The American Impressionist Society’s 26th Annual National Juried Exhibition opened on August 1 at Cassens Fine Art in Hamilton, Montana, in the majestic Bitterroot Valley. Over $100,000 in cash and merchandise awards were presented for a total of 45 awards.
The 2025 exhibition features 165 juried paintings, with an additional 16 paintings by American Impressionist Society (AIS) Masters and board members. It is on view through September 2.
The AIS 26th Annual National Exhibition Awards Judge was AIS Master Member Ned Mueller. Ned spent the week with AIS members leading a workshop, painting demo and painting sessions. His opening remarks at the Awards Ceremony stressed the importance of the intent of the artist when creating artwork and stressed the importance of choosing the paintings with true mastery of the style of Impressionism. Six AIS Signature Members juried the exhibition entries in a blind process.
“Cassens Fine Art is a remarkable gallery with a dedicated group of collectors,” said Liz Ahrens, AIS Executive Director. “Over 40 pieces were sold before we opened the exhibition, which is a record. AIS members painted together in the wilds of Montana, at the historic Daly Mansion with models in Victorian garb, on a private ranch and along the banks of the Bitterroot River.” Over 60 artists from across the US attended the opening week events including critiques, four receptions, and learning about the Business of Art from expert Scott Jones.
All of the images can be viewed online in the AIS National Catalog here.
The top one reminds me of Sergei Bongart! Beautiful! And the last one of the waterfall….awesome!