As 2024 comes to a close, we hope that our participants and our readers look back on this year with pride. No matter where you started, where you are now and where you will be in the future-always remember that you've made it this far. You are strong, you are resilient, and the future is no match for your greatness. 

We caught a glimpse of our art participants' greatness through Sentimental Solstice, the last art competition of 2024. Entries provided a shared emotional rollercoaster experience of various themes: love, pain, resilience, compassion, exploration, triumph, and more.

As we evaluated each entry, it was apparent that we were experiencing the hearts of each artist poured into their artwork and explained within their comments. To say the least, tears were shed. Many times.

We heavily focused on how all 7 entries fit theme prompt and requirements, especially in relation to one another. We were, without doubt, attracted to entries that "screamed" winter since Sentimental Solstice called for winter horses. However, we were also drawn to observations made that are still unclear as to whether it was intended by artist or completely coincidental. Whether purposeful or not, those same observations made the entries even more remarkable and unique. 

While we eventually reached a placement conclusion, we did not want to minimize the fact that two other entries were within a point or two from third place. Yet again, we had a near overlap of scores. We appreciate the hard work and thoughtfulness from our artists.