The always popular CAM Biennial is quickly drawing to a close, ending on Friday, December 2. This exhibition provides Oregon artists from across the state an opportunity to exhibit their recent works within an art museum setting. The creativity of 110 Oregon artists represented by 267 artworks in all media of artistic expression, have been on display at Coos Art Museum since October 14. The highlight of this exhibition is the awarding of “The People’s Choice Awards” as determined by you the viewing audience. In secret balloting Museum visitors and members have selected their choices for special recognition.
In a very unusual twist, two artists have tied for the 2016 People’s Choice Award. Coos Art Museum is excited to announce the First Place goes to both Jean Kyle of Coos Bay, Oregon and to Sandy Kudo of Bandon, Oregon. Sandy’s piece titled “Reef Rascals” is a carved and painted gourd while Jean’s work “Into the Woods” is a watercolor. Marcella R. Weaver’s oil “Yellow Tomatoes” captured the eye of the voters and was presented People’s Choice Second Place honors. “Gerberas”, an oil by artist Lynne Margulies of South Beach received the Third Place People’s Choice Award.
“Into the Woods” watercolor by Jean Kyle
“Reef Rascals” Carved and Painted Gourd by Sunny Kudo
Specializing in wildlife wood carvings, Dale Karstetter of North Bend received an Honorable Mention award for his entry “Stretch.” Tod C. Steele of Gold Beach received an Honorable Mention for his acrylic “Frida Cowlo II.” “Colorful Night” an oil by Kevin Audett of North Bend received an Honorable Mention award. Wes Whitman of Coquille received an Honorable Mention award for his watercolor “Summer Retreat.”
As a result of this selection of their works as “The People’s Choice” Kudo and Kyle will be given a two-person exhibition at the Museum starting in December of 2017.
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Coos Art Museum has been a cultural focal point of Oregon’s scenic Southern Coast since 1966. It occupies an historic 1936 Art Deco US Federal Building in downtown Coos Bay. The Museum offers a wide range of arts activities including exhibitions, art classes and lectures. Hours are 10:00am to 4:00pm, Tuesday through Friday and 1:00 to 4:00 pm on Saturday. Museum admission: $5 general, $2 students, veterans and seniors, free to Museum members.
