Artistic ability showcased at Open Art Show

By Editor | August 6, 2026 |

Photo by Shari Harris
In the adult category, from left, Ellen Reynolds won the People’s Choice award, Patty Burmeister’s painting took first place, Jo Ennis’ rock carving won second place, Robert Shank earned a third place ribbon with his outdoor scene, Brenda Kaiser’s night sky earned honorable mention, Chuck Roling’s lighthouse painting was chosen for honorable mention, and Kierra Lonning’s work received honorable mention. All the works on display were exemplary, and the judges had a difficult time choosing the winners.

Photo by Shari Harris
In the under 18 category, from left, Madison L. holds her first place/people’s choice artwork (black and white sketch) and her honorable mention painting; Zoey B. holds her second place and honorable mention works, Makayla L. has her third place piece, and Aubrielle S. shows her honorable mention night beach scene.

The artist’s reception for an Open Art Show hosted by Isabella Loncosky and the Texas County Museum of Art & History was held Tuesday evening at the museum in Licking. The show reflected the talent that exists in this area, often unseen and underappreciated.

The show had two categories, under 18-years, and 18-years and over, with all styles and media welcome. A people’s choice award, first through third places, and three honorable mentions were chosen in each category. The younger category had 14 entries, with 34 entries in the adult category.

Those attending enjoyed refreshments and making connections with other artists, while eagerly awaiting the announcement of the winners.

Before announcing winners, Isabella Loncosky gave a brief tribute to the late artist Lanie Frick, celebrating her unique talent. Lanie Frick had been a teacher, mentor and friend to Loncosky, was a well-known and respected member of the local art scene, and was nationally known for her work as well. Several selections of Lanie Frick’s art work were on display. In addition, a collection of essays titled, “Of Women and Horses,” which contained a piece, “God’s Gift to Women,” written by Lanie Frick, could be read by those in attendance.

Lanie Frick believed art brought people together, shared Loncosky. She taught that “art doesn’t have to be perfect; it has to be real.”

Loncosky also thanked Museum Director Sandy Campbell for her assistance with the show, and Town & Country Bank-Licking and Sonic-Houston for their partial sponsorship of prizes.

Art show winners in the 18-years and under category:

• First Place and People’s Choice – Madison L.

• Second Place – Zoey B.

• Third Place – Makayla L.

• Honorable Mentions – Madison L., Zoey B., and Aubrielle S.

Art show winners in the 18-years and above category:

• People’s Choice – Ellen Reynolds

• First Place – Patty Burmeister

• Second Place – Jo Ennis

• Third Place – Robert Shank

• Honorable Mentions – Brenda Kaiser, Chuck Roling and Kierra Lonning

To see photos of all entries in the art show, go to www.thelickingnews.net.