Grand Detour Arts Festival Names Winners, Spotlights Talents

BREAKING: The 76th Grand Detour Arts Festival has officially announced its winners, celebrating exceptional talent in the heart of the community. This year’s festival highlighted the creativity and artistry of local artisans, with the results just released.

Among the top honors, Ryan Jandrey of Dixon took home the prestigious Best of Show award for his outstanding work. The festival, which took place recently, saw fierce competition across various categories, showcasing the incredible skills of both adult and student artists in the region.

In the adult category, the winners include:
– Best Painting Medium: Karen Tucker, Dixon; Runner-up: Stuart Roddy, Coleta
– Best 3D: Nancy Ocken, Polo; Runner-up: Robert Spickerman, Sheridan
– Best 2D: Ben Calvert, Villa Park; Runner-up: Petal Pushers, Dixon
– Best Photography: Stephen Hart, Sterling; Runner-up: David Bingaman, Dixon
– Best Woodwork: Michael Kriz, Walnut; Runner-up: Bill Thumm, Rockford
– Best Jewelry: Margaret Rogowski, Lockport; Runner-up: Carol Musial, Lombard
– The Tradition Continues Award: Rachel Newell, Chillicothe

The student categories also showcased remarkable talent, with awards given in various age groups. Highlights include:
– Kindergarten to second grade winners:
– 1st: Jeremiah Anderson for watercolor
– Judge’s Choice: Riveya Galindo for marker
– Third to fifth grade winners:
– 1st: Emersyn Smice for chalk
– Judge’s Choice: Kaylee Steele for mixed media
– Sixth to eighth grade winners:
– 1st: Olivia Showalter for oil pastel and watercolor
– Judge’s Choice: Charlotte Gallagher for crayon
– Ninth to twelfth grade winners:
– 1st: Nivea Noon for colored pencil; Best of Show for ceramic

This annual festival not only promotes local artistry but also fosters community engagement and appreciation for the arts. The recognition of these talented artists serves as a reminder of the vibrant creative spirit present in the area.

With the festival concluded, local officials are encouraging residents to support these artists and their work. As community interest grows, many are looking forward to next year’s festival, which promises to bring even more impressive talent to the forefront.

Stay tuned for more updates on local arts initiatives and events as the community continues to celebrate creativity and innovation. This year’s festival not only highlighted local talent but also strengthened community bonds through shared artistic expression.