Above: Brian Burroughs with his first-prize work “My Damsel Breathes Fire”



Bay Area Art Association’s Annual Membership Show fills the Upper and Lower Gallery of the Bonifas Arts Center from now through June 19. The show features artwork in all media from area residents who are members of BAAA, the area’s premiere grassroots arts organization.

Works on display include glass, metal, wood, fiber, clay, watercolor, acrylic, oils, graphite, photography, and mixed media.

“There’s something for everyone,” said Kathryn Morski, Bonifas Public Relations Coordinator. “It’s an absolutely beautiful show. Juror Earl Senchuk from Marquette was amazed and delighted at the quality of the pieces and the diversity of technique, medium and concepts that are displayed here.”

In addition to first, second and third prizes and Honorable Mention awards, an overall Best of Show award is presented annually in memory of Jerry McKie. Prizes were awarded at an Artists’ Reception on May 15.

Winners are:

Best of Show: Russell Secrest for “Glass Painter”

First Prize: Brian Burroughs for “My Damsel Breathes Fire”

Second Prize: Jeff Higbie for “She’s My Inspiration”

Third Prize: Meghan Burroughs for “Portrait of Sophia”

Honorable Mentions: Jan Bernson for “Glow of the Family Circle”, Martha Fieber for “Alders”, Kellie Hanson for “Burst”, Mary Herro for “Victorian Welcome”, Karen Jilbert for “Awakening” and for “Nature Walk”, Carol Stoll for “Cat Tail Garden”, Donna Thurston for “Artisan”, Mary Penet for “Quill Box”.

“People’s Choice” and “Artists’ Choice” awards are voted on by those attending the show and are awarded at the end of the exhibit.

Center hours are Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is never a charge to view exhibits, thanks in part to funding from the Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural Affairs. For more information call 786-3833.