Jay Senter  - Arts

Prairie Village Arts Council awards $3,500 in prizes at annual State of the Arts gala

"Robin," by Donna Van Hooser won this year's "Best in Show" prize.
“Robin,” by Donna Van Hooser won this year’s “Best in Show” prize.

Hundreds of art patrons and artists gathered at Prairie Village City Hall Friday for the “State of the Arts Gala,” a celebration of the city’s arts program and the culmination of the city’s annual juried arts competition.

The winners of this year’s competition were:

R.G. Endres Best in Show Award ($1,000 prize): “Robin,” by Donna Van Hooser

Merit Awards ($750 prizes): “Symbiosis,” by Patrick Cooley; and “Extemporary Construction #36” by Ted Denton.

Arts Council Award ($500 prize): “French Countryside,” by Melanie Nolker.

Honorable mentions ($100 prizes) went to works by: Jean Cook, Sara Sally LaGrand, Jason Filibeck, Michelle Wade and Marla Craven.

Former Arts Council member Randy Kronblad (from left), Mayor Ron Shaffer, and Arts Chair Shelly Trewolla were among the attendees at Friday's reception and party.
Former Arts Council member Randy Kronblad (from left), Mayor Ron Shaffer, and Arts Chair Shelly Trewolla were among the attendees at Friday’s reception and party.