Acrylic International Biennial Juried Exhibition 2022

John Jude Palencar is an American artist whose acrylic paintings are filled with visual allegories, symbols, and archetypes. He is best known for meticulous technique reminiscent of the old masters, and a soaring, darkly surreal imagination. His work has been exhibited throughout the U.S. and Europe, including the Canton Museum of Art, Butler Institute of American Art, and the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. his artist in residence at the Cill Rialaig Artist’s Retreat, County Kerry, Ireland, culminated in a solo exhibition, “Images of Ireland”, at the National Museum in Dublin. An inspiring instructor, John has also been a visiting artist and lecturer at several colleges and universities.

Palencar’s hybrid approach to art – being both an illustrator and fine artist – is a testament to the strength and acceptance of his work by a wide audience of fans, clients and collectors. His recent awards include top honors form the National Society of Painters in Casein & Acrylic, the American Watercolor Society, and Allied Artists of America. Recognition for nearly half a century of contributions to the field of illustration includes the Society of Illustrators prestigious Hamilton King Award, the Spectrum Grand Master Award, six Chesley Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association of Science Fiction and Fantasy Artists, and juried inclusion in numerous annual publications.

Palencar is internationally known for his cover art for renowned authors including H.P. Lovecraft, J.R.R. Tolkien, Ursula LeGuin, Marion Zimmer Bradley, P.D. James, Octavia Butler, George R.R. Martin, and Stephen King – to name a few – seen in over 30 countries. His clients include Time Magazine, Smithsonian Magazine, National Geographic Magazine, Nat. Geo. Television, Lucas Arts, Paramount Pictures, and Vivendi Universal. “Origins – The Art of John Jude Palencar”, published by Underwood Books, is a collection of John’s book covers and selected personal works.