Congratulations to the NFWS Members whose paintings have been selected to win awards in our Spring 2026 Members Watermedia Exhibition. Our judge Chris Leeper’s judge’s statement and individual comments for all of the awards are shared below. The award winners can now be seen at the Carnegie Art Center, 20 Goundry Street North Tonawanda, NY from May 13 through June 19, 2026. It’s a stunning show, beautifully juried, and hung. Thank you to Barbara Billittier, Gerry Genson, Carol Siracuse and Barbara Burns our NFWS Exhibition Committee, and to the Carnegie Art Center staff .
Again, congratulations to all artists who submitted their paintings. Keep painting!
Judge’s Comments
Thank you for the opportunity to judge the Transparent Media Members Exhibition. I take this responsibility very seriously, as I have often been in the same position as the exhibiting artists.
My judging process is straightforward: I walk through the show several times to identify the paintings that stand out. While some are immediate choices, others require more time to emerge. When evaluating the work, I prioritize design, specifically considering composition and value arrangement. While all art elements—including color, shape, and texture—are in play, subject matter is not a primary consideration in my selection.
This exhibition was excellent, showcasing a wide variety of approaches and many impressive works
1st place – Anita Balachandran – Kale in Morning Sun
This is a stunning painting. Technically, it is practically flawless. The striking light effect is created using strong values, color and design.
2nd place – Catherine Skerker – At Every Turn
I was attracted to this objective abstraction. The artist has flattened the picture plane and used a variety of symbolic imagery to create a complex and inviting composition.
3rd Place – Larry Nagode – Somewhere North of Buffalo
I commend the artist for successfully capturing this difficult combination of moving water and dramatic light effect. It is a strong landscape painting full of great color, values and energy.
Honorable Mention – Michael Killelea – Clemons Gazebo
This painting becomes more than a solid rendering with the addition of the figure sitting in the gazebo. It creates a subtle narrative that I find very compelling.
Honorable Mention – Geraldine Meday – Shall We Dance
This is a small, quiet painting that you could easily miss. However, it is an absolute feast of juicy washes and complementary color. It is a warm and inviting painting.
Board of Directors Award – Diane Goupil – Mist at Niagara Falls
The freshness and transparency of watercolor is showcased in this lovely painting.
Janet Ide Memorial Award- Carol Koziol Clark – Colors of the Night
This painting is a bold design statement that incorporates rich color variety and strong values to create a memorable image
Judge’s Choice Award – Paula Marie Borkowski – Go! Left Tunnel Ahead
The mysterious narrative of a subway tunnel drew me to this painting. Working with such a dark value subject can be tricky. However, the artist was able to include plenty of interesting color passages.
Judge’s Choice Award – Val Liberator – Morning’s Kiss
This is a warm and inviting painting that uses an effective vertical format.
Judge’s Choice Award – Onda Simmons – Hall of Philosophy
Initially, I was attracted to this painting by the great shadow shapes. I also like the unusual perspective.
Judge’s Choice Award – Kathleen Howell – Willow Road
This is a bright and cheerful painting. I appreciate the effective handling of the leaf and grass textures.
Judge’s Choice Award -Brenda Cretny – Civil War Costume
This is a lovely watercolor portrait that is well painted and described. The light on the clothing is handled effectively with subtle and economic brushwork.
