O

n March 21, the Artel Gallery hosted their Artist’s Reception for the 
March show presentation. This month’s theme was “Cyberpunk.” Artists 
were allowed to submit one to three pieces fitting the theme, based around 
dystopian cities, futuristic people, places and things, as well as industrial 

evolution. Juror Pat Hayes chose a piece from each artist that represented the theme, as 
well as close attention to the unique, and a cohesive element to unify the show.  Artel 
provides a venue for continuous experimental and contemporary art, and this unique 
show exemplifies the creativity and spunk of the Gulf Coast’s unique and talented artists. 

The final awards were presented and featured “Mechanized Ranger” by R. J. Wacker as 

Best in Show, First Place to Veila Lala for “Metallica Underground,” Second Place to Ann 
Hemard for “No Place to Go,” and Third Place to Jan Hoffman for “Always Hope”. Most 
Experimental went to Randy New for “Views From Earth,” and Honorable Mentions 
were James Amerson, Louie Favorite, Ruta, and Nikki Strahota.

The Award Alcove was proud to display work by Tommy Curl, who won “Best 

In Show” at the Micro/Macro Exhibition. Tommy is an imaginative artist who has 
been painting for about 25 years. This show demonstrated subject matter with depth, 
inspiring a new view of the commonplace world. Tommy’s style is infused by a mix of 
contemporary, surrealism, and expressionism.

photos & story by

Kristina Wright

   VIP Pensacola at Artel Gallery

Artel Artist’s Reception

40     |    VIPPensacola.com

Michael & Rebecca Sanders

Cheryl Kirby & Wendy Manderson

Cherie Mulhearn, Lorelei White & Ruta 

Randy New & Christina Salomé

Donna Jones & Graham Wildsmith

Ethan Mosley & Jay Dunham

Kendall Sainata & Brooke Moore

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4/30/19   8:04 AM