BEVERLY HILLS—Last month actor, bestselling author and famed local painter Thom Bierdz announced the winners of the 2011 American Art Awards. Since arriving in Hollywood, Bierdz has worked hard to reach all of his goals and enjoy the American dream, and thus he is constantly trying to promote other people and their talents. This week we take a look at one of the AAA winners, that President Bierdz is promoting. Artist Courtney Blanchard won in several categories. I spoke with the accomplished artist this week to discuss what the honor meant to her and to learn more about her artwork.
Q-Is this your first time competing in AAA?
A-“Yes, this was my first time competing in AAA and it was definitely a great experience.”
Q-What was your category and what place did you win?
A-“I actually won First Place in two categories; Pastels and Portrait of Someone Famous. The First Place for Pastels was of a portrait I did of my friend’s baby and the First Place for a Portrait of Someone Famous was a black and white, chalk pastel piece of Marilyn Monroe.”
Q-Will you be looking for ways to further your exposure within the art community?
A-“Yes, of course! I am actually working on building my network right now. I recently did a portrait for Mr. J.W. Marriott as a part of their annual Art Night and I am hoping to continue to build art relationships as each opportunity is presented.”
Q-What is your major goal regarding your work as an artist?
A-“I love doing portraits and I love the reactions people have when they receive my work. Therefore, my major goal not only consists of aspiring to do portraiture as a long term career, but I’d also like to make Fine Arts an obtainable commodity. I want to make the equivalent of 16th century Grand Portraits for the everyday occasions of today!”
Q-Do you have a website where people can see your artwork?
A-“Tommy, I don’t have my website up and running yet, but for the meantime, my work can be found at www.facebook.com/courtneyblanchardpastelpaintings. I submit progress photos of my work daily and my entire portfolio of commissioned work can be found in the (Photos) section.”
The American Art Awards is an annual international competition open to artists in 56 categories ranging from Art Brut to Realism. The event recognizes commercial talent in painting, photography and sculpture.
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