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Commended: Medhanit (Nia Nyabinghi) for Nancy Wilson, Song Stylist
See a list of all the winners and commended artists here. This week, we welcome Medhanit a.k.a Nia Nyabinghi, who is a self-taught artist from Columbus, OH with a focus on oil painting and digital illustration art. She tells us that “My focus with art has always been to inspire others to use creativity as a…
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Commended: Gail Joyce for the painting Fury
Gail Joyce, a self-taught artist, explores various mediums and techniques. Since 2024, her work has been recognized in oil, acrylic, and mixed media. Ann Joyce, featured in the painting “Fury,” embodies resilience and strength, reflecting women’s struggles and emotional experiences. The work emphasizes harnessing emotions for positive change.
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Commended: Emily Morgan’s Autobiographical Collage
Emily Morgan, a collage artist from Columbus, Ohio, creates art blending the natural with the surreal. Her piece, “Ghosts #2,” combines elements from a fashion photograph and antique prints, reflecting her artistic process and connection to identity. Her work celebrates curiosity and intuition, resisting strict interpretations.
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Kellie Kirksey: Fourth Prize in the Women of Ohio 2025 Poetry Award with ‘I Wish’
The poem by Kelly Kirksey honors two remarkable Ohio figures: Toni Morrison and Aminah Robinson. Morrison, a Nobel-winning novelist, transformed literary storytelling, while Robinson’s impactful art reflects her deep roots in community and ancestral legacy. Both women continue to inspire through their creative expressions and cultural narratives, emphasizing the healing power of art.
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McKenzie Gilbert: Third Prize for the Women of Ohio 2025 Art Award with ‘Is the grass greener?’
McKenzie Gilbert created a striking artwork for the Women of Ohio project, addressing the unique pressures faced by women educators. Her piece honors the sacrifices teachers make while highlighting the stresses unseen by the public. Born in 1996, Gilbert holds a BA in Arts Education and has an upcoming exhibition in 2026. Find out more…
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Emily Patterson: Third Prize in the Women of Ohio 2025 Poetry Award with ‘Land : Water : Memory’
Maya Lin, an Ohio-born artist and architect, is known for her impactful work that intertwines art, architecture, and environmental activism. Recognized for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, she creates engaging earthworks like A Fold in the Field. Emily Patterson’s poem ‘Land : Water : Memory’ celebrates Lin’s legacy and connection to Ohio’s indigenous landscapes.
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A Note of Thanks to Columbus Greater Arts Council
The funding period from Columbus Greater Arts Council is concluding, enabling the project. A letter of gratitude is extended to Mayor Andrew Ginther, the Columbus City Council, and the Franklin County Commissioners, acknowledging their support.
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Rob W. Jones: Second Prize for the Women of Ohio 2025 Art Award with ‘Thee Flower Lady of Mt. Vernon Avenue (study of Edna Bryce)’
We present here Rob W. Jones’s portrait of Edna L. Bryce, a notable community figure in Columbus. Rob celebrates her legacy as a businesswoman and activist. Originally from Fairhope, Alabama, Bryce founded Bryce Florist and advocated for her community, earning the nickname “The Flower Lady.” The painting reflects her nurturing spirit and impactful contributions.
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Darren C. Demaree: Second Prize for the Women of Ohio 2025 Poetry Award with ‘A Poem for the Aunts and Grandmothers on Livingstone Avenue’
Darren Demaree’s poem honors the matriarchal women of Ohio’s Livingston Avenue, who strongly support their community. Through his experiences at the Columbus Metropolitan Library, he learned about genuine care and community connection. Demaree argues that these women’s influence should be recognized and celebrated, emphasizing that real change stems from love and attention.
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Marcus Jackson: First Prize for the Women of Ohio 2025 Art Award for Art with “Livestream”
We present her the winning photograph “Live Stream” which captures the spirit of a 2020 Women’s Day demonstration in Columbus, Ohio, showcasing unity among feminine-presenting individuals. Its composition, highlighting diverse reactions and a bold front figure symbolizes women’s collective strength and purpose. Photographer and poet Marcus Jackson emphasizes the image’s dramatic, mythic quality while honoring…
Women of Ohio
Celebrating the Achievements of Women from the City of Columbus and the State of Ohio
