DUBOIS – DuBois native Perry Winkler finds himself very close to winning a contest that could make his artwork available across the country. Winkler is competing in the Kirkland’s Inc. “Next Great American Artist” contest. The contest is in honor of the chain’s 40th anniversary.
Not only is Winkler competing, but he finds himself in the homestretch of the competition. Out of over 3,500 applicants, Winkler finds himself in the top 10. The winner of the competition will win $5,000. On top of that, the winning artist will have their featured work sold in Kirkland’s 350 stores across the country.
“I was really glad I made it to the top 10,” said Winkler. “About a month ago I was called told I was a finalist.”
Winkler also added the exposure from the competition has been amazing as well.
“It’s amazing the response I’ve got from this,” said Winkler.
To win the big prize, Winkler needs your help.
The winner of the competition is decided by the public. People can vote at www.kirklands40th.com. Winkler’s painting is titled “My Favorite Corner,” and is painted in watercolor. According to Winkler, the painting is a study of light and shadow, positives and negatives.
“A room like that has constant beauty,” said Winkler.
Winkler heard about the competition from friend and fellow artist Deena Greenburg. While he was hesitant at first, Greenburg sort of talked Winkler into entering the competition.
“She felt my work would fit well in these stores,” said Winkler.
Winkler has been interested in painting for as long as he can remember. He said he remembers trying to do portraits of his parents before first grade. After he graduated in 1976, he was hired as the art director for Naegely Outdoor Advertising in Asheville, North Carolina. Around this time he began studying under artist Roger Nipress.
Winkler returned to the area in 1989. Since then he founded the Winkler Gallery of Fine Art in DuBois, a co-op representing 17 regional artists. For more information on the Winkler Gallery of Fine Art, go to www.winklergalleryoffineart.org.