The “Black & White” Online Art Competition took place from July to August 06, 2026, showcasing a dynamic and diverse range of artistic talent. Embracing a theme, the competition welcomed every form of artistic expression, from traditional to contemporary. Artists worked across multiple mediums such as acrylic, ink, watercolor, digital art, photography, forged steel, etching, resulting in a rich and varied exhibition. Each entry was carefully reviewed by the jury according to specific evaluation standards: creativity, originality, thematic interpretation, quality of execution, overall composition, artistic technique, and mastery of medium. After a thoughtful selection process, 41 outstanding works were chosen to be part of the final exhibition. Thank you for supporting contemporary art. Enjoy the show.
Cher Pruys
To take my inner visions with my hands and create a work of art for you the viewer …. That is the ultimate in self expression.” Everyday moments really capture my attention. Ones that trigger memories or evoke a strong emotional reaction on my part quickly become my next obsession. By observing these often-fleeting moments I notice that my views on life especially in terms of time and how little of it we as individuals each have, and how one’s own perspective overall can be narrow, thus I use them to spur growth in myself with a desire to enhance the human experience. I truly feel that my artworks are the most rewarding and fulfilling way for me to communicate my inner thoughts and feelings with those around me. I see my art as the puzzle pieces of who I am. The memories of my life thus far that have accumulated to bring me to Cher today. I am able through my paintings of children go back and experience moments in time that had subtle or profound bearing on who I have become, and to recapture the magic in those moments, thus still feeling their impact.
Shawna Hinkel
It has been said that “the eyes are the windows to the soul,” and I have found this to be true. Not only in people, but also in animals – most especially in the great apes. My series “Almost Human” explores the eyes and expressions of these magnificent creatures, looking for the souls in our most closely-related counterparts. Chimpanzees, gorillas, bonobos, and orangutans are so much like us that if you spend a little time with them, you can almost tell what they are feeling. Some are young and playful, some are old and wise, and some are shy and do not want to be bothered. They all have very different personalities and spirits. I want to show the heart of these beautiful animals so more people can find a deeper understanding and affection for them, and learn more about the conservation efforts in place to help them.
Jason Shih
Jason Shih was born in 1972 in Taiwan. In 1991, he began to specialize in metal sculpture when he was a sophomore in the Fine Arts Dept. of Taipei National University of the Arts. In 2001, he graduated from School for American Crafts, Rochester Institute of Technology, USA, and majored in Metal Sculpture. And then, he served as the metal sculptor Albert Paley’s assistant, involved in crafts and public art work practices. Furthermore, he earned his Art Ph. D. from China Academy of Art, China (2015). Now, he lives in Taiwan, and consistently engages in the both areas of sculpture and public art. Jason Shih’s artistic vision is shaped by a diverse array of influences, from contemporary dance to avant-garde fashion. He cites German choreographer Pina Bausch and British designer Alexander McQueen as significant inspirations. Bausch’s explorations of time and space resonate with Shih’s interest in sculpture’s capacity to embody kinetic energy and spatial imagination. McQueen’s innovative approach to contemporary imagery and themes provides Shih with a broad canvas for creative expression.
