Best in show

Tracy Jones

As the great-great granddaughter of famous Chester County painter, Ida Ellen Ruth Jones, my work draws from a distinct family history of diverse creativity and cultural pride. At an early age I began illustrating and quickly became aware that art would be the lifeblood of my future. My family often traveled across the world which allowed me to draw artistic perspectives from many cultures and lifestyles.

In high school, digital content was starting to boom and there was a pressing need for artistic designers. I was encouraged by my guidance counselors and mentors to use my creative skills to earn a career in graphic design. Over the years I have risen in the ranks as a notable designer but often find that the status quo limitations of business tend to limit my ability to do outside-the-box creative projects. ​

I began painting to get away from the tight constraints of the business world. Painting taught me to expand my perceptions and to have a keen balance of patience and steadfastness in my work. Blending my skills as a graphic designer and as a painter has broadened my creative portfolio into sculpting, printmaking and digital art.

My goal as an artist is to create, educate and inspire my fellow creatives to always push beyond our limits.

@theartistjones

Storytelling Award

Diane Davis

Hi, my name is Diane Davis. I am a mother of two amazing adult kids, married to my best friend for 36 years, and work as a church administrator. I enjoy traveling to places I’ve never been before. In my travels, I enjoy taking pictures of old, run-down structures and buildings. I imagine the vibrant life that once was. Many of these places are being demolished due to the ever-increasing construction around us. Photography is a relaxing pastime for me. It takes me out of the current fast-paced world to a much slower time.

Technical Award

Estrella Olivas

As a native of the Sunshine State, my lifelong passion for art has been a driving force in my creative journey. My body of work, spanning various styles and mediums, is a testament to this endearing love. I use painting and other mediums to bring positive themes and messages to life, all inspired by a verse that begins with “Whatsoever is…”
Through the vibrant use of colors, I aim to illuminate the narratives of diverse subjects, from the beauty of wildlife to the warmth of family and love. 

Most of my work uses various mediums such as acrylic, gouache, oil, and other traditional mediums, as well as digital. I use digital as an illustrative cartoon style for children, while with traditional mediums, I lean towards a semi-realistic style meant for a general audience. My faith-filled journey influences my work, in which the scripture Philippians 4:8 comes to mind. Greatly inspired by the pureness and beauty of wildlife, I will often paint them in a narrative direction. In the recent years, I’ve mainly used oil in my paintings for its vibrant colors, essential to creating eye-catching focal points. 

I recently graduated with a BFA in Illustration from the Ringling College of Art and Design in 2024. I aim to create more paintings that appeal and focus on works with more profound yet uplifting spiritual messages. 

https://www.artebystar.design

@arte_by_star