The 2026 Willow Invitational Exhibit
Each summer, Willow gathers a vibrant community of artists, collectors, and viewers who share a love for realism and a belief that it has new ground to explore. This year marks Willow’s fourth show of contemporary realist works from nature and life.
The 2026 show represents a change in our format. While past years included up to 40 artists, this year just 15 artists will show 5-10 works each. The show is presented in a comfortable, warm and inviting Vermont home. The approach is informal, inviting and intimate, where artists and patrons can come together over eight days to celebrate our shared love for artworks from nature and life.
This more intimate approach will allow you to see deeper into the lives and careers of contemporary working artists. We have selected the small number of artists based on the quality, depth and range of their work. Artworks will be presented along with biographical stories about their work and careers.
The works in this year’s show were created through direct observation of nature, material and essence. But they transcend mere reporting—they transmit something larger than the subject and more expansive than even the artist’s vision. The artworks hum with life and you’re invited to tune in to that life yourself, personally.
Bethann Moran-Handzlik
Local and National Press
Scott Garder, Crouching Aphrodite
Jordan Hein
A show for everyone
Are you drawn to specific subjects, colors, composition, technique, or to the emotive force of an artwork? At our show, every kind of love is treasured. You might love a brushstroke that pulls a canvas together or a line that moves a sculpture from one mood to another. You may respond to a theme, a gesture, or the contrast of light and dark. You might be drawn to the harmony of a composition or the emotional force in a facial expression. These layers are what make great works of art so rich and enduring.
We invite you to come to this show ready to yield to your senses. Turn inward to explore what matters to you about the artworks you encounter. When you see the artworks and meet their creators, we encourage you to let your reactions flow freely. If you like an artwork because it tells a story, great! If you love it for the composition, wax on! If you love color, Vermont landscapes, or the human figure, this is the show for you!
Great art has it’s own unfolding life and it isn’t complete until it’s seen. Collectors and viewers are part of the creative ecosystem—without you, artwork disappears and the mundane world reigns
Meet the artists
This exhibit brings 15 artists and over 100 works together. Their portraits, figures, landscapes, and florals — created from nature and life — demonstrate technical skill, artistic vision, and deep understanding of form, nature, and the sensuous world around us.
Contemporary Classical Realism is an artistic movement that combines the techniques and principles of classical art with a contemporary approach. It emphasizes skillful draftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and a focus on capturing the beauty and essence of the natural world.
In some ways, this movement is not entirely new. Instead, it is a radical renewal of values worth cultivating. It invites us to appreciate the timeless techniques of the past while embracing the contemporary world we live in. It celebrates the skill, dedication, and vision of talented artists who push the boundaries of traditional art, creating works that are technically impressive and emotionally resonant.
A digital catalogue is now available. The catalogue features hi-resolution photographs and information on all artworks. You may look through the catalogue in anticipation of seeing the works in person, but you may also purchase directly from the catalogue before the show opens.
You patronage supports artists directly
Thank you for considering the purchase of these exceptional artworks and for supporting the artists in their teaching and study. Your support plays a vital role in sustaining the artistic community and ensuring the continuation of classical art education. By investing in these artists, you become a part of their journey and help foster a thriving artistic ecosystem of teacher, student, and patron.
Willow is unusual in charging a very small commission to support advertising and printing only. Ravi and Tom donate their home and many hours of work to curate the show. No one but the artist gets paid from the sale of their works.
We invite you to explore the artworks on display, knowing that your purchase will have a meaningful impact on the artists' ongoing and work. Your support will contribute directly to the renewal of a timeless tradition and help to shape a new and contemporary vision for the art world.
© 2025 Willow Invitational Exhibit of Contemporary Realism. All rights reserved.