And The Winner of the Reyes Travel Photo Challenge Is…

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There was not A winner, but TWO winners of the Reyes Travel Photo Challenge, a social media event (#reyestravelart) where fans submitted work that I would ultimately paint. For their trouble? Oh nothing, just a free print of the winning image on canvas. After a hiatus, and with many more new fans, maybe it's time to host the Reyes Travel Art Challenge, Part II?

A print of one of the winners, "Aero No. 33 (Mountainscape)", just before shipping to its new owner, Carole K.

THE BACKSTORY

In April, I invited readers of my newsletter, followers on Instagram, and fans on Facebook to the Reyes Fine Art "Travel Photo Challenge". The winner of the contest would get a free print reproduction of an original artwork I create based on travel-inspired photos they shoot and submit. The artwork I create will become welcome additions to my "Aero Series" (www.aeroscapeart.com). 

The response was overwhelming and it was so much fun fielding your questions and seeing the photos roll in to my inbox! Here's a visual look at my process to go from 60+ submission to a winner:

On the first pass, I was able to narrow 60+ photos down to these 30 images. Decisions, decisions!

Getting from 30 to these 6 was incredibly challenging. I was focusing on colors that suit my Aero Series palette, and dynamic compositions. So many could have made the top 6!

After narrowing down to the 6 semifinalists, I took a week to think things over. Ultimately, it was impossible to pick only one winner, so I chose TWO! I loved the sculptural feel and abstract quality of Carole's aerial mountainscape and the effect of the light hitting the irregular shapes in Jay's cloudscape. Congratulations to Carole, Jay and all who participated.

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One Night in Laguna

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Thanks to artist Fabrice Spies, Rachel and I were invited to attend the VIP Opening of the Festival of Arts in Laguna. This is Fabrice's 2nd year showing in this prestigious juried exhibition and his work did not disappoint. The gala reception had an "Old Hollywood" theme and we did our best to look the part. Great crowd, great time, great art. Way to go Fab!

All dolled up WITH someplace to go! 

Riding the trolley to the Festival 

Fabrice with his parents, who came all the way from France. 

Fabrice's mother-in-law figured out how to print one of his paintings on a cookie as gifts for his guests. Yum!

We LOVE red dots! Congratulations, Bibi!

Fab's painting "Surf Shop" is also featured on merchandise for sale as part of this year's Festival. Awesome PR, and comfortable, too!

Fabrice's display. Definitely check it out if you're looking for a fun SoCal excursion.

If you get the chance, check out this show. There are over 100 artists represented and the covered pavillion setting is unlike any other art show I've attended. Here are the details:

Festival of Arts / Pageant of the Masters
650 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Show Runs July 5 - August 31 from 10AM - 11:30PM
Fabrice is at Booth #48, and there in person Wed-Fri from 5PM to 8:30PM and Sat-Sun from 2PM to 8:30PM. Tell him Brad sent you!

See all of Fabrice's incredible work at www.fabricespies.com
More Festival info at http://www.foapom.com

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