See a list of all the winners and commended artists here.
This week, we extend our welcome to Gail Joyce (63), a self-taught artist who enjoys exploring multiple mediums and creating new techniques. Since entering her first show in 2024, she has been recognized for her work in oil, acrylic and mixed media. She also asked if she could thank her husband Brian for giving her the space and encouragement to break out of her artist cocoon.
Below, Ann tells us about the woman in her painting, Fury, and she offers a bit of background on its creation.
THE SUBJECT: Ann Joyce (Kettering OH)
You know her. Think of your loving daughter, brilliant sister, devoted wife, protective mother or your loyal BFF. The woman you’re thinking about right now and smiling. You see her at the grocery store, your kids ball games or grabbing a coffee. Think of the person that can make you laugh until you cry and always, ALWAYS has your back.
That’s Ann.
You will never know all the personal stories (not mine to tell), that make her so very extraordinary, but know this, Ann Joyce is 5’2” of audacious tenacity. She shows you kindness, caring, love and compassion. You don’t see the depth of her capacity for resilience and inner strength, her ability to find balance in chaos.
She is the Calm and the Storm
“And though she be but little, she is fierce!” (Shakespeare).
ABOUT THE PAINTING: “FURY”
In Greek mythology, the Furies were three goddesses of vengeance and retribution. This image of my daughter brought to mind the Fury “Alecto” representing endless anger. Rights of women are being erased from the canvas of everyday life and the frustration that brings is maddening. Emotions, raw and unfettered are displayed in “Fury”. Pain, grief, sadness, disgust and the rage, Oh the RAGE. But this emotional overload doesn’t make us weak, it empowers us. We can harness this energy to create positive change.
To contact Gail or request a commissions, email gjoyce.art@gmail.com
Women of Ohio 
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