Our ninth Art competition “Animals” started in September 2025 and concluded on October 02, 2025. Art Room Gallery received entries from many countries around the world: Canada, UK, Australia, Italy, France, Taiwan, Hungary and USA. The Animals theme in this competition included a diversity in types, styles and mediums (acrylic, pastel, oil, scratchboard, watercolor, pencil, digital art, photography, cast bronze). The following evaluation criteria has been used for judging the artwork: creativity, interpretation of the theme, originality and quality of art, overall design, demonstration of artistic ability, and usage of medium. Jury decided to select 48 artworks for inclusion in the exhibition. Aside from First, Second, and Third place Jury also presented Merit awards and Honorable Mention awards.
Thank you, and enjoy the exhibition!
Daniele Desourdy - Curiosite
(acrylic)
24'' x 20''
Statement:
I have always felt a deep bond with nature and animals, an attachment that has shaped who I am today. With a mother who was an artist recognized both in Quebec and internationally, I grew up in a creative universe where art was an integral part of my life. This upbringing nurtured my passion and taught me to observe the world with sensitivity and care. I graduated from FACE (Fine Arts Core Education) in Montreal, a school dedicated to artistic development, then obtained a diploma in visual arts at Cégep du Vieux Montréal, where I explored various creative projects. My artistic journey naturally led me to wildlife art, inspired by the richness of flora and fauna. I apply the details of the fur, feathers, and unique forms of each bird and mammal, seeking to capture their essence with precision and realism. I draw inspiration from my own photos taken on nature outings, or from those of photographers with whom I collaborate. Painting wildlife is much more than a technique; it's a way for me to stay in touch with this fascinating world and share with others the delicate beauty I perceive. Over the years, I've had the honor of receiving several awards and distinctions, including a memorable exhibition at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris and two gold medals at the Prix International des Professionnels de l’Art, awarded by Mondial Art Academia. Since 2017, I have been devoting myself full-time to my art in the suburbs of Montreal. I am well surrounded and encouraged by my spouse, my four children, and my pets. I am very grateful that my works are now part of private collections in Canada and internationally.
Statement:
Born in Gaspésie, this artist has earned a distinguished place in the art world through her talent and passion. A graduate in visual arts, she has developed a unique technique for painting horses in acrylic, capturing their grace and power with remarkable precision. Her mastery of the medium has been acquired self-taught through countless pictorial explorations. What makes the artist unique is that she does not simply paint horses — she meets them, both in Quebec and abroad. Armed with her camera, she draws boundless inspiration from these encounters in different settings. Once back in her studio, filled with creative energy, her imagination “gallops” to life, transcending the individuality and personality of each subject. Her unconditional love for animals shines through in every piece, where every detail is meticulously crafted, reflecting her perfectionism and unrelenting passion. Also working in the public service, she skillfully balances discipline and creativity — a combination that has earned her recognition from peers in numerous competitions and art events. Her works pay tribute to the beauty of nature and the nobility of horses, continuing to inspire and captivate all who behold them.
Cher Pruys - Bunch A Bull
(acrylic on hot press)
Statement:
Cher Pruys, ASAA SCA, IGOR, AAPL, CSAA, AMS, LMS, OSA, MAA, CFA, NOAPS, PSOA, AWA., AAOA. "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." Cher Pruys was born in Regina. Over the years she lived in many places including Saskatoon, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Fort Frances, settling into her present home in Devlin, on the banks of the Rainy River with her husband Mark, and pets. By age three, Cher was seldom found without a drawing tool in hand. She worked in pencil, charcoal and ink over the years, picking up a paintbrush at the age of 35. Beginning with oil paints, she found her chosen mediums in acrylic, watercolor and gouache, and her passion for hyperrealism. Although self-taught, her dedication and talent has seen her work juried into 913 International exhibits. She has won 1384 awards for her work in the International Juried Exhibits. Her work has graced the covers of 3 books, 43 magazines, including The Best Of Acrylic Fall 2021, cover of the May 2022 Arabella Magazine, #20 Hyperrealism Magazine with “Girls Girls Girls”, & #21 with “The Young Cowboy”, Artists & Illustrators March 2024 Artistonish 2024 July edition, Observica Elite 2024,Art Closeup Magazine#26 Jan. 2025,