Area artists awarded at Vasaloppet Art Show

The Vasaloppet Art Show saw a record number of visitors over the weekend, and area artists were recognized for their submissions.

According to a news release from the Kanabec County Art Association, the art show — held in conjunction with the ski race — welcomed 733 visitors over the weekend of Feb. 6-8.

The gallery featured 81 works created by 35 artists, including several first-time entrants.

On Friday, Minnesota artist Surelle Strike served as the gallery guide. She selected Eli Sorenson's "Tooth Fairy," Don Semelhack's "Untitled 1," and Bonnie Carlson's "Elephant" for the Judge's Choice Awards.

Exhibition visitors voted for their favorite works in multiple categories. The results are:

Most Emotional Response

1. "?Revolution?" by Val Raivo

2. "SHE Melts ICE" by Gayla Olson and "?Tipping the Balance" by Val Raivo

3. "Blowin' in the Wind" by Carl Long, "Hazy Sunset" by Peg Skalicky, and "Into the Wilderness" by Darlene Ziegler

Most Creative

1. "Hazy Sunset" by Peg Skalicky

2. "Zoom" by Keith Raivo

3. "Blowin' in the Wind" by Carl Long

Favorite

1. "Evening Trail" by Jeff Bracken

2. "Into the Wilderness" by Darlene Ziegler

3. "Blowin' in the Wind" by Carl Long and "A Haven in Winter" by Dee Kotaska

Gallery guide Surelle Strike is pictured with Jeff Bracken’s “Evening Trail."