Best in Show Pets Art Competition: Meet the Jurors

Artists Network recognizes that special canine connection — as well as feline, equine, and avian bonds, among others—in its annual Best of Show Pets Art Competition.

Johanne Mangi — Juror for Top Dog

Representational oils painted from life burst with the spirit of the subject, even as they are a record of Johanne Mangi’s spirited journey. Based in Connecticut, Mangi is increasingly recognized throughout the U.S. and internationally for her animal and floral fine art, as well as her abilities as an educator. Her work can be seen at Salmagundi Club, in New York City, and West Wind Fine Art.

Kathryn Hansen — Juror for Top Cat

Kathryn Hansen’s drawings are focused around her passion and devotion to animals and nature. In addition to her art training at the University of Stevens Point, in Wisconsin, where she earned a BFA in studio arts, she went on to study illustration at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, and fine art at the Associates of Arts, in Sherman Oaks, Calif., while also studying painting under Margo Lennartz. She’s a Signature Member of the Society of Animal Artists. Her approach to capturing the character and essence of animals has garnered extensive coverage in magazine articles and books, and her drawings have been featured in national ad campaigns for Dick Blick.

Rita Kirkman — Juror for Top “Other Pet”

Rita Kirkman is a Master Pastelist with the Pastel Society of America and an Eminent Pastelist with the International Association of Pastel Societies. She’s also a popular workshop instructor. Her portraits and paintings are in public and private collections throughout the world, including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe, Japan, Africa, and Australia.