The Trawick Prize: Bethesda Contemporary Art Awards, a prestigious juried art competition hosted by the Bethesda Arts & Entertainment District, celebrated its 2024 winners during a special awards reception Wednesday evening.
Pedro Ledesma III, of Alexandria, Va., received the coveted “Best in Show” title and a $10,000 cash prize. The judges recognized Ledesma for his compelling portrayal of issues affecting small-town America through his photography, which explores social and economic inequities.
Scott Pennington of Baltimore, Md., earned second place, along with a $2,000 award. The judges awarded James Terrell from Washington, D.C., third place and $1,000 for his contribution to the competition. The Young Artist Award went to Paloma Vianey of Washington, D.C., who received $1,000 for her promising work.
Ledesma’s Background
Ledesma’s artistic journey is deeply influenced by his mixed Korean-Mexican heritage and experiences abroad. His shift from capturing everyday beauty to addressing social change reflects his commitment to justice and equality. These themes also emerged during his economics studies. Ledesma holds a Bachelor of Science from MIT and a Master of Arts from Columbia University.
Finalists and Judges
This year’s finalists included Rosemary Feit Covey, David Enrique Guarnizo, Rebecca Oh, Tony Shore, and others, all of whom displayed exceptional talent.
A panel of artists and educators judged the competition. It included Dr. Jennifer Figg, professor of art at Towson University; Tatiana Flores, professor of art history at the University of Virginia; and David Page, sculptor-in-residence at American University and 2004 Trawick Prize winner.
Founded in 2003 by Carol Trawick, the Trawick Prize is one of the largest regional awards recognizing visual artists. Trawick, a dedicated community activist and founder of the Jim and Carol Trawick Foundation, has supported numerous nonprofits in Montgomery County. She also established the Bethesda Painting Awards in 2005.
Artwork
About the Trawick Prize
The Trawick Prize has awarded nearly $300,000 in prize money and showcased the work of over 170 regional artists. The exhibition featuring finalists’ work is open at Gallery B through September 29, 2024. Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, from noon to 5 p.m. An opening reception will be held on Friday, September 13, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Gallery B is located at 7700 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite E.
Related:
Gallery Showcases Artwork from Bethesda Contemporary Art Awards Finalists
