The American Artists Professional League’s 96th annual Grand National Exhibition will bring together over 80 superb artists for a showcase of representational still life, landscapes and figurative art. Running from October 28 to November 15, artwork in the exhibition encompasses a wide range of mediums, including oil, acrylic, watercolor, drawing and sculpture, displayed in the Skylight Gallery of the historic Salmagundi Club.

Iconic Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla was the inspiration for Andres Cabanos’ oil Marcos, which will be part of the upcoming show. “Sorolla’s paintings are known for his magnificent depictions of bathed sunlight. However, his paintings of family and friends have always drawn my attention in an awe-inspiring way,” says Cabanos. “They are nostalgic and intimate, and his color harmony enhances the sitter’s beauty and spirit. I hope my painting of Mark, a close friend who is always determined and passionate about art, evokes the same feeling.”

Clarissa Payne Uvegi says the inspiration for her vertical figurative work Ruby, Standing was her friend Ruby “Magic” Hawkins, who happens to spend part of her time as an artist’s muse. “She is extraordinary and magical, hence the nickname,” says Uvegi. “We always tend to talk about life when we work together. She inspires me to paint beyond the surface of what I see… endeavoring to reach deep within to her essence. It’s been my honor to paint Ruby.”

Jess Bell is an oil painter from Middletown, New Jersey. She takes her reference photos from local beaches and bodies of water all hours of the day, capturing the fleeting moments where the ocean displays interesting reflections. Bell enjoys painting coastal beach scenes and finds the ocean and water a never-ending source of inspiration. Her ocean scene Buoy can be seen during this year’s Grand National Exhibition.