Hundreds of visitors enjoyed original works from select artists from across southwest Michigan and northern Indiana during Up Front Art Walk, which took place during the 25th annual Dogwood Fine Arts Festival in May.

Mediums for the art work submitted for the multiple day art show included oil, watercolor, glass, mixed medium, wood, ceramics, and photography. The original artworks were on display in merchant windows for 264 hours during this eleven day event.

The festival awarded cash prizes to artists in three categories: Best of Show, First Runner-up and People’s Choice. Works were scored by professional guest judges: Marc Dombrosky, chair, department of visual and performing arts, Southwestern Michigan College, Artist Lea Bult. The People’s Choice as voted by the viewing public.

Up Front Art Walk Chair Kris Soenen announced the winners of the event underwritten by Starks Family Funeral Homes-Clark Chapel.

Best of Show was awarded to Bryan Graham for “Auto Biography” hosted at The Front Street Crossing, COA. The Best of Show Award consists of $250 and a Gallery show later in the year. Jason Wesaw received the First Runner-up ribbon and $150 for “Universe Spirit” hosted by Kim McGregor and Edward Jones Investments.

Unable to attend was Barbara Hogarth, winner of the People’s Choice Award and $100, for “Sunset Over Troubled Waters” hosted by 1st Source Bank.

Starks and Clark Chapel invested in the arts as sponsors of this event. Starks and Clark are the original sponsors of Art Walk and have continued that commitment for eight consecutive years.