First-place winner Penny Hanscom proudly stands beside her art piece, “Maybe Next Year.”

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The city is buzzing with excitement as the Cordova Community Council introduces its latest artistic showcase: “Art at City Hall: Masks.” Now in its 47th run, this exhibit promises a visual treat, highlighting local artists’ skills in crafting both 3D and 2D masks.

Housed in the Rancho Cordova City Hall, the exhibit kicked off on April 29 and will run until July 26, inviting residents and visitors to explore the diverse artistic talents thriving within the community.

May 2 marked a special day with awards given to outstanding pieces on display. Guiding the selection was local artist Dwight Head, known for curating the popular “New Spin on Vinyl Exhibit.” 

“When it comes to judging, I want to make sure there is a little bit of everything. I love seeing the creativity, finding the ones that are so unique, so different,” said Head about his decision process.

Claiming the prestigious Best of Show award was Deborah Kelly, with her mixed media artwork “Frit.il.lar.w.” In the juvenile category, Janelle Nham earned first place for her fiber artwork. “Zebra Finch,” inspired by birds that she sees in nature.

 Deborah Kelly's masterpiece, 'Frit.il.lar.w,” receives the Best of Show award.

 Janelle Nham proudly displays her fiber artwork, “Zebra Finch,” which took first place in the juvenile category.

Penny S Hanscom secured first place with her fiber piece, “Maybe next year,” inspired by life during COVID-19.

Michelle Scott's ceramic creation, "Clown Blowfish," earned second place, impressing with its intricate craftsmanship.

 Michelle Scott’s intricate ceramic mask, “Clown Fish,” earns second place in the Masks art exhibit.

Frances Deck's captivating mask, "Wild Side Mask," crafted from African fabrics, linen and threads, earned third place, embodying a fusion of cultural influences and artistic flair.

 Third-place winner Frances Deck showcases her captivating artwork, “Wild Side Mask.”

“To me, these shows have been the catalyst for launching the whole art movement in Rancho Cordova,” said Rick Sloan, one of the artists featured in the exhibit. “It's important because it became a showplace, some place they have for people to show their work. If you don't have that, you've got nothing.”

 Rick Sloan poses beside his intriguing artwork, “Japanese Mask with Beard,” earning an Honorable Mention recognition.

In addition to showcasing local talent, the Cordova Community Council's exhibits embody a collaborative spirit.

Each year, a general members’ meeting is held to propose themes for upcoming exhibits. Members cast their votes, selecting the top three themes to guide the year's four shows. The first three exhibits reflect the chosen themes, while the final show remains open to allow for unrestricted artistic expression.

“Choosing themes pushes artists to create. Gives them a goal to keep going and gets them out of their comfort zone. These exhibits aren't the biggest ones but it really is about quality over quantity,” said Mills Station Arts & Culture Center art director Cheryl Gleason.

As visitors and locals explore the Rancho Cordova City Hall in the coming months, they are encouraged to immerse themselves in the world of  “Masks” holding testament to the community's creativity and passion for the arts.

For more information on upcoming events or how to be considered for future exhibitions, visit cordovacouncil.org/art-at-city-hall.