Harlin Museum Announces Top Winners of Semiquincentennial Art Show
The Harlin Museum wrapped up its highly anticipated annual art show dedicated this year to the nation’s 250th anniversary with a dynamic awards ceremony on April 25. The event drew artists, local patrons, and community members eager to celebrate American creativity and patriotism in a night full of artistic recognition and spirited pride.
Travis Smith, candidate for Missouris 154th District of the House of Representatives, officiated the ceremony and personally presented awards, lending political weight and community focus to the occasion. This year’s show, themed around the United States semiquincentennial, showcased a broad spectrum of artistic interpretations capturing historical and contemporary American symbols and narratives.
Nancy L. Fennell Dominates Multiple Categories
The evening’s biggest spotlight shone on Nancy L. Fennell, who captured the coveted Best of Show award for her powerful piece, “Patriotic Horse.” Fennell did not stop there, also securing first place in the American Symbols & Icons category with her striking artwork “Patriotic Eagle.”
In the same category, Tali Brinkerhoff earned second place for “American Bighorn,” while Cathie McClellan took third with her unique piece titled “New Coin at the Realm/Caught in a New of Not of My Device.” This range reflects the creative diversity and depth of talent on display.
Portraits and People’s Choice Spotlight Fennell Again
Fennell also won first place in the Portraits category with her evocative “John Hancock Signing the Declaration of Independence,” a nod to one of the nation’s founding moments. This same piece resonated most with attendees, earning the coveted People’s Choice award — a testament to the emotional connection her work created during the exhibition.
The Portraits category second place went to Robb Cox for “Raising Old Glory,” while third was awarded to Lonnie Meuser for the contemporary-themed “Selfie 2.0.”
Landscape Excellence Sees Lee Copen Take Top Honors
In Landscapes, Lee Copen dominated again, clinching both first place with “Long Way Home” and second place for “Cotton Fields.” McClellan earned third place for “Purple Mountains Majesties,” rounding out a competitive field.
Honorable mentions went to several talented artists: Jim McBride for “Resting,” Fennell for “McDonald Lake, MT,” Meuser with “Beehaven,” and Copen for two works, “Crossing to Pine Point” and “Evening at Alley.”
Community Spirit and Artistic Achievement Celebrated
This year’s reception included refreshments courtesy of the Harlin Museum Board of Directors and served as a joyful conclusion to a powerful exhibition that both honors the past 250 years of American history and highlights the vitality of today’s artists.
The event’s success underscores the museum’s role as a hub of cultural engagement, bringing together diverse voices and creative visions that reflect the nation’s heritage and future. Organizers promise this will remain a cherished annual platform for artists and community members alike.
What’s Next for the Harlin Museum?
Following this landmark celebration, the Harlin Museum plans to continue spotlighting artists who illuminate important national themes, fostering dialogue and community pride. Art lovers in Ohio and beyond should expect more compelling exhibitions that connect history to contemporary experience.
The semiquincentennial art show has set a high bar for creativity and public engagement—making clear that America’s 250th anniversary is as much a moment for celebration as it is for reflection, through the powerful lens of art.
