Everyone likes to win or, at least, be recognized. Whether it is by their peers or the public, it all validates what an artist strives for. I have been fortunate to participate in many shows and win ribbons in regional and national shows. Each judge looks for something different - in fact, I could submit the same painting to several shows with different judges and in one it will win an award and in another, it might not be juried into the show! Art is subjective not only to the public but to judges as well!

I enter art shows to showcase my art and reach as wide an audience as possible and meet new people who are possible candidates to take home a piece of beautiful art I have created. I also enter art shows to win! It's a win already if you get juried into a show. One of the national shows I like to enter is the River Road Show. They will have over 400 entries from across the US, and then select 72 for the show. Then from that last group they select 3 winners, 5 or so Merit Awards, then some Honorable mentions, etc. I like knowing the my paintings have 'made the cut' to be juried into the show, then the icing on the cake is to win one of the awards! The award says to me that I am on the right path. And there is usually a ribbon plus a prize attached, which makes it even more fun to win!!