Rothwell tops Inspired Palouse exhibit

A trio of entrants enjoy the “Inspired Palouse” art reception Saturday at The Center in Colfax. They are, from left, Francisco Aguilar, Colfax, third prize winner; Rob Stanard, Colfax, two honorable mentions, and Gayle Havercroft, Spokane, second prize and Artist’s Choice award winner. Nancy Rothwell of Colfax took the $300 top prize, and Carla Danielson of Hooper won the People's Choice award.

The Inspired Palouse art entries, which were displayed with prices for purchase, generated strong interest but netted just four sales.

An acrylic painting of the Almota area by Nancy Rothwell of Colfax won the $300 top prize Saturday in the Colfax Arts Council's "Inspired Palouse" exhibit at The Center. Approximately 75 people attended the reception, which was highlighted by the awards presentation.

Gayle Havercroft of Spokane won the $200 second prize with a block print of the Thornton elevator, and Francisco Aguilar of Colfax won the $100 third-place prize with a night photo of a homestead.

Carla Danielson of Hooper won the $100 People's Choice award with her photograph of a heron. She also received honorable mention from one of the judges.

Havercroft also won the artists' choice award.

Rob Stanard of Colfax received honorable mention from two of the judges with his painting of the Roger Brothers Seed plant.

The artworks were posted for sale during the exhibit, but only four items were purchased. Many of those who attended the reception were the artists and photographers who encouraged Arts Council organizers to repeat the contest and exhibit next year.