The Arts in the Middle (AIM) juried fine arts festival returned to Hewick Plantation near Urbanna this past weekend, offering the community a weekend of fine visual, performing and literary arts. The festival is a recognized annual destination for art lovers and those who enjoy outstanding outdoor events.
The June 4 and 5 show presented more than 80 artists from Florida to Connecticut, along with local communities and Middlesex High School.
Visitors walked along the historic lane under beautiful trees with (or without) a glass of champagne or wine as they enjoyed and purchased favorite pieces of art. Many tasted Souper Chef G’s Homemade Soups, Adam Ginsberg’s popular breakfast burritos, soups and AIM-specific lunch menu while listening to the music, poetry, readings and historical tidbits.
Judging
George Whitman, 78, of Urbanna, and a former professor at the University of Richmond, served as judge of this year’s event. Whitman is a graduate of the Pratt Institute in New York City. He has degrees in graphics, painting and drawing. He has his own studio in Urbanna. Mr. Whitman has participated in numerous group exhibitions and has had one-person shows at the Higgins Gallery at Pratt, the Forbes Library, in Northampton, Mass., and at many other artistic events. “I find great satisfaction in helping other artists achieve personal and professional artistic goals and in sharing the magic of art,” he said.
Awards
Awards were handed out during a reception Saturday evening. Jim Sprinkle, a woodworker from Charlottesville, won Best in Show. Tiffany Heiser from Poquoson won second place for her unique drawings.
The Best Painting award went to Claire Spooner from Williamsburg. The Best Photography award was given to Rick Hopson from Seaford. The Best Three Dimensional Art award went to jeweler Anne Britt. Honorable Mention awards were given to Stephen Dill, Enid Kate O’Rourke and Caleb Barnaby. The Best Local Artist Award was given to Michael Kunzinger, and Best Student Artist award went to Callisto West.
Arts in the Middle is dedicated to its mission of outreach and support of the arts in our community. Show proceeds allow AIM to support local schools art programs, collaborative art events with the Middlesex Museum and Historical Society, and AIM sponsored local art shows providing local artists (visual, performing and culinary) opportunities to showcase and sell their works.
Organizers encourage anyone interested in being a volunteer or sponsor to join the growing AIM team.
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