Local Artists Shine at the Fourth Annual Juried Exhibit of Hamilton County Artists

(from the left) John Lee, co-owner of MashCraft Fishers (award sponsor)
Leslie Ober, Best Portrait/Figurative
Les Reinhardt, executive director of Fishers Arts Council
Frances Ruiz, Best Floral/Other
Mark Rouse, Jiffy Lube of Indiana Best in Show
Blake Dauby, MashCraft People’s Choice winner
Laura McCormick, Best Abstract
Scott Marshall, General Manager for Jiffy Lube of Indiana (title sponsor)
Not pictured: Sabrina Zhou, Best Landscape

The artistic talent of Hamilton County is taking center stage at the Fourth Annual Juried Exhibit of Hamilton County Artists, a collaborative effort between the Fishers Arts Council (FAC) and Jiffy Lube of Indiana. This year’s exhibit boasts 41 talented artists from Fishers, Noblesville, Carmel, Westfield, and Cicero, showcasing an array of captivating painted mediums. The event is hosted at the “FAC Hub Gallery” located within the Collaboration Hub at Hamilton County Community Foundation, 11810 Technology Drive in Fishers.

Visitors to the exhibit will be treated to an eclectic mix of artworks, spanning landscapes, portraits, abstracts, and florals, as well as other categories. Awards will be presented in various categories, including Best Landscape, Portrait or Figurative, Abstract, and Floral or Other. The prestigious title of “Best in Show” carries a $1,000 cash prize and the opportunity for a solo exhibit in the gallery in January 2024.

The judging panel for this year’s exhibit is led by Rena Brouwer, a well-known artist with both Indiana and national recognition. Rena, a Delphi resident and accomplished watercolorist, holds a prominent position as part owner of the Opera House Gallery of Contemporary Art in Delphi. Her artistry extends beyond painting, as she is an instructor and entrepreneur who has won international awards for her watercolor creations. Rena’s unique contemporary style and passion for nature are evident in her work, which has gained recognition worldwide. With a career spanning over four decades, Rena has not only exhibited her art but also shared her knowledge at national art conventions, colleges, museums, and community venues across the nation.

Rena’s deep appreciation for nature and the preservation of our natural resources is reflected in her art, making her a significant voice in the artistic community. Her commitment to educating future generations about the importance of heritage and the environment is truly commendable. Rena is also affiliated with several prominent art organizations, including being an Indiana Artisan, a member of The Brown County Art Guild, Indiana Artists Club, Hoosier Salon, Indiana Plein Air Painters Association, and a Cardinal Fellow member of the Watercolor Society of Indiana.

However, the excitement doesn’t stop with the judges. The community is invited to participate in the MashCraft People’s Choice Award. Visit Facebook.com/FishersArt to view the entire 2023 Juried Exhibit photo album and cast your vote by simply clicking the “like” button for your favorite artwork. Alternatively, attendees can cast their votes in person at the gallery during the Second Friday reception and awards ceremony on September 8. Voting will be open from 6 pm to 7 pm, with the award announcements following at 7:15 pm.

The Juried Exhibit of Hamilton County Artists is open for public viewing from September 5 through September 29, with gallery hours on Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm. On Fridays, viewing is by appointment with the Fishers Arts Council. Second Friday receptions are a monthly highlight, taking place from 6 pm to 8 pm and welcoming art enthusiasts of all ages. September’s Second Friday will feature live music by Jasmine White from Indianapolis, sponsored by the Fishers Arts + Culture Commission.

To schedule your gallery viewing or for more information, please contact the Fishers Arts Council by email at info@FisherArtsCouncil.org or by phone at 317-537-1670. The Fourth Annual Juried Exhibit of Hamilton County Artists is a celebration of local artistic talent, offering a unique opportunity to experience the creative spirit that thrives in Hamilton County.