Visitors to the 2025 Stars of Texas Juried Art Exhibit have voted in a two-way tie for the prestigious People’s Choice Award. The winners, Evening in Riverside Park ‘The Big Tree by Linda Hall Eggleston and Live Life in Full Bloom by Jimmie Hudson, received equal acclaim for their remarkable artistry. Meanwhile, Lil’ Swimmers by Anthony Conner was selected by students to receive the 2025 Student’s Choice Award.

Linda Hall Eggleston, who began her artistic journey in 1972 under the mentorship of renowned Brownwood artist Gatha Browning, is known for her mastery in oils and pastels. A self-proclaimed colorist, Linda draws much of her inspiration from the beauty of nature, with Riverside Park being a frequent muse. “I’ve been painting in the park since the 1970s, when members of the Art Association would gather there to paint and enjoy one another’s company,” she shares. “The park holds many fond memories for me, and it’s a place that continues to inspire my work.”

Jimmie Hudson, a talented watercolor artist, expressed her excitement about being chosen for the People’s Choice Award: “Being selected as the People’s Choice is the most thrilling part of Stars for me. It’s always exciting to know that people enjoy my art—there’s no better compliment.” Hudson paints on canvas and describes the creation of her award-winning piece as a natural evolution: “I started with the idea of a window, then added a shape that became a table. From there, I thought a chair would complete the piece, and everything just seemed to fall into place.”

For Anthony Conner, Lil’ Swimmers holds deep personal meaning. Inspired by his daughter’s love for whales, Anthony created the whimsical piece as a tribute to her. An artist from a young age, Anthony was influenced by his mother, also an artist. Despite the challenges of creating in the heart of his bustling household—often with his three kids running around—his passion for art remains strong. “I’m so grateful that my piece resonated with the younger visitors,” he says. “It means the world to me that they connected with my work. And more than anything, I’m thrilled that my daughter is proud of what I created. That makes this award even more special.”

Emily Hutson, chairperson of this year’s exhibit planning committee, offered her congratulations to the winners: “We are delighted to honor Linda Hall Eggleston, Jimmie Hudson, and Anthony Conner as the 2025 People’s Choice and Student’s Choice Award recipients. Their works truly represent the diversity and creativity of Texas artists.”

The award-winning pieces, Evening in Riverside Park ‘The Big Tree’, Live Life in Full Bloom, and Lil’ Swimmers, are on display at the Stars of Texas Juried Art Exhibit at the Depot and Cultural Center in Brownwood through Saturday, February 22nd.

The 2025 Stars of Texas Juried Art Exhibit offers free admission and features 130 stunning pieces of artwork, including acrylic and oil paintings, drawings, photography, pastels, sculpture, fiber art, and 3-D works, all created by talented artists from across the state of Texas.