Artist MARY SUSAN VAUGHN wins "First Place" In Patriotism Exhibition

Mary Susan Vaughn, a fine artist in Charlotte, North Carolina, entered her painting, "America's Promise" 36x54 Oil on Canvas, in the Capitol Arts Network "Patriotism" Exhibition and Competition being held at the Washington Gallery and School of Photography in Bethesda, Maryland. Her painting was one of only 20 fine art pieces and 15 artists to be selected to showcase their work in this exhibit. At the reception and opening of the exhibit on July 13, Vaughn's painting won first place recognition in the exhibit. "This award is very validating as an artist," said Vaughn.

The painting, America's Promise, depicts the men of the USS Theodore Roosevelt lowering the American flag on the deck of the Roosevelt, with the uniformed men standing on the deck in perspective. These young military men and women were preparing to set sail to the middle east one week after Sept. 11th out of Norfolk, Virginia. The original photograph used for reference for this painting was an Associated Press Photograph used with permission for this large painting.

"The minute I saw this photo in the paper, I had to paint it" said Vaughn about her reference. "I contacted the Associated Press in 2002 and received written permission to use it for this painting. I am very proud of this work and it has received lots of attention in the last 5 years."

Vaughn has been painting professionally for 10 years and has collectors around the world. "I am fortunate to have collectors of my art who come back time and time again for commissioned work and also to purchase pieces that I have available." She works primarily painting from her own reference material and painting in plein air, but enjoys commissioned work as well.

"America's Promise" is available for acquisition for $9,000.00. It will be on exhibit at the Washington Gallery at 4850 Rugby Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland until August 5th.

You can view the website and portfolio at www.vaughnfineart.com.