Art competition celebrates women, fosters appreciation

Indiana Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman is now accepting submissions for the fourth annual Celebration of Hoosier Women Artists competition.

Winners will be announced in March in honor of Women’s History Month.
Skillman is looking for female Indiana artists to submit installation-ready wall art by Feb. 19. Winners will have their pieces displayed in the lieutenant governor’s office for one year.

“I think that Governor Skillman’s idea of celebrating Women’s History Month with this art competition is fantastic,” said Karen Phipps, whose work was chosen for showcasing last year. “It’s assuring to be reminded that there is still room for beauty and reflection through art. This kind of government support for artists is refreshing and encouraging.”

Phipps’ piece was among seven chosen out of 108 entries. 

Skillman told the LafayetteOnline News in January that visitors to her office are consistently impressed by the art displayed.

Laurie Carpenter, who also had her work chosen last year, said she hopes peoples’ positive reactions to the artwork in the office will inspire them to continue seeking out art in other places.

“A painting in Lt. Gov. Skillman’s office is probably seen by many more people from all walks of life, who may or may not have an interest in art,” Carpenter said. “I can hope that people will be motivated to search out more art in galleries or other shows, learn about it, and in so doing enrich their lives because that is what art really is all about.”

— Lauren Younis