Bloomingdale museum hosts Illinois watercolor show

“Watercolor is an underrated medium, it doesn't have the same status as oils,” says Tony Armendariz, director of the Illinois Watercolor Society.But regardless of how some rank watercolors, visitors will see a first-rate exhibit during the society's annual Members' Show through Oct. 22 at the Bloomingdale Park District Museum, 108 S. Bloomingdale Road. The Illinois Watercolor Society was founded in 1981, but upholds an artistic tradition dating back to 1866, when the nation's first watercolor society, the American Watercolor Society, was founded in New York City.Back then, membership was men only, but today, the IWS is open to anyone who wants to advance their watercolor painting skills. Armendariz, a professional graphic designer, attended the American Academy of Art in Chicago and studied watercolor under Irving Shapiro, one of the country's foremost watercolor artists. He returned to his watercolor roots and, under his leadership, the IWS has raised its profile by increasing the number of shows it sponsors. Now the society hosts both the members' and national shows annually.#8220;The national show is open to anyone across the country, however, only the top 60 are selected,#8221; Armendariz said.This exhibition is traditionally held at the Next Picture Show Gallery in Dixon. The members' show, which the Bloomingdale Park District will host for the first time, #8220;is invitational, in which all members #8212; and only members #8212; are invited to submit one painting to exhibit,#8221; Armendariz said.To become a member of the watercolor society, one only has to complete the application and pay annual dues. But to become a signature member, that's earned. Through participation in multiple shows, the member accrues points.Winning an award will earn the artist additional points. Exhibiting in at least two national shows over two years will earn the member the right to include the IWS signature after his or her name.Judging the show will be Catherine Nash, vice-president of the Transparent Watercolor Society of America and experienced artist and teacher. The Transparent Watercolor Society focuses on transparent watercolor, a traditional technique that #8220;allows the paper to shine through the layers of paint,#8221; Nash said. In other words, no opaque or white color paints is permitted. Nash studied at the Chicago Academy of Art and went on to work in advertising. Her background includes pastels and oil portraits, but her love of watercolors was inspired by the Russian artist and teacher Alla Jablokow.In judging the Bloomingdale show, Nash said she will be looking for #8220;a clean presentation, the skill of the artist, individual expression, the subject matter, and if the work is a fresh statement.#8221; After viewing the works on display, visitors to the show may be inspired to follow their own artistic inclinations and join a society themselves. A benefit of joining, Nash said, is #8220;the encouragement that you receive from the other members. It makes for a better presentation.#8221;Nash added that through participation in a society, the member receives recognition and that #8220;boosts the spirit of the artist who wants to learn more.#8221; Societies offer workshops, classes and demonstrations designed to inspire members to improve their own art.The show is housed in one of the unique art spaces in the Chicago area. Originally built as a Baptist church in 1849, the structure has since served as a school, town hall, jail and now a museum. The Bloomingdale Park District restored the building to its 19th-century charm, including the original pine flooring. Amazingly, some of the original glass panes are still in place.The museum will host a complimentary reception open to the public from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 18, during which time the show winners will be announced. These will include the Best in Show, Award of Excellence and Honorable Mention categories.But those who dabble in the arts recognize that any artist who exhibits their expressions in watercolor is already a winner.