Austin Art Space announced the selection of artwork to be featured in its second annual juried awards show and exhibit focused on everything Texas, entitled ‘What Texas Means to Me’ running July 2 – August 28, 2010. The show’s theme is built entirely upon artists’ impressions of any aspect of Texas’ past, present or future. And, those inspirations proved to be wide-ranging from abstract and contemporary to representational and traditional. Pastel, oil, watercolor, acrylic, collage, mixed media, photography and sculpture are among the media included.

The final 39 art pieces were chosen from over 150 entries from artists as near as Austin and Georgetown to Dallas, Houston, and Lubbock to as far away as Missouri, Arizona, Maryland and South Africa. In all, works by 34 different artists were selected for presentation.

The juror for this year’s show was well-known Austin artist Phillip Wade. A graduate of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia, with a MFA in Painting from the University of Texas, he currently mentors and teaches at the Austin Museum of Art. His work resides in several galleries and innumerable collections around the country including the Driskill Hotel, Mr. and Mrs. Ben Bentsen, and actress Diane Ladd.

Valerie Walden, co-founder and director of Austin Art Space commented, “This awards show gets better every year. The range of styles is impressive, and the breadth and depth of the interpretations are inspiring. We have introspective examination and liberal symbolism contrasted against more traditional representations from across Texas, from out of state and from another hemisphere. We are exceedingly pleased with the quality of the work submitted. At least 300 people attended the opening reception last year. We expect a Texas-sized turnout this year, too.”

All patrons are invited to attend the Artists’ Reception on Saturday, July 10, 2010 from 6:00pm-9:00pm. Wine and hors d'oeuvres will be served along with Dripping Springs vodka. Live music will be provided by the T Jarrod Trio, and many of the artists are expected to be on hand to discuss their work. Mr. Wade will award first and second prizes along with honorable mentions at that time. Many of the pieces will also be offered for sale. The exhibit continues during regular gallery hours, ending on Saturday, August 28.