Local Artists Awarded at Art Trust Exhibition

General Press Release

July 15, 2020

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Ottawa County Art Trust adds new works to its collection


Ottawa County and the Holland Area Arts Council, today, announced which works have been purchased to become part of the permanent collection of the Ottawa County Art Trust. Ten pieces were chosen for purchase awards from a total of 46 entries by 29 artists who live or work in Ottawa County. 

The third annual exhibition is open for public viewing in the Ottawa County Administration Building at 12220 Fillmore in West Olive from 8AM to 5PM. Masks and social distancing are required. The exhibit closes on September 11. 

Purchase Awards were given to:  (Listed in no particular order)

Maggie Bandstra - Marigolds - Prismacolor Colored Pencil

Bob Bosgraaf - Morning Nap - Acrylic 

Amy Peterson - Evening Coneflowers - Soft Pastel

Patrica Flynn - Lotus Batik - Watercolor Batik

Diane Lemmen - Michigan 2 - Egg Tempura

Marilyn Troutman - Rosy Mound - Pastel

Jan Winiarski - Pigeon Creek at Hemlock Crossings -  Oil

Carolyn Stich - Van Raalte Farm - Gouache and Ink

Judy Johns - Morning View - Acrylic

Tanner Bosma - Spring Tulips - Acrylic 

Artist and curator, Chris Protas, served as juror for the 2020 show, selecting the newest additions to the permanent collection.  “I want to thank Mary Sundstrom and Shannon Felgner for the honor of jurying this year's Ottawa Art Trust Exhibition. I was amazed but not surprised at all the beautiful work," said Chris Protas. "This community has so much to offer in the way of art, and it’s very heartening to see Ottawa County getting behind an initiative that will have such a meaningful impact both on individual artists as well as the cultural legacy of this area.”

Establishing an Art Trust is a tangible way to demonstrate Ottawa County's commitment to culture, creativity and innovation. At the same time, the trust will preserve a legacy of art for generations of residents to come. 

Residents can get involved by:

  • Viewing and Appreciating the art at the exhibition.
  • Purchasing art from the show for their homes or offices. A portion of the sale goes to the trust.
  • Purchasing exhibition pieces to gift to the Art Trust. Sponsoring a piece is a thoughtful way to show dedication to the art community or to honor a loved one, family member or mentor. Sponsored pieces will be marked with a plate, recognizing the gift. 
  • Donating to the Art Trust which will enable it to purchase more works. 

Those wishing to make a purchase or gift may contact Shannon Felgner with Ottawa County or Mary Sundstrom of the Holland Area Arts Council.

Artists who missed this year's exhibition can look forward to the event in 2021.

The Art Trust was established in 2018. Ottawa County and the Holland Area Arts Council plan to hold the exhibition annually to grow the County’s fine art collection. The Ottawa County Art Trust will build a permanent library of artwork created by resident artists. As the collection grows, the works will be on display in various county locations.