This year’s exhibition juror is Faith J. McKinnie, curator and owner of the Faith J. McKinnie Gallery, a contemporary art space in Sacramento. McKinnie’s curatorial practice notably champions underrepresented and marginalized queer artists and artists of color. Ms. McKinnie selected the artwork for the exhibition as well as the student art awards. Up to seven Portfolio Awards of $100 may be given in each of the academic disciplines, pending eligible entries, and are open to students who demonstrate a strong commitment to working in studio or media arts. Four to six Merit Awards of $50 are open for eligibility to all entrants. Awards are granted based on technical proficiency, understanding of materials, and creativity. This year, there are three Portfolio Awards and six Merit Awards granted in the following categories to the listed students and their associated work titles:
Portfolio Awards
Ceramics
Katelynn Castaneda, "Anxiety”
Painting
Franca Van Allen, "You Don't Say!"
Photography
William Kim, "Generations"
Merit Awards
Ceramics
Sydney Mariscal, "South Rim"
Lorena Martinez-Mejia, "Owl Vase"
Alyssa Pacheco, "Having Everything Revealed"
Painting
Atzin Castellanos, "Portrait of Jorge"
Photography
Christian Bustos, "Brooklyn Sunset"
Ariana Mallory, "Desert Trails"
SJDC President’s Award
Gennina Flondarina-Johnson, “Teatime with the Enchantress”