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   Local Longville artist Tom Kutschied was recently recognized for his artistic talent by taking best in show at  Jaques Art Center’s juried art show on Saturday, June 22. Juried art shows require the entries to be approved by a judge before they compete. 

   Jaques’ theme for the show was “Head in the Clouds.” This is a very broad term that artists can use their creativity to interpret the theme. With Kutschied being an Air Force veteran, his first idea was an Air Force fighter jet with a pilot’s head superimposed on the bottom left of the scene. The painting is aptly named “High Flight Guardians.” 

   After a couple of months working on the oil painting, Tom’s preferred art medium, “High Flight Guardians” won best in show. This is the highest award that an art piece can win at a show. “I knew this piece was something special... I was almost hoping nobody would buy it.”

   Tom was not present at the awards show, as he had also entered a piece in a competition in Red Wing, his home town. One of Tom’s favorite things about art shows is the social aspect. It is a great opportunity when many talented and like-minded people can come together and display their talent for the masses. 

   Tom also loves to use his talent to add to the local community. Next time you drive through Longville, look in the windows of businesses such as Frosty’s and Heartland Real Estate to see his famous window paintings. Some of his artwork is sold in Longville’s Gallery of New Creations if you would like to buy a unique piece from Tom. He also donates a lot of his art to local banquets throughout the year, so make sure to attend those to get a chance of winning a piece from him! 

   The Jaques Art Center will host their show for the next 6 weeks, so if you would like to see the piece in person and art from many other talented artists, head over to Aitkin to see the show and support local artists!

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