McQuade Fine Arts Scores a “Hat Trick” at the Lakes Region Art Gallery’s 85th Annual Members Exhibit
On Friday evening, August 8, 2025, the Lakes Region Art Gallery marked its 85th anniversary in grand style with the Association’s 85th Annual Members Exhibit. The celebratory Award Ceremony, presented by Association President Sherwood Frazier, drew a large and enthusiastic crowd.
Petals & Possibility
Stephanie McQuade earned two top honors for her captivating works. Her third-place ribbon went to Petals & Possibility, a luminous watercolor capturing the first breath of spring. Vibrant purple crocuses burst through rich soil tones, their delicately layered petals and intricate details symbolizing renewal, beauty, and nature’s quiet strength.
Walk in the Winter Woods
Her second-place ribbon was awarded for the 24x18 pastel Walk in the Winter Woods. This serene scene invites viewers down a tranquil forest path glowing in the warm light of an early winter day. Shafts of sunlight filter through golden leaves, casting a magical glow along the quiet trail—an irresistible call to pause, wander, and bask in nature’s gentle beauty.
Bloom’n Time
Completing the McQuade “hat trick,” Mike McQuade captured first place in the Color Photography division with his 24x12 print Bloom’n Time. Elegantly framed, this piece reflects the delicate imprint of time—edges curl, leaves fade, yet the blossoms remain radiant. It captures that poignant moment when life is still vivid even as change whispers at the edges, a reminder that beauty doesn’t vanish with age—it deepens, transforms, and continues to speak.
All three award-winning works are available for purchase and will remain on display through the end of August at the Lakes Region Art Gallery, located in the Tilton, NH Tanger Outlets (120 Laconia Rd, Tilton, NH). To inquire about acquiring these fine art pieces, visit the gallery or contact Mike or Stephanie directly via email.
A huge Thank You to the Lakes Region Art Association for bringing the competition to the public and for all the time and effort the committee personnel contributed.