The Tipp City Area Arts Council has announced the winners of its 2026 Fine Art Exhibition, held April 13 through 25 at the Tipp Center. The show featured over 70 artists from the Miami Valley region and beyond, with more than 135 pieces on display. An artist reception on April 12 honored this year’s winners.

Connie Gilhooly took Best of Show in the Amateur category for “Sunbeams in the Trees,” while Paul Rienzo earned Best of Show in the Advanced category for “Monkeys in the Cupboard.” Awards were given across ten media categories in each division, including acrylic, water media, oils, pastel, drawing, three-dimensional, photography, mixed media and fiber.

Several special honors were also presented. Phillip Erbaugh received the Ellen Cotterman Award for “Country Sunset,” Alana Adamo won the Jeryl Laux Award for “Tear Catcher,” and Rebekah Russ took the People’s Choice Award for “Waterfall.” The Glass Brush Award, recognizing individuals who have shaped Tipp City’s art community, went to Steve and Sally Watson, owners of the Hotel Gallery at Second and Main Streets. The couple has operated the gallery since the mid-1970s and is credited with helping anchor the downtown revival.

Source: Tipp City Area Arts Council