The showroom was packed when Ted and Charlotte and I arrived at Corse Gallery & Atlier in Jacksonville, Fl Nov. 20, 2009. There were exquisite appetizers and drinks served by the attentive hosts of Corse Gallery. The artists wore identifying badges, so as we mingled, we were able to introduce ourselves more easily with one another. I really enjoyed meeting so many faces behind the names of paintings I had long admired. The show winners were annouced sometime shortly after seven, and it was exciting, as the speaker asked, "May I have your attention?". This suspense created a surprising silence from the former din of happy chatter. Nancy Howe (see below inset, I just had to share) won $4000.00 and the prestiegous gold medal hanging from a multi-colored ribbon, (I felt, similar to the Olympics) for "By Hand"28"x22"  $28,500.00. (This is one of a series of paintings she is working on to help the women and children of Kenya.) To view all of the pieces in this exhibiton please visit http://www.corsegalleryatelier.com. under "OPA Exhibitors". (For a complete list of winners in various categories, please go to www.oilpaintersofamerica.com.)

The demonstration and lecture given by C.W. Mundy was very informative, and I learned many new things or new ways of thinking of things I thought I already knew, in the three hours as we watched him paint and talk, and answer pertinent questions. The talk later given by Neil Patterson, President of Oil Painters of America was very good as well, as he focused on several subjects of interest to all working artists.

I came away with wind in my sails from Jacksonville, having enjoyed my first visit to the eastern side of Floridas shores, and the first glimpse of being in a nationally respected exhibition.