Our America - Juror Comments

Cindy Horovitz Wilson

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First and foremost, Congratulations to all the entrants. I was impressed by all the unique and varied ways you approached the challenge, from the beauty of our landscape to the cultural symbols, traditions and freedom of speech in visual form.

I know every juror says the same thing…how difficult it was to isolate and give praise to some works when all the work submitted was of quality. Truth be told, the first time I looked at the folder of images, I felt it to be a daunting task. My strategy quickly developed by defining what the theme meant to me, and the criteria by which I felt some images to be more evocative. 

Emotional storytelling 

Does the image invoke the imagination; expand awareness? 

Is the message – idea mood or narrative - clear? 

Do I see the subject in an original and unique perspective

Does the image have visual impact? 

Compositional strength – is there a clear subject? Is there a sense of balance, depth and design?

Do the visual elements express the purpose of the message?

Technical execution

Proper settings, exposure, color balance

Print quality

Presentation

Once I had a sense of the entries, making some initial decisions, I viewed the exhibition itself. Sometimes the online representations do not do the pieces justice. As expected, seeing the work firsthand changed some of my selections. 

Thank you very much for this opportunity to share my preferences.

Never Forget by Vicky McGrath

First Place

From the first time I saw this image, it resonated with me. Vicky’s use of symbols, composition and storytelling create an emotionally powerful message without being overbearing and maudlin. That the rose is positioned on the name of a fallen American adds a poignant personal connection to the juxtaposition of the symbols of the corporate American dream backdrop.

Philly, America’s First Dawn by Andy Lowen

Second Place

This image was one that in viewing the online submission, didn’t carry the narrative as well as in person. The symbolism of empty chairs under the flag with the word ‘vote’ communicates a strong message regarding a right and privilege that some take for granted. Do the empty chairs represent ambivalence about voting, or that everyone has run off to the polls? The question raised by this image has no answer except to move the viewer to ask the same of her/himself.

Faded by David Pinkham

Third Place

The flag is another true American symbol that can carry different meaning by virtue of the way it is presented to the viewer. This black and white image of faded flags used as window dressing is metaphorically removed from the realm of patriotism. They have been left to bake in the sun, abandoned as symbols of freedom in an empty storefront.

  • Honorable Mention: The Watcher by Jeff Reynolds

    I found this image of one of our national symbols of freedom to be remarkable in its excellent portrait style. The strength and dignity of this eagle is well-executed compositionally and technically.

  • Honorable Mention: California Coast by Emily Duwam

    One of the more powerful aspects of America is our beautiful landscapes. This image captures the grandeur of the California coast in effective atmospheric light and magic color. The vertical composition enhances the majestic nature of the dramatic cliffs.

  • Revolutionary 2 by Veronica Bruno

    his image creates the chaos and drama of the American Revolution as an event etched into our collective history. Veronica’s capture of the musket fire and the smoky haze of battle carry a visceral sense of action and a decisive moment. Excellent choice of shutter speed to capture the flash and sparks of a Redcoat musket.