
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: TUESDAY, June 15, 1993                   TAG: 9306150397
SECTION: EDITORIAL                    PAGE: A-6   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

LET THE PUBLIC PICK THE WINNERS

AT THE annual art show in Center in the Square in Roanoke, there were about 50 pieces selected by one paid out-of-town juror. After seeing what won, I'd like to make the following suggestions:

For the next art show, put out the call for works with a theme - something positive and community-related, like "Beauty in the Blue Ridge." Give a deadline for entering. Once all entries are received, put a slip for each piece in a big fishbowl and draw out 50 at random. This is the only fair way to select since art is so subjective. Why pay one person to pick winners according to his or her particular taste? It also frees up funds to do other worthwhile projects in support of arts in the valley. Display the works and allow the public to select those that should receive awards, such as "best in show."

This method will promote art "of, by and for" the people and give everyone an equal chance. It also encourages more involvement and participation by artists as well as the public.

Would those whose works were rejected be interested in putting on a show of our own? MARIAN McCONNELL ROANOKE

by CNB