Last evening was the opening reception for the Southwestern Pennsylvania Council for the Arts 22^nd Annual Regional Juried Art Exhibition. I wish all of you could have been there to experience with me the excellent art, the good food, and the joyful exuberance of the crowd. There was a celebratory atmosphere even before the awards were presented. It was voiced repeatedly how top notch the art entries were and how difficult it must be to make the selections. These entries were regional so many artists came from quite a distance. There were many artists whom I have never met before this event. The encouraging comments from one’s peers bring a measure of comfort, confidence and inspiration to any artist. It is like adrenalin for the artist’s motivation. I felt immersed in good will. It was an especially meaningful occasion since this year was a whirlwind of goal oriented competitions and events and I was hoping that this particular show would finalize the busy schedule with a final award. My hopes were fulfilled with a third place prize that is a high compliment considering the amazing competition. Being surrounded by friends and family made the accomplishment even sweeter. Afterward, we went to have dinner and fellowship with our family and friends and had the added bonus of joining other friends who chose the same place to gather. It is sometimes hard to express how much these moments mean as they fill in the pages of life. Thank you all for the memories.

I have added a photo that my daughter took at the show when the winners were together after the awards. I have three pick up dates to bring home my work from the  most recent venues and then I will already be into January. At this point last year I was working diligently on my solo show so this brings me full circle. This year I plan to do more commissions, fewer shows but I will not drop out of the show scene altogether. I hope to teach and also paint more. A few days ago, I tried to count all the works I have in progress. There are seven and a few more at the planning stage. I do so want to see these come to completion. I really want to paint a few more monumental and important pieces. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity and success I have had. I enjoy this vocation and want it to be taken to its most advanced level possible. Hallelu Yah and all praise to Him for blessing my ability and opportunity to do this. I will do as He leads and if that brings more art I will put forth my best efforts and be grateful. So glad to have you all here too. Shalom, Diana

This is just a little note to tell you what has been happening this past week.  First I went to a luncheon at Seton Hill University.  I met with a wonderful teacher named Maureen and her art class who had presented the Women in Art Exhibition.  There were three artists; a carver and maker of wonderful artistic and useful canes which she donates to veterans and other handicapped people, an interesting and inspired artist who paints scenes filled with emotion and meaning, and me, as the realist who uses art to tell stories and capture moments in time to share with the world. The students asked a variety of questions which centered mostly around the way the world perceives women in the art world and the effect that being a woman has on influencing what we produce. I love to take every opportunity to encourage young artists.  So thanks to all of you for being so hospitable and interested.

The following evening I attended the event of the year with my husband and best friend. The Greater Latrobe School District hosts this Gala every year to gather art from local venues and present it for the selection of one or more pieces to their noted collection. Last year I was blessed to have three pieces in the running and all three were chosen into the top five by the audience.  This year I had two and again, both were in the top five by the audience.  This is an honor and I am delighted to be part of this fine occasion and have the wonderful showcase for my work.  Both years the students chose a different top five and so, sadly, none of these works are included in this prestigious collection at this time. Congratulations to all whose works were in the GALA and those who were chosen by the students.  I saw first hand how the exposure to art and cultural events can help shape our future adults.  These kids need to be commended by all for their courtesy and manners and performances as hosts, dosents, and musicians.  I admire all involved.