Every year since its inception 40 years ago, the Vienna Arts Society (VAS) has featured the best of regional artists in a juried “Treasury of Art Show.” To celebrate its 40th anniversary this year, VAS threw a three-day gala at the Vienna Community Center the weekend of Nov. 20, at which the exhibits were augmented by music and hors d’oeuvres. Vienna artist Jean Johnston was voted Artist of the Year by the Treasury of Art committee and the executive committee of VAS.

First place award at the show went to Betty Ganley of Great Falls for her “The Tented Lady” painting. A sailboat sits at low tide docked at a wharf in Maine, images reflected on the water.

The Artist of the Year is chosen on the basis of professional and personal attributes. Johnston said she was shocked to receive this award. “Art is my outlet,” said Johnston. “I don’t know what I’d do without it.” She paints from things around her house, sometimes just gaining inspiration and letting her imagination run free. Still lifes, particularly those focusing on fruit, are her passion.

For more than 25 years, George Dumas, an artist and art patron, has supported the Vienna Arts Society. This year, Dumas received recognition with a piece by Rob Nevitte, which was presented with the George Dumas Award.

Local businesses sponsored the entertainers and the food for Friday and Saturday evenings. The Serenata String Quartet played on Friday night, and the Lennie Cuje Trio performed Saturday night.



THREE HUNDRED and 60 artists entered the juried art show and 139 were admitted. The pieces, juried by Baltimore artist and art teacher Frederic S. Briggs, ranged in price from $125 to $3,800.

Unframed bin pieces started at approximately $35 and went up to several hundred dollars. All pieces were available for sale.

For John Smitty Smith, supporting the arts and community life in Vienna is rewarding. “I know several of the artists here, and I didn’t want to miss the 40th anniversary event. I don’t know if I’m gong to buy something today, but I’m enjoying looking at everything here,” said Smith.

The Vienna Arts Society Art Center is hosting a pre-season sale of artwork and crafts. The center is located at 115 Pleasant St. N.W., Vienna. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

For more information on the Vienna Arts Society and its programs and art center, go to www.viennaartssociety.org or phone 703-319-3971.