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VOICE 2026 SHOW
VOICE 2026 AWARDS SHOW
Matthew Couper
Matthew Couper
Juror Statement — Self Discovery
Juror Statement — Self Discovery
Exploring the self through artwork can be complex, particularly when artists are still in the early stages of developing their own voice. Throughout art history—going back to the first cave art—artists have approached questions of identity, transformation, and self-understanding through metaphor and symbolism rather than direct autobiography. In many cases, the most compelling works are those where, to paraphrase the Russian playwright Anton Chekhov, the artist is not answering questions but asking them.
Exploring the self through artwork can be complex, particularly when artists are still in the early stages of developing their own voice. Throughout art history—going back to the first cave art—artists have approached questions of identity, transformation, and self-understanding through metaphor and symbolism rather than direct autobiography. In many cases, the most compelling works are those where, to paraphrase the Russian playwright Anton Chekhov, the artist is not answering questions but asking them.
The submissions to the Self Discovery category demonstrated thoughtful engagement with ideas of identity, personal reflection, and the roles we inhabit within culture and society. It is very encouraging to see both conceptual thinking and formal skill developing within many of the students’ practices.
The submissions to the Self Discovery category demonstrated thoughtful engagement with ideas of identity, personal reflection, and the roles we inhabit within culture and society. It is very encouraging to see both conceptual thinking and formal skill developing within many of the students’ practices.
The Scottish painter Alan Davie once wrote that an artist must 'sell knowledge in order to buy bewilderment'. The works that stood out in this category embrace that idea by allowing space for uncertainty and reflection. Rather than attempting to resolve meaning too quickly, they invite viewers to consider moments of transformation, shifting identity, and the ongoing process of self-understanding, while demonstrating how idea and form can come together to create images that remain open, thoughtful, and resonant.
The Scottish painter Alan Davie once wrote that an artist must 'sell knowledge in order to buy bewilderment'. The works that stood out in this category embrace that idea by allowing space for uncertainty and reflection. Rather than attempting to resolve meaning too quickly, they invite viewers to consider moments of transformation, shifting identity, and the ongoing process of self-understanding, while demonstrating how idea and form can come together to create images that remain open, thoughtful, and resonant.
Jo Russ Juror Statement
Contemporary Issues
Addressing contemporary issues in artwork can be challenging, particularly when the subject matter is potentially polarizing for viewers. However, throughout art history, there have been artists focusing on important social issues in their work; Caravaggio, Clementine Hunter, Otto Dix, Ana Mendieta, David Wojnariowicz and Barbara Kruger being just a few examples. At times controversial, their works continue to exist as cultural markers of significance, sparking both individual reflection and broader community dialogue.
All the works submitted to VOICE: Contemporary Issues demonstrate a deep level of consideration and observation, and I encourage the students to continue to develop their specific interests. The works I awarded stood out for their visual impact along with a sensitivity in encouraging viewer consideration of a variety of topics including the relationship of humans with our ecosystem, community structure, cultural connection, social interactions and political power.
"The purpose of art is to lay bare the questions that have been concealed by the answers." — James Baldwin
James Bousema Juror Statement
Conceptual Surrealism Issues
"I appreciate all the family, friends, and loved ones who came out to support the great work of these talented kids. As a former LVA student and now full time artist, using my voice through my skills in order to pursue my passions is what this is all about. The kids who've submitted to this competition have demonstrated that they're all on the right track to do the same. The insane skill level, determination to express themselves, and commentary on the world around them is well beyond their years. I'm more than happy to help award these talented young artists and truly hope that they continue to boldly use their voices on their artistic journeys"
-James
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