I received a phone call yesterday that a painting I had done titled "Windswept" had won the Lexjet Sunset Award for Best Portrait at the Southeast Professional Photographers Association regional competition. I entered the portrait in the Electronic Imaging category as I have just begun working toward my Master Artist degree through PPA. I was excited and humbled by the award.
Here is the link to their blog:
http://blog.lexjet.com/2012/04/19/prints-that-win-bridging-the-realism-gap/
Classic portraiture doesn't have to be static or stodgy in feel. I am so glad it is still being rewarded.