Hand Art Center’s 35th Annual Juried Show Is Up Until Dec. 7


The Hand Art Center at Stetson University is proud to announce the opening of the 35th Annual Juried Show, expertly juried by Stetson alumnus Trent Tomengo.
Annual Juried Show
As you walk in, you are greeted by an array of captivating artwork that showcases various forms — including photography, colored pencil on paper, digital media, oil on canvas, impasto medium, watercolor, and mixed media. This beautifully crafted art reflects the diverse thought processes of the artists, drawing inspiration from their life journeys and experiences, including travels that have shaped their creative expressions.
The Annual Juried Show is an exhibit that displays the art of Stetson undergraduate and graduate students from all majors and the arts of students from DeLand High School studying under Bryon Carson. The show not only celebrates artistic talent across disciplines but also offers cash prizes to recognize outstanding contributions, fostering a sense of community and encouraging creativity among young artists.
About Trent Tomengo

Trent Tomengo is a Stetson alumnus whose work “preaches tolerance, acceptance and mutual understanding,” and is part of the Hand Art Center’s permanent collection from his time as a juried show participant.
Tomengo earned a B.A. in Fine Arts from Stetson, where he laid the foundation for his artistic career. He currently serves as a professor of Humanities at Seminole State College of Florida, where he shares his expertise with students and encourages them to explore the intersections of art and humanity.
In addition to his teaching role, Tomengo is actively involved in the Central Florida art community, serving as Board President for Art & History Museums of Maitland and contributing to the Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the Arts and Humanities as a member of its National Planners and Academics Committee.
Tomengo’s impactful work continues to resonate in both academic and artistic circles, demonstrating the lasting influence of his time at Stetson.
Award Winners

Best in Show Award
• Marina Burgner
Ann West Hall Purchase Award
• Marina Burgner, for Homeless
Friends of the Hand Art Center Award
• Maddysun Castaneda
• Natalie Thomas
• Danielle Hunt
Friends of the Hand Art Center DeLand High School Award
• Amanda Brown
Friends of the Hand Art Center Honorable Mention Award
• Milo Silva
• Natalie Thomas
Student Choice Award
• Ella Swartz
• Natalie Thomas
How to visit
The 35th annual Juried Show will be on display until Dec 7 at the Hand Art Center, located at 139 E. Michigan Ave., Deland, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. The Hand Art Center is open by appointment on Mondays and is closed during all Federal and University holidays.
– Tiwanioluwa Adebayo