Those driving around Berks and Schuylkill counties may see a familiar sight on some of the billboards. Hamburg artist Eric Armusik won the People’s Choice Award for this year’s Fast Lane Art competition.
Armusik’s “Man with Guitar” is featured on eight billboards throughout the two counties and is estimated to reach more than 250,000 people.
“Thanks to everyone who helped me,” wrote the artist on his Facebook page. “I could not have done this without you.”
Fast Lane Art is a juried contest and exhibition for student and professional artists. The top six submissions (three students and three professional artists) had their art work displayed on highways throughout Greater Reading. Submitted works were displayed on Fast Lane Art’s Facebook page and people voted on which photo they wanted to see by “liking” the photo for the People’s Choice award.
One of the reasons that Armusik entered the contest is because the subject of his oil on wood panel painting is someone who he believes truly represents Berks County. The man is someone who the artist has used more than once for his paintings whether it be as the subject or for help in what a certain object would look like for the time frame of the current painting Armusik is working on.
It is not uncommon to find familiar faces used as inspiration in his paintings. Often times he will find a local resident that fits the face that he is looking for while working on his next piece of art. Bigger pieces will include both local residents and professional models.
Another reason that Armusik decided to enter the contest was to be able to share his artwork with his neighbors and friends in the surrounding counties. His artwork is sent all over the world and he enjoys being able to share it with local residents when he has the chance, like this opportunity presented.
While those driving by can enjoy his painting, Armusik is currently working on a number of projects that are keeping him quite busy. And he would not have it any other way. More on some of those projects will be announced soon.
For more information on Eric Armusik, visit www.ericarmusik.com.
