The “Open 2026” Online Art Competition took place from June to July 02, 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 ink, acrylic, watercolor, graphite, charcoal, oil, pastel, colored pencil, digital art, photography, stainless steel, aluminum 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, 52 outstanding works were chosen to be part of the final exhibition. Thank you for supporting contemporary art. Enjoy the show.
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.
Allan Gorman
Allan Gorman is a contemporary fine artist based in Jersey City, NJ with a unique artistic vision cultivated by a distinguished commercial career that helped refine a sense of aesthetics and unwavering commitment to excellence that continues to define his artistic process to this day. There’s a special magic made when materials, colors, and contrasts play and tease each other— and in those details, geometries, and intersections that invite our eyes to journey across, through and beyond. My art is an attempt is to capture some of that unique compositional alchemy that can change our way of seeing, and maybe once in a while, touch our souls.
Marvin Shafer
Shafer spent roughly 20 years as a goldsmith creating one-of-a-kind jewelry before focusing increasingly on sculpture and kinetic art. Over the following decades he produced more than 1,000 commissioned mobiles installed in homes, businesses, and public spaces around the world. His work emphasizes movement, balance, color, and light. His sculptures have been exhibited through galleries, museum stores, and invitational exhibitions, including venues associated with: The Art Institute of Chicago The Whitney Museum Store The Smithsonian Gift Store The Cleveland Museum Store He has also completed numerous architectural commissions, including large-scale lobby sculptures, mobiles, and public artworks in Illinois, Texas, Florida, and New Jersey
TALENT PRIZE
