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Tender touches take the day

Vernon St. Art Battle featured 12 artists last week.
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Clayton Stint was named the winner of last Thursday evening’s Art Battle.

They had 20 minutes to come up with something awesome.

Twelve painters stood at their easels, staring at a blank canvas, while Nelson residents packed into a new Vernon St. art space called The Bridge. Co-hosted by artists Joe Nillo and Naama David, the Art Battle competition was the first of a planned trio of events.

“To see the level of art that was created here under such intense pressure and time restraints was unbelievable,” Nillo told the Star.

Bryn Aspekterson, Stephanie Robicheau, Blake Dejong and Clayton Stitt were the finalists, with Stitt ultimately walking away with the win.

“It was an absolute honour to paint alongside some of Nelson’s finest artists this last Thursday. Not only was it an honour, it was extremely nerve-wracking. Twenty minutes is not a lot of time to bust out a piece,” said Stitt.

His avian-themed composition included tender brushstrokes, with a distinctly Japanese feel. At the end of the night it was snatched up by a buyer.

“It also felt amazing to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone. I really look forward to representing Nelson in the next battle,” he said.

And the organizers can’t wait to do it again.

“To see The Bridge full of people once again connecting and inspiring each other was amazing. I’m so happy to see the community here putting their interest and passion into the arts and fostering the community’s growth in the city,” Nillo said.

“Endless gratitude for all who came out and made the event what it was.”

The next Art Battle will be held sometime in the spring.