Clarkston artist Margret Grace McDermott is among five artists vying for the top spot in the 2017 MI Great Artist online competition and a share of more than $16,000 in cash and prizes.
McDermott’s 24-by-18-inch oil on panel and linen piece is titled “Tête-à-Tête: Champagne and Roses.”
The MI Great Artist winner will receive a $1,500 cash prize. Four runners-up will each receive a $375 cash prize and other services.
“These are supremely talented individuals,” said Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson. “Their skill and passion is evident in the incredible works they’ve created. I encourage everyone to go to Park West Gallery and see these wonderful pieces in person.”
The finalists also include Meredith Lea Bailey, watercolor on paper, Rochester Hills; Michael Bollerud, graphite pencil on paper, Taylor; Thomas Tunney, oil on panel, Commerce Township; and Jennifer M. Whaley, graphite on paper, Rochester Hills.
Patterson and Albert Scaglione, founder and CEO of Park West Gallery in Southfield, launched the contest in 2012 as a quality of life initiative to identify and support up-and-coming artists. They will announce the winner during an Oct. 25 reception at Park West. It begins at 6 p.m. and is free and open to the public. The work of the five finalists will be on display at the gallery from Oct. 26-Nov. 2.