A local artist is getting a big break.
Shawna Lampi-Legaree said was in shock when she first received word that her work had made it into the 2018 Richeson75 International Arts Competition.
“I was slightly and totally amazed that I even got in,” she said.
Her work fit the theme for this year's competition, which is still life and floral. Her artwork was chosen from over 1,000 entries, she said.
The owner of Dancing Raven Art Studio, Lampi-Legaree said the art show will showcase 75 international pieces from Canada, U.S., China and Malaysia. All the works will be judged on a variety of specific categories. The artist who paints the highest scoring piece will be awarded the grand prize of $2,500.
Lampi-Legaree said she is proud that her work will be featured alongside other artists that she knows and respects.
“To be included in the same categories as some of my inspirations is a real honour,” she said. “I began applying for these international competitions seriously in January. I thought it would take at least three to five years before I would be showcased. I know I'm the first watercolour painter to be accepted.”
The Richeson75 competitions offer a venue for up and coming artists to show their latest work. The 75 finalists for each regular contest have their work exhibited in the Richeson Gallery in Kimberly, Wisconsin and online.
Lampi-Legaree said this experience has been motivational and that the quality of her future work will be affected.
“I know that during my (next) show in November, there will not be nearly as much artwork as in years past,” she said. “I want to put the same amount of time and effort into all of my paintings.”