New Year, New Portraits

“Looking Out” by Hermke Timm.

The 9th annual Door Prize for Portraiture opens for public viewing June 29 at Chez Cheryl Art Space of Baileys Harbor. This invitational exhibition features 30 regional emerging and established artists brought together to celebrate the portrait in traditional and uniquely personal ways. This exhibit focuses on the varied styles and rich interpretation presented in a variety of media.

Initially inspired by the Archibald Prize of the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, the Door Prize was the idea of Cheryl Stidwell Parker and her husband Steve Lavell, an Australia native.

This event  encourages, honors and celebrates portraiture, and fosters connections with friends and artists. In an age of selfies and Facebook imagery, this exhibit gives the portrait a new facet for self expression and narrative. “We share this event with our friends and art lovers. Every year has been a delight,” said Parker. “While traditional approach to portraiture is evident in painting mediums such as oil and egg tempera, many of our artists have explored drawing techniques and presentation in carved wood, mosaics and tea bags.”

Each year a juror selects several honorable mentions and a Best in Show award. The guest juror is Deborah Rosenthal, who will offer comments and present awards at a reception on June 28 at 6:30 pm. The exhibit will be open for public viewing 11 am to 4 pm on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from June 29 to July 14. For more information call Parker at 920.421.1690. Chez Cheryl is located at 8360 High Plateau Road off County EE, west of Baileys Harbor.