Rosalynn Arnold’s painting ‘Iris’ has won the People’s Choice Award at ‘Expressions 2026: America 250,’ after more than 100 visitors voted on the exhibition’s 146 works by 84 artists. Arnold’s watercolor also received first place in the exhibition’s watercolor category.
The People’s Choice result was determined by exhibition visitors rather than a formal judging panel. The award gave audience participation a direct role in recognizing work in the annual open-entry exhibition, which is presented by Lynwood Artists and Piedmont Arts.
Piedmont Arts announced the result in August 2026. The Martinsville, Virginia, institution is located at 215 Starling Avenue and maintains exhibition galleries alongside a Discovery Room, library and gift shop. Its published visitor information lists free admission and hours from Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
‘Expressions’ is one of the recurring exhibition projects associated with Piedmont Arts and Lynwood Artists. The latter is described by Piedmont Arts as an organization for practicing artists in the Martinsville-Henry County area. Its stated aims include encouraging understanding and enjoyment of fine art and the artistic process, while providing area artists with opportunities to exhibit and develop their talents.
The 2026 exhibition’s title, ‘America 250,’ identifies its connection to the 250th anniversary theme referenced by the organizers. The available announcement does not provide a description of Arnold’s painting ‘Iris,’ its dimensions, medium beyond its watercolor classification, or the work’s subject matter.
Piedmont Arts’ August announcement also included information about other upcoming programming, including exhibitions opening later in the month, a fundraiser and a talk on looted art. Those announcements are separate from the award recognition for ‘Iris.’
