ADSO Celebrate FWB Pirates Art Challenge a Treasure

The Arts & Design Society (ADSO) held a reception announcing the winners of its Celebrate FWB Pirates art challenge on Friday, May 3, in Fort Walton Beach

Local artists had been invited to submit their pirate-inspired art to the ADSO gallery to herald the upcoming 68th Annual Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival May 16 to 20 in Fort Walton Beach.

From ADSO’s volunteer staff to the artists and all those in attendance, everyone was impressed with the art submissions.

ADSO President Helen Harris, was pleased with the event which proved engaging for everyone. “We did the Pirate Show a few years ago—it was so much fun. I am glad we are doing it again and love the pirate dress-up once more. The artwork is so eclectic and imaginative. I hope everyone enjoys it and has fun.”

Captain Billy Bowlegs 68, his Queen, and members of the Krewe of Bowlegs joined the fun to peruse the 26 art entries on display. A range of styles and media gave the judges a challenge in selecting the winners.

Winners

• 1^st Place: Terry Johnston with Lost Booty, acrylic
• 2^nd Place: Pam Folse with Jack, ebony pencil
• 3^rd Place: Rick Otoupalik with Prisoner, clay

Honorable Mentions

• Louis Cerrato with Best Dressed at Billy Bowlegs LXIV, photography/digital art
• Kimberly Heartsong with Ghost Ship Sunset, pastel
• Wally Ratcliffe with Arrr…Sunken Treasure, watercolor
• Blair Supplee with Voyage of the Damned, digital art

The thought-provoking artwork exhibit highlighting a variety of styles and mediums evocative of Pirate Art will be on display now through May 24, in the ADSO Gallery located at 17 First Street SE.