Trawick Prize Marks 10 Years; ‘Best of the Best’ Competition Announced For Winning Artwork

They’ve already won “Best in Show” in the past. Now, a competition is set to determine which Trawick Prize-winning artist is the "Best of the Best" over the last decade.

The Trawick Prize, an annual juried contemporary art competition founded by Bethesda community activist and philanthropist Carol Trawick in 2003, is marking its 10th year. To celebrate the anniversary, a special exhibit is planned to show the work of the artists who have taken "Best in Show" for the past 10 years.  

Thirty jurors who have judged the winning work since the competition’s inception will determine which artist will receive the “Sapphire Award” and $10,000.

The public also can also vote online to determine a “People’s Choice” award winner, who will receive $1,000. Voting begins Sept. 17 and will close Oct. 19 through a partnership with Bethesda Magazine, according to a Bethesda Arts & Entertainment District news release.

The Trawick Prize, produced by the Bethesda Arts & Entertainment District and the Bethesda Urban Partnership, has exhibited the work of more than 100 visual artists since its inception.

“The Trawick Prize: Bethesda Contemporary Art Awards has been recognizing the wonderful, diverse talent of artists from Maryland, DC and Virginia for 10 years now,” Trawick said in a statement. “I am thrilled to celebrate this special anniversary and to once again have the opportunity to honor regional artists for enriching our community.”

A special group exhibition is planned to display the work of the 10 “Best in Show” winners, set for Nov. 3 through Dec. 1 at Gallery B. Award winners will be announced Friday, Nov. 2. The public opening reception is planned for Friday, Nov. 9 from 6-9 p.m. in conjunction with Bethesda Art Walk.

To view the winning work of the “Best in Show” artists and vote online for the “People’s Choice” winner, click over to Bethesda Magazine.