The Alice C. Sabatini Gallery’s Topeka Competition 30, April 1-May 13, a juried, arts and crafts exhibition, has attracted entries from as far away as Alaska and as close as Topeka.

The works chosen for this exhibit were selected from 329 entries. Juror Richard Nokin accepted 71 works by 34 artists, 16 of whom are from Kansas. The exhibit showcases a breadth of talent from college students to veteran craftsmen.

Notkin is a full-time studio artist in Helena, Montana. He is known for his craftsmanship and among his most recognized work is a series of unglazed stoneware teapots. For nearly four decades, his work has been exhibited internationally, and is in numerous public and private collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York; Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC; Los Angeles County Museum of Art; Victoria and Albert Museum, London; Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam; and Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park, Japan.

The exhibit’s Opening Reception starts at 5:30pm April 1, with an Awards presentation at 6:30pm. Media may request access prior to the presentation by calling Sabatini Gallery Director Sherry Best at 785-580-4516.

Kansas artist Marjorie Schick (entry pictured above), gives a refreshing and dynamic dimension to jewelry. Surprisingly tiny or over-the-top grand, jewelry is well represented in this year’s competition, which also features a large amount of metalwork, some remarkable sculpture, altered books and larger installation pieces.

“It’s always an exciting show,” Sherry Best, Alice C. Sabatini Gallery director, said. “I encourage people to attend the awards ceremony and meet some of the artists. We find that they enjoy the exhibit more, and come back again and again to discover new things with each visit.”

All events are free and open to the public:

The Topeka Competition First Friday Artwalk
April 1 and May 6, both from 5:30 – 8:30pm

Exhibit Hours and Dates:
Alice C. Sabatini Gallery – April 1, 2011-May 13, 2011
Monday – Friday, 9am–9pm, Saturday 9am–6pm, and Sunday 12pm–9pm
The gallery is located at the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library, 1515 SW 10th Avenue, at the corner of 10th Street and Washburn Avenue. Call 785-580-4515 to arrange a guided tour or for more information, or visit our Digital Branch library at http://www.tscpl.org/gallery.

This exhibit and related programs are sponsored by The Friends of the Topeka and Shawnee County Library and the Friends of Art.