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Spring Art Show Shines
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Loren and Janet Spooner, along with being members of the Oak Valley Art Society themselves, enjoyed touring the weekend art show at the Escalon Library, looking over the entries. - photo by Marg Jackson/The Leader

Members of the Oak Valley Art Society put their best work forward this past weekend, with their paintings, drawings, photographs and more on display at the Escalon Library.

It was the annual OVAS Spring Art Show and drew in plenty of entries, with the show open to the public both Saturday and Sunday. A reception with the artists, including the presentation of awards, was hosted on Sunday afternoon to close out the annual event.

Oak Valley Art Society members gather monthly for meetings at the Escalon Library and have members from Escalon, Oakdale, Riverbank and beyond. Among the unique offerings at the show were the 3D paintings by Richard Johnson, who incorporates lighting and bits and pieces of common household and yard items into his works to make them come to life. Johnson gives classes in the 3D artwork at Hobby Lobby, said OVAS President Evelyn Cooper.

Other pieces on display in the show were the Best of Show painting done by Margo Flanagan titled ‘My Man’ and the Best of Show photograph by Carol Earle, titled ‘Up the down Stairs.’ This year’s judge for the show was Don Hall of Turlock. Show visitors were able to cast ballots on their favorites as well and those awards were presented at the Sunday afternoon reception, Cooper said.

Chosen as the People’s Choice award winner in painting was Virginia Skidmore’s ‘Clouds Over Ocean’ and People’s Choice photo winner was Dana Gookin-Owens, ‘Everyone Loves Flowers.’

Along with the artwork, visitors to the show could take chances on a number of opportunity baskets and prize packages, with funds helping to support the society.

Taking time to tour the artwork on Saturday were Loren and Janet Spooner, who both are members of the OVAS.

“I try to get a lot of colors,” Loren said of making sure his artwork is vivid. One of the pieces he had on display was a mixed media, done with India ink and acrylics.

 

“I use oil and acrylic,” added wife Janet, who said they have been involved with the local art group for several years.