By Glen Kessler
Judge, Paint the Town Labor Day Show

This show, the nearest and dearest to my heart of all local exhibitions, one in which I have participated in some capacity for over 25 years—three times as the Bertha Clum award winner, twice as Invitational category winner, and twice now as its juror—is the strongest I have seen yet! It was my supreme honor and tremendous challenge to jury prizes for this show. In the end, it was quality of craftsmanship and uniqueness of idea that led my decision making process.

I believe you will see across the prize winners a professional caliber of artistry both in technique and concept that speaks to the outstanding talent and work ethic of our local community of artists. And there were many artists' work that I truly loved, but which just missed out on prize recognition. To all of you artists, I see your effort, I see your bravery.

I want to thank the members of Montgomery Art Association who gave their time and effort organizing and executing what is without a doubt one of, if not THE, top annual exhibitions in our area, one that I and so many others in this thriving artistic community look forward to. Thank you to the town of Kensington as well for their steadfast support of the arts and this showcase.

Congratulations and kudos to all on this celebration of art!