Jurors Statement

"The function of art is to do more than tell it like it is-it's to imagine what is possible." -bell hooks

I would like to say that it has been a wonderful experience participating as juror for the 2024 Durham Art Guild Exhibition. All the submissions were complex, eclectic and richly moving. Artists from different points in their development and careers shared samples of their life long passion, art. Art after all is a tool for problem solving because it requires being creative and resourceful. Those who excel most in life are those who dare to struggle, dare to think in unconventional ways.

There were so many unique artworks in this year's selection at DAG that it prompted me to write and share notes to every single artist selected for this exhibit. The Durham Art Guild is a vessel, a conduit, a hub if you will, with many roles. The most important is being that of a platform for the community. Every community needs this type of outlet. Creative spaces cultivate problem solvers and illuminate possibilities. It is vital for societies to evolve by supporting and maintaining these cultural beacons.

I would like to thank, Dara Baldwin and Liz Gage, for inviting me to jury this exhibit. And to all the creative practitioners who participated. Finally, to my special friend, Wendy Page Hower. A light that shines so brightly.

-william cordova