Here's a gallery
 

Here are the four winning paintings.

If anyone is upset, I'll take the images down, but I thought it would be great to group these together.

Garth

1. The Plasterers, by Alex Tyng (top 12 finalist)

2. The artist, John Smith, by Tony Pro (of 5 exceptional merits)

3. Is it Dawn or Dusk?, by Linda Brandon (of 15 certificates of excellence)

4. Apotheoun, by Garth Herrick (ditto)

Oh Alex, I am incredibly happy for you! !!!! You really deserve this recognition. I've seen this painting in person and it is very impressive. You are a grand, passionate painter, Hurray and hugs to you!! So proud to know you!!

Tony, I am delighted for you! What a wonderful painting that is.

Garth, I've always loved this painting and I'm so happy to see your name in this thread. Congratulations! I wonder if we are in the subcategory of "Portraits of People Lying Around".

And Tony's friend!
 

I have not seen the listing of winners yet, but Tony Pro's friend, the renowned Jeremy Lipking is also among the Top 12 Finalists. No surprise!

Garth

Congratulations Garth, Tony, Linda and Alex!

I have to say - I am SO impressed at the figurative nature of these and that they won awards (or are in the finals) - this is wonderful as far as I am concerned! I had always assumed they kept to very very traditional portraiture. I love that it seems to be opening up a bit.

Im looking forward to seeing these pieces in person. Actually, I've seen Linda's and it is very deserving.

Simply fabulous!

They are all wonderful paintings...T

Congratulations to all of you! Wonderful work!

Big Congrats to all 4 of you! So exciting and such impressive work!

YAY to everyone else :exclamati Congratulations to Garth, Linda, & Tony!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you all for your support all along. I mean it!

Linda, talk about being overly modest! Who was it who lectured me yesterday on how I shouldn't keep this from my friends on the forum, when all I wanted to do was tell my family first? Hmmmmm?

Thanks for all the kudos guys!

I am a bit relieved the painting wasn't chosen in the top 12 as I just sent this painting to London for judging in the BP award, hopefully it will stay there as part of the show...

Hopefully see you guys in Dallas!
Tony

My congratulations to You Alex, Garth, Tony and Linda. Your work and the work of others on this forum, the individual and personal advice here is our inspiration. Keep up the standard of excellence and do continue to take the time and share with us.

Sincere regards,
mischa