And the People's Choice Award Goes to... Arlene Popko!

At the close of the McMurray Art League’s annual spring show, Venetia resident Arlene L. Popko received the People’s Choice Award for her piece entitled “Beach Treasures.”

The award-winning piece was one of three Popko had entered into the exhibit. It was on display at the studio from May 6 to May 21, during which time it received the highest number of ballot votes from gallery patrons.

The watercolor work depicts two curious young children eyeing the contents of their yellow bucket at the water’s edge. It is an artistic rendition of a photograph supplied by one of Popko’s dear friends.

The majority of Popko’s pieces are landscapes and still-lifes. She only recently began portraying people in her work. Her receipt of the People’s Choice Award for a scenic portrait celebrates her triumph in this relatively new field.

Popko, who is a self-taught artist, has two other paintings currently showing in Pittsburgh galleries. Her piece entitled “Tea House at Vizcaya” will show through May 28 at Fein Art Gallery in the North Side. “Carson City Saloon” will be on exhibit at Gallery Sim in the South Side until June 5.

To learn more about Popko and her artwork, click !