Daemen Visual Arts student, Moira Blood, received top honors at the 2025 Erie County Fair, earning numerous prestigious awards for her outstanding artistic contributions. 
“I was honored to see my pieces judged so favorably at The Erie County Fair,” said Blood. “In my Art Education courses, I’ve learned how important helping my future students to get engaged in art events much like this one is, but experiencing the effects firsthand provides meaningful clarity to the benefit of expressing artistic growth and talent within the community. The joy of sharing art with someone, no matter the scale, and having it displayed with other people’s creations provides a rich connection to tradition and one another.”
Blood’s acrylic painting, Early Amber by Candlelight, earned the Tri-Color Award (Best in Show), along with a Blue Ribbon (First Place) and a Gray Ribbon (Best in Class). This exceptional piece was completed under the mentorship of Adjunct Professor Cristiano Pereira (Painting).
Her figure drawing, Skin Deep, guided by Professor Mike Parker, also garnered top recognition with a Blue Ribbon (First Place) and Gray Ribbon (Best in Class).
In addition, Blood’s ceramic work, The Three Fates, a series of three raku pots completed under the guidance of Adjunct Professor Jim Olson (Ceramics), received a White Ribbon (Honorable Mention).
“This powerful relationship within the arts is an achievement in itself,” added Blood. My art professors’ support, as I completed these pieces in their classes, makes these works all the more special to me. I have developed as an artist with their guidance and I am so grateful. As I start my career in Art Education, I am fortunate that my thorough education has not only translated in my artworks, but has prepared me to teach and share my knowledge with my students. Having participated, I am thankful, proud, and inspired!”
“These distinctions underscore the caliber of Daemen’s Visual Arts programs and the commitment of faculty to fostering both technical skill and artistic exploration,” said Heather Putney, assistant professor of practice for Visual Arts Education. “The university extends its congratulations to Moira on these significant achievements and looks forward to witnessing her continued artistic growth.”