2nd Annual Kit Gilbert Juried Showcase
The Gilbert Center, located in Downtown Ruston, LA is proud to present the 2nd Annual Kit Gilbert Juried Showcase. The Showcase celebrates the creativity and talent of artists from across the country. This exhibition will feature a wide variety of media and styles, offering a platform for both emerging and established artists to showcase their work. Honoring Kit Gilbert’s lasting impact on the arts community, the show aims to foster artistic growth and connection.
Awards/Cash Prizes
Best-In-Show (Juror’s Choice) — $750 Cash Prize
The Best in Show Prize honors the most exceptional work in the exhibition, recognizing an artist whose submission best embodies the spirit of Kit Gilbert’s artistic legacy. This award celebrates creativity, innovation, and technical excellence. The recipient will receive a cash prize of $750 and a token of achievement, marking their work as a standout favorite of our juror.
People’s Choice — $500 Cash Prize
The People’s Choice Award invites visitors to have their say by voting for the artwork that resonates most with them the night of the opening reception. This award celebrates the power of connection and community engagement, reflecting Kit Gilbert’s dedication to fostering artistic dialogue. The winning artist will receive a cash prize of $500 and a token of achievement, marking their work as a standout favorite of the exhibition’s audience.
About our Juror
Julie Crews is an accomplished oil painter who has participated in various exhibitions showcasing her work. Originally from Asheville, North Carolina, she has also called places like southern California—where her awkward high-school self thrived—northern California, which helped her transition into her 20s, and a decade in Louisiana, which expanded her artistic vision, home. Julie earned her Associate of Arts from Brigham Young University-Idaho and now resides in Huntsville, Alabama, with her husband and five children. She operates an open studio and gallery at the historic Lowe Mill Arts and Entertainment, a 122-year-old cotton mill. Julie Crews art reflects the nurturing life of family; while in her studio, she escapes domestic ties, yet her canvases are filled with scenes from her life: backyard fires, children swimming, and moments from her errands around town. The flow of traffic, changes in weather, and the moods of her loved ones significantly influence her work. By recreating these scenes, she captures the emotional undercurrents of her existence, making them a permanent part of her artistic journey.
Honoring Our Namesake
Kit Gilbert, Ruston, LA
Kit Gilbert was a beloved Ruston artist whose creative spirit and impactful work left a lasting legacy in the community. Known for her unique artistic voice and dedication to her craft, Kit inspired many through both her art and her generous presence. Her legacy is rooted in her belief in the power of art, friendship, and fearless living. She championed access to the arts for all and encouraged those around her to create boldly, live unapologetically, and give generously. This annual showcase honors her life, her contributions to the arts, and the enduring influence of her work—reminding us always to embrace life’s beauty, take risks, and leave behind something meaningful.