Axel Scott-Kirby points to his watercolor piece, “The Snake Babies”, which won first-place in the Youth category. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The 48th Art Show at Rancho Cordova City Hall, featuring abstract still life and botanical themes, runs from July 29 to Oct. 25. Located at 2729 Prospect Drive, the exhibition features work by local artists and members of the Rancho Cordova Art Community.

The art reception, a staple of every exhibit, held at City Hall from 5 to 7 p.m. on July 31, drew approximately 50 attendees who appreciated the artwork and met the artists. The event featured the presentation of awards, abstract artist located on E Street Gallery, served as the jury for this exhibition.

Michelle Scott won both first-place and Best of Show for her abstract still life pieces, “Sometimes Life Gives You Artichokes” and “Dahlias Want all the Attention.”

 Michelle Scott stands next to her artwork “Sometimes Life Gives You Artichokes”, which was awarded first-place in the show. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan

Scott, a veteran painter who was involved in the first City Hall Art Show in 2012, described her award-winning pieces: “My husband plants dahlias in the backyard, and I wanted to make fun of how beautiful they are and how they always seem to want attention,” she said. “For my collage piece that won first place, I took old paintings that I didn’t like, tore them up and glued them to make images.” 

Scott has been painting for 40 years and recently returned to the art scene full-time.

“I decided to start joining these art shows to get back into it and navigate the challenges that the themes impose,” Scott mentioned. “The art show is quite amazing, it’s on display for three months so that also provides valuable exposure.”

Her grandson, Axel Scott Kirby, won first-place in the youth category for his watercolor artwork, “The Snake Babies.”

“He was very excited and happy to win,” said Scott about her grandson who together have been painting for three years.  At just seven years old, Axel’s achievements highlight the city’s commitment to exposing children to art and promoting these young artists.

“Seeing his art hanging on the wall is pretty cool,” said event specialist Andrea Medina. “It ties into what Rancho Cordova and The Mills Station Art & Culture Center (MACC) promotes with the Micro Pieces project where we work on getting more art supplies for kids.”

Christine Villa was another artist recognized at the exhibit. Participating for the first time in a juried show, she was awarded an Honorable Mention award for her piece “Hanging Memories.”

 Christine Villa received an Honorable Mention award for her piece, “Hanging Memories”. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan

Medina highlighted that the show plays a significant role in the local art scene. “It’s impressive to have art on display at City Hall. We hold these shows four times a year and it gives a chance for local artists to be seen by the public and city officials.”

The Fall Fine Art Show is the next exhibit taking place at City Hall from Oct. 29 to Jan. 19. Every year, the Fall show is open themed and artists are encouraged to submit their best work.

 Attendees at the Art Show appreciated the pieces displayed at the event. Photo courtesy of Rick Sloan