Awards | 2025 Why Not Niwot?
- osmosisgallery
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
We are excited to share the award winners from another wonderful year of the Why Not Niwot? Exhibition! Now in its 14th year, the show once again highlighted the creativity and spirit of our community. This summer, 33 artworks inspired by Niwot were displayed throughout town during July and August.
The celebration culminated at Niwot's First Friday Art Walk, where we gathered to honor the artists and announce this year's awards. The evening opened with the Niwot Community Semi-Marching Free Grange Band playing on the patio of the historic Bader House, while plein air artists painted the scene live before the winners were revealed.
Award Winners
Grand Prize
Jeff Server, 2nd Ave Rain
Jeff Server's painting was selected as the Grand Prize winner. Judge Lisa Rivard described it as “a moody and somber summer evening on Second Avenue. Using rich contrast, deep color and intense black with honey gold, he creates a soothing respite.”
2nd Place
Jason Emery, Summer Hay
Jason Emery received Second Place for his piece Summer Hay. Judge Mary Horrocks shared: “A strong piece with beautiful light. You can feel the weather moving in. The landscape is familiar and unmistakably Niwot, told through a simple and confident composition.”
3rd Place & People's Choice
Valerie St. Marie, Vintage Niwot
Valerie St. Marie's Vintage Niwot was honored with both Third Place and the People's Choice Award. Judge Alyson Bell remarked: “Quintessential Vintage Niwot in a nutshell. This masterful artist squeezed out every tiny bit and more to replicate the welcome sign into our community. It almost looks as though it is in 3D, with perfectly executed strokes making this permanent object come to life on paper.”
Sesquicentennial Award
Jason Taittinger, Vera and Allen Bolton with Pony (Abstract)
Judge Alyson Bell reflected on this piece: “This image, while haunting, captures a lot of emotion. It makes me really feel and that is why this image grabbed ahold of me and wouldn't let go. The colors, while subtle, are also vibrant enough to catch your attention, make you want to look closer, and learn more about our rich history of Niwot.”
Dreaming of Niwot Award
Jason Taittinger, Niwot Pizza
Judge Lisa Rivard called this work “a magical depiction of Lefty's Pizza. Reminiscent of merry-go-round days and children's dreams of fairies and elves in a forest with rosy clouds and twinkling lights. Now a memory.”
In addition to the awards, visitors enjoyed live painting, music, and the chance to see all entries gathered together at Niwot Hall. Over 350 passports were distributed to visitors throughout the summer, inviting them to explore 12 local businesses that hosted artwork.
As always, prints, cards, and wine featuring the Grand Prize-winning piece are available at Osmosis Gallery, with proceeds benefiting the Niwot Cultural Arts Association.
The Why Not Niwot? Exhibition continues to highlight the creative spirit and sense of community that make Niwot such a unique place. Thank you to all of the artists, businesses, and visitors who helped make 2025 another successful year for art in Niwot!
Get the application for the 2026 Why Not Niwot? here and join us next year!