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Pleasanton’s annual juried exhibition featuring the finest and freshest artwork by creatives throughout the region is on display downtown this summer in the city’s Harrington Gallery.
“Fresh Works XIV” includes nearly 80 pieces handpicked by judge Susanna Stromberg from the 369 submissions received from 123 artists. The final selections span the medium spectrum from oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, ceramics and more, representing “a survey of contemporary talent from across the Bay Area”, according to gallery curator Sydney Tang.
“The exhibition highlights a diverse range of disciplines while balancing the perspectives of emerging voices alongside established artists,” Tang told the Pleasanton Weekly.
“What makes this exhibition significant is that all artwork on display was completed within the last 12 months,” Tang said. “The collection serves as an immediate reflection of current regional trends, techniques, and thematic focus. None of the selected pieces have also been previously exhibited in Pleasanton, offering visitors an exclusive first look at these recent creations.”
“Through a blind jury process, the exhibition removes barriers, placing the work of rising talent directly alongside seasoned artists to prioritize artistic merit and visual impact,” Tang added. “‘Fresh Works’ provides a clear, unvarnished look at the creative output defining the Bay Area art community today.”
After opening June 5, “Fresh Works XIV” will continue at the Harrington until Aug. 1. A special reception was held the day after its debut at which the exhibition’s awards were announced.
Tom Altemus won the top prize, the Gary & Nancy Harrington Award, for his painting “On the Fence”. Merit awards went to “Self Portrait with Clara and Strings” by Madelyn Covey and “Rooted” by Jun Yan.
Earning honorable mentions were “Common Ground” by David Casterson, “The Immigrant” by Daniel San Souci, “Devil’s Workshop” by Jenna Hobbs, “Generations” by Fran Cain and “Chinatown” by Michael Manente.
The awards were selected by Stromberg, an artist in photography, collage and ceramic who serves as director of the June Steingart Gallery at Laney College where she is also a member of the art faculty.
“Fresh Works XIV” is open for viewing on Wednesdays through Saturdays at the gallery inside the Firehouse Arts Center at 4444 Railroad Ave. in downtown Pleasanton. For more information, go to firehousearts.org.
