2025 Judges

Tim Jaeger
Tim Jaeger is a Sarasota-based painter celebrated for his expressive style that captures the spirit and vibrancy of the Gulf Coast. In addition to his studio practice, Jaeger is also the Director and Chief Curator for the Galleries of Ringling College and is also committed to arts education and community engagement, helping foster creativity throughout the region.


Cassia Kite
Cassia Kite is a multidisciplinary artist and educator known for her “Soundstitching” series, which translates sound and memory into textile-based visual art. Based in Sarasota, she blends music, storytelling, and craftsmanship to create deeply personal works.


Rob Tarbell
Rob Tarbell is a Sarasota artist, and Ringling College Faculty member recognized for his innovative smoke drawings and conceptual installations. His practice explores the balance between control and spontaneity, transforming ephemeral materials into lasting impressions.


Keith Crowley
In addition to being the longtime Senior Preparater of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Keith Crowley, is a Sarasota painter and mixed-media artist whose work combines abstract expression with the textures and colors of coastal life. His pieces evoke a sense of emotion and movement inspired by the natural environment.


Jon Dowd
Jon Dowd is Sarasota’s premier art mover and installer, specializing in the careful handling and precise placement of high-end artworks. In addition to his professional expertise in art logistics, Jon brings a curator’s eye and an artist’s sensitivity to every project. His work spans private collections, museums, and galleries throughout the region, where his attention to detail and deep respect for each piece ensure flawless presentation.


Steven Strenk
Steven Strenk is a Sarasota sculptor, longtime Ringling College Faculty member, instructor of the Emma Booker HS VPA program, and installation artist exploring the interaction between natural forms and built environments. His works often use reclaimed materials, reflecting his focus on sustainability and thoughtful design.


Vicky Randall
Vicky Randall is a Sarasota-based sculptor, educator, and longtime Ringling College Faculty member whose abstract works explore the relationship between light, color, and space. Her intuitive, layered approach creates a sense of harmony and depth that invites reflection.