2026 Marks of Distinction National Exhibition
The Soft Pastel contest Marks of Distinction National Exhibition at Fivesparks in Harvard, MA, concluded recently. The selection process for the 7th Annual Marks of Distinction 2026 National Exhibition was highly competitive, and very well received. 75 artists applied from 17 states and provinces across the United States and Canada. 210 entries were submitted for consideration, and the selection jurors chose only 52 soft pastel paintings for the final gallery. Mamut Pastels had a large presence.
Mamut Pastels served as a major material prize donor for the 2026 Marks of Distinction Exhibition. The specific prizes awarded were custom, high-end Pastel sets. Some of the winners, among others, were Jane Robbins: She won the Pastel Painters Society of Cape Cod / Mamut Award for her vibrant still life "Peach Heaven", specifically receiving the set of light, cool greens.
Karen Horne: Received a Mamut merchandise award for her restaurant interior painting "Outside, Inside", bringing home the latched wooden box featuring the creamy neutral palette.
Cheryl Wildermuth: Honored with a joint Connecticut Pastel Society & Mamut Pastels Award for her accepted gallery contribution.
Gabriela (Luisa): Awarded the Anne McLeod Memorial Award & Mamut Award, for her standout painting titled "Grown"
1st Place/Mamut Award, Gary Ozias - "Nocturne in Blues"
2nd Place /Mamut Award, Terri Brooks - "Queen of the Raft"
Award for Color Palette /Mamut Award, Caroline Kelley - "Red, Yellow, Blue"
Best Texture or Mark Making /Mamut Award, Christine Bodnar - "That Winter"
Most Emotive /Mamut Award, Elissa McMeniman - "Marsh Swirl"
Most Emotive /Mamut Award, Elissa McMeniman - "Marsh Swirl"
Red Rock Pastel Society /Mamut Award, Warren Jacobson - "Light, Time and Scent"
Cheryl Wildermuth with her painting, CMPS photo
Connecticut Pastel Society /Mamut Award, Cheryl Wildermuth - "Gleam of Light"
Anne McLeod Memorial /Mamut Award, Luisa Gabriela Guzman - "Grown"
Philadelphia Pastel Society /Mamut Award, Karen Horne - Outside, Inside"
Pastel Painters Society of Cape Cod /Mamut Award, Jane Robbins - "Peach Heaven"
Pastel Society of New Hampshire /Mamut Award, Joe Yoffa - "Silo #12"
Pastel Society of Maine /Mamut Award, Kate Bergquist - "Dunes"
