Choosing top artists from a park full of talented creators was a challenge during Sturgeon Bay’s 20th annual Fine Art Fair at Sunset Park over Memorial Day Weekend. A guest judge scrutinized all booths filled with original artwork and brooded over the decisions of which artists would place. The job required a great deal of careful viewing and choosing a handful of artists out of 90+ exhibiting artists was no easy task.
A total of nine awards were presented to recipients Saturday afternoon by Pam Seiler, Executive Director and Savanna Townsend, Marketing and Promotions Director of the Sturgeon Bay Visitor Center. Stephen Fairchild of Three Lakes, received Best of Show for his extravagant metal, home décor artwork. First place two-dimensional art was awarded to Anthony Strublic of Marinette for his fine, black graphite pencil ship drawings of Great Lakes freighters, ocean liners, naval vessels, and lighthouses. First place three-dimensional art was awarded to Kristin Robran of Waukesha for her unique, handmade pottery. Second place two-dimensional art was awarded to Ginnie Sherer of Oshkosh for her beautiful combination of bird photographs and bird feathers. Second place three-dimensional art was awarded to Mary Hager of Adell, for her assortment of mixed media, hand painted animal figures. Third place two-dimensional art was awarded to Randy and Lisa Lee of Luck, for their custom framed art and photography. Third place three-dimensional art was awarded to Jim Thurs of Schofield, for his metal art for homes and gardens. Honorable Mentions were awarded to painter, Frank Mittelstadt of Beaver Dam, and fiber artists, Mark and Lori Tonn of Beaver Dam.
Artists who graciously donated a piece of artwork to the Fine Art Fair raffle, were entered in a drawing for a $200 Sturgeon Bay gift certificate to spend throughout town. The lucky artist who received the gift certificate was fiber artist, Ilze Heider of Grafton.
Many thanks to the volunteers who dedicated their time to make the Fine Art Fair happen- everything from inflating and handing out balloons, to helping with the children’s activities, and cleaning up the park. Sincerest appreciation to donors and sponsors: Tundraland, Door County Medical Center, Artists Guild, Cadence Inc., City of Sturgeon Bay, Door County Advocate, Margaret Lockwood Gallery, Miller Art Museum, Sturgeon Bay Utilities, Tadych’s EconoFoods and Westwood Shores Waterfront Resort.