The Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie Mansion in Trenton, New Jersey, announced the award winners for the 43rd Ellarslie Open during its Artists and Members Reception on June 6, 2026. Nine artists from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and California received prizes, with Theresa Pfarr of Ewing, NJ, winning Best in Show for her large-scale painting "Onslaught." Other winners included Zoe Hansen (Digital Art), Helene Condouris (Painting), Charles Plohn (Photography), Jesse Brink (Sculpture), William Hogan (Works on Paper), John Styner (Risk Taker's Award), Robert Kellett (President's Award), and Marina Ahun (Installation Award). The juror was Adam Welch, Executive Director of the Arts Council of Princeton, who selected 127 pieces from 634 entries. The exhibition runs through September 6, 2026, and also features a portfolio show of over 100 additional works.
This annual juried exhibition matters because it highlights the vitality and diversity of contemporary creative practices in the greater Trenton and Bucks County region, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists. The Ellarslie Open fosters community engagement through events like the Juror's Talk and Artists' Gallery Walk, and it supports local artists by offering purchase opportunities for exhibited works. The show underscores the role of regional museums in nurturing local art scenes and connecting artists with audiences.