Congratulations to Stephen O’Donnell!  The Power of Self jury panel has selected O’Donnell for the Grand Prize: a gala reception in NYC, a video documentary on the artist & his work, not to mention an Entire Year of Stephen O’Donnell’s Life will be PAID by Artists Wanted!

Ferociously funny and deftly skilled, Stephen O’Donnell paints in the French “portrait historié” tradition.  This Portland-based painter takes self-reflection to a new level, searching for truth by channeling absurdity, in all of its beatific glory.  In many of these works, O’Donnell playfully reverses gender; the artist portrays himself in ornate feminine finery, replete with overblown hairstyles and the all the accoutrements of exotic feathers and ribbons. Using only acrylic paints, O’Donnell creates remarkable depth and nuance in his work, embracing an old tradition while imbuing it with a fresh verve.  You can see more of Stephen O’Donnell’s work here >>

Also, Check out our Early Entry Award Winner, Evangelia Marithaki, as well as our Top 100, here>>

P.S. Inspired by our Power of Self Grand Prize winner? London Calling! Submit your best work to Art Takes London and you will be eligible for $10,000 in awards and a feature booth in Scope Art Show’s London edition! Get Started >>