By Felix Hoover

For YourNewsColumbus.com

Posted 05-08-09

 

 

The artist behind the top-rated work at the Evolution of the Girl Child exhibit at the King Arts Complex said she was surprised to receive the honor announced Thursday evening, May 7, at the King Arts Complex.

 

Nora Musu of Liberia, whose work was judged Best of Show, received $500 during the opening reception at the complex in the Elijah Pierce Gallery.

 

"I'm a little bit surprised; I'm one of the newest artists," she said. "I gave it my all."

 

The judges also picked Janet George as top emerging artist, which earned her $350.

 

Each of the 20 artists, all African-American women, is to receive a stipend in appreciation for their work as part of the Sistahs of the Arts collective.

 

A variety of mediums were used to create the works that reflect many influences on the artists from childhood to adulthood, said Beverly Whiteside, founder of Sistahs of the Arts.The mission of the collective is "to educate, encourage, inspire and provide a creative tie to the community for the purpose of advancing the arts."

 

Bettye Stull, adviser of the colletive the past two years, said the artists "came together to share their sisterhood and also their artwork."

 

Ornately decorated rocking chairs that suggest African thrones caught the eye of many visitors to the gallery, including Debbie Butler, who said their unique designs appealed to her.

 

For Maggie Livisay, Queen Brooks' bright blue mannequin "Spirit Beautiful," made an instant impression.

 

The exhibit, made possible by a grant from the Andy Warhol Foundation, for the Visual Arts, runs through June 22 at the complex, 867 Mount Vernon Ave.