– Beatie Gmeiner – “A Quiet Afternoon”
– Nancy Leder – “Bubble Fish Show Off”
– Joanne March – “Winter’s Dawn”
– Linda Robinson – “My Defender” (received the John Barton Library Award)
In a statement, Vicki Eldridge expressed, “It’s wonderful to receive recognition for the work happening in our hometown art gallery. The artists in our community are incredibly talented and creative, and the gallery truly wouldn’t be the same without them. Being selected and honored by another talented art group for my personal work leaves me truly speechless.”
Additionally, the AVA Sponsor Award was created to recognize outstanding contributions to the local arts community. This award highlights the commitment of individuals and organizations that support artists and foster creativity in our region.
Antigo Visual Arts is grateful for the continued support of our community and looks forward to promoting and celebrating the vibrant artistic talents of our members.
