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I was recently invited to judge the Baltimore Watercolor Society’s Signature Members exhibit.  I enjoyed spending the time to look, feel, and evaluate the artwork.  Judging an art exhibition is a nuanced process that involves evaluating various aspects of the artworks on display. It's not merely about the aesthetic appeal but encompasses a range of criteria to ensure a fair and comprehensive assessment of each piece.  With that in mind, I looked at here are the six different criteria: technical merit, originality, composition, presentation, color value, and its ability to elicit an emotion.

Technical merit is a fundamental criterion. This involves examining how well the artist has mastered the medium of watercolors, which is known for its fluidity and unpredictability. I looked for evidence of skill in brushwork, color blending, and the ability to control water to achieve desired effects. 

Originality is another factor. In a world inundated with visual stimuli, presenting an original idea through art can be challenging yet highly valued. This criterion assesses how the artist brings a unique perspective or a new approach to the subject matter. It's about the innovation in thought and execution that makes the artwork stand out.

Composition obviously refers to how elements are arranged within the artwork. Good composition guides the viewer's eye across the painting, creating a sense of balance and harmony. I evaluated the use of space, the interplay of shapes and lines, and how these elements work together to support the overall theme or message of the piece.

Presentation is all about the framing, matting, and overall cleanliness of the work. A well-presented piece shows respect for the viewer and can enhance the perceived value of the artwork. It's about ensuring that nothing detracts from the viewer's experience of the art.

Color value defines how light or dark a given color or hue can be. Black is at one extreme and white is at the other.  A great work of art has a variety of values that play off each other, creating volume and depth. 

Lastly, the ability to illicit an emotional response is perhaps the most subjective yet profound criterion. Art, at its core, is about communication and connection. I considered how effectively a piece evokes my own feelings or thoughts. It's about the power of the artwork to move people, which often distinguishes the remarkable from the mundane.

In summary, judging this watercolor art exhibition involved a holistic approach, which was my goal while evaluating this exhibition and any in the future.