Art winners to be revealed

Some of the best artists in San Diego County are competing in the 11th annual Community Art Competition at the Bonita Museum and Cultural Center.

Through Nov. 12, the museum will showcase 42 paintings from different artists.

“At one point we were asking artists to paint something to do with the city of Chula Vista,” said Art Guild President Linda Smyth. “But then it became hard to verify. Since then we have left the competition with no theme and let the competitors decide.”

First place winner receives a $400 cash prize, second place $300 and third place $200.

A $100 prize will be awarded the People’s Choice Award Oct. 25 and is voted by museum visitors.

Artists are encouraged to sell their paintings, with 20 percent of their proceeds going to the museum.

“The competition is about engaging residents to come see the works. We hope it’ll bring enough pull to encourage residents to go visit other places where there’s art,” said competition judge Ric Todd.

Todd said when judging a photo he focuses on transparency of colors, if a painting moves viewers’ eyes from one corner of the canvas to the other and texture.

Winners will be announced at a reception Saturday, Oct. 22, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the museum.