Best in Show honoree proves to be Viktorija Bulava
The winner of the Best in Show honor of Big Waters Land Trust’s third annual Community Art show is Spoonbill by Viktorija Bulava, the nonprofit organization announced this week.
“This community exhibition continues to provide a platform for artists to share their unique perspectives on Florida’s natural beauty,” a news release points out. “Artists of all ages and experience levels were invited to submit their original work showcasing the beauty of nature for jury consideration,” the release adds; 20 pieces were selected for inclusion in this year’s show.
Along with Bulava, the other jury-selected winners are as follows, the release points out:
- Merit Award — Edge of the Myakka Prairie by Faith Bradburn-Keller.
- Merit Award — Florida Meadow by Winnie Clayton.
- Merit Award — Wildflowers After Milton by Mary Louise O’Connell.
The 2026 jury comprised Alicia Brown, a Jamaican contemporary realist painter “renowned for her captivating work that seamlessly blends skillful technique with profound story telling; Jen Kroeger, a multi-disciplinary artist” who uses paint, mixed media and textiles to create “vibrant, uplifting abstracts that reflect her love of bold color and natural surroundings”; and Christa Molinaro, director of Exhibitions at the Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art + Design, bringing more than 20 years of experience in the museum field, the release says.
When making their selections, the jurors evaluated submissions on the basis of well nature was showcased, the use of color and texture, “attention to detail, and the overall composition of the piece,” the release continues. The artists’ names were omitted during the selection process, the release notes.
Through Aug. 31, the exhibit may be viewed at the Big Waters Land Trust headquarters in Osprey, which stands at 400 Palmetto Ave., the release adds. The exhibit will be on view Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For questions or to inquire about appointment availability, persons may call the Land Trust office at 941-918-2100.