Gus Moran and John Lawson Take Top Honors in Public Art Mural Competition

By CARYN KAUFMAN 

Gus Moran takes the Grand Prize for his work "Leaves of Grass" BRIDGEPORT - Gus Moran was awarded the "Grand Prize" for his work "Leaves of Grass" and John Lawson took the "People's Choice" award for his work "Diligence" in the MainStateVentures 1st Annual Public Art Competition.  The announcement was made at an Awards Presentation and Closing Reception on Wednesday, May 25 at City Lights Gallery, 37 Markle Court, Bridgeport.  Every two months, the competition featured a different piece of artwork by a Bridgeport artist culminating in a public exhibition of all six pieces.  The Grand Prize winner received a $1,000 cash award and a "People's Choice" winner was awarded a $250 cash prize.     "Art is essential to a dynamic and vibrant downtown," states Kim Morque, MainStateVentures, owners of commercial buildings in downtown Bridgeport.  "Art breathes life into a city and brings its own unique expressions of creativity to all who experience it.  It is important to MainStateVentures to sponsor a competition like this as a way to highlight the incredible talent in Bridgeport." (L-R) Ryan McClay, representing MainStateVentures, presents John Lawson with the "People's Choice" award for his work "Diligence."   In addition to Moran and Lawson, competition finalists included kHyal, Kelly Bigelow Becerra, Yolanda Vasquez Petrocelli, and Liz Squillace.  A requirement of the competition was that all of the artists must reside or work in Bridgeport.  The artwork was installed outside on Broad Street across from the Burroughs-Saden Library.   The Grand Prize winner was chosen by a distinguished jury consisting of Robert Curcio, co-founder of the Scope International Art Fairs and Gallerist, New York City; MaryAnn Fahey, Curator and Gallerist, Umbrella Arts, New York City; Emily Larned, Professor, Graphic Design, University of Bridgeport; John Favret, Director, Housatonic Community College Art Department; and Ken Kahn, executive director, Bridgeport Arts & Cultural Council.  From May 5 - May 20, the public had the opportunity to vote for their favorite to win the "People's Choice Award."