Art Prize 2011, Casualties

I feel honored to have painted the portraits of the 2010 Michigan Casualties in the war of Afghanistan and Iraq. I have bee an artist now for only four years and I know little about how the art world works. I paint to express my feelings about things. I was a social worker for over 25 years and I miss the career that let me help others and make change were change was possible. I have gained entrance into Art Prize for the last three years. My art is not big nor gaudy. My art is a simple statement about the projects I have taken on. Honoring these Casualties must not be mistaken for a cheap attempt to make some money. For me Art Prize is an opportunity for me to continue my expressions of concerns without the voice I once had to rely on. I do get frustrated with the lack of equal opportunity in this contest. I also realize that I was able to reach more people with Art prize than without it. These are my thoughts about this controversial subject that is so news worthy these days.

Sincerely,

Elaine Hoogeboom