One of Nantucket’s most unique artistic exhibitions is the annual People’s Choice Exhibition, where patrons of the Cecilia Joyce & Seward Johnson will have the opportunity to view and vote for their favorite pieces by members of the Artists Association of Nantucket. “A long standing favorite among our patrons, the People’s Choice exhibition continues to showcase a wide array of styles and mediums, and this year should be no exception,” says AAN artistic director Robert Frazier. “There is no theme per say,” says Gallery Manager, Peter Greenhalgh, but many of the artists strive to bring their best pieces with the hopes of being awarded the coveted gold medallion for their work.
The voting is “open to everyone,” says Greenhalgh, adding, “traditionally they vote for two favorites.” Gallery staff will tally votes and gold medallions will be awarded to those artists who received the highest number of votes. Typically six to eight works are chosen as winners and receive special recognition during the month-long exhibition. Patrons delight in seeing the “best and brightest work [of members of the Artists Association of Nantucket],” says Greenhalgh.
Artists participating in the exhibition can show one or two works which are typically split between the first and second floors. As visitors walk through the exhibition, they can vote for two favorites on ballot sheets provided by the gallery, making this a truly interactive experience. Voting takes place during the first week or so of the exhibition, so make sure to head on over and check out what this year’s artists have created.
In addition to the People’s Choice Exhibition, new AAN member, Zoe Markham will be the featured artist in the Solo Spotlight Show. Solo Spotlight Artists have the opportunity to share several selected works in a highlighted area of the gallery and Greenhalgh looks forward to sharing Markham’s work with the public, calling her a “very talented young woman.”
The Annual People’s Choice Exhibition opens Friday, September 27 from 6-8 pm in the Cecelia Joyce & Seward Johnson Gallery at 19 Washington Street. Voting is done during the first week of the exhibition during regular business hours, Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, with a brief closing from 2- 2:30 pm. The exhibition continues through October 21. To learn more about the Artists Association, their classes, and events, visit Nantucketarts.org.
