First and foremost, before we go any further and announce any of the winners, we would like to say how proud we are, by the efforts given by the artists as well as the judges in this contest. As some have stated, this contest was unique to dA (but don't think this will be the last time we challenge you). We are so pleased at the outcome and the overwhelming response we have had, not only from the members but the outside community as well. Our plans to make A-M a sharing catalyst in the dA community is just beginning and we hope that everyone is just as anxious to be a part of it as we are. Together the possibilities are endless, bringing the artistic community together will just be a beginning. We have already discovered many resources and/or other clubs that want to be a part of this movement.
We want to take a minute to thank our judges, this was not only a challenge for the artists but for the judges as well. They had to look at each piece very differently than they normally would and they all did an amazing job. So a huge thank you to =HippieVan57 `angelles =jacksl *MichelleLynn725 =MaureenOlder and $chix0r.

It is time for us to announce the winners as well as share a few of the comments made by our gracious and prestigious judges...

First Place

Frustration-Aggression by =Divulged

`angelles " As a Traditional Artist, the description here is amazing, from technicality, to the essence of the artists' surroundings while painting. Both I believe are important. Many details about HOW the painting was put together. A true winner IMHO."

=jacksl " The artist describes the creative process so thoroughly here...that I can almost picture it....down to the time of day and protective gear worn. ...she manages to convey the whole atmosphere of making this piece. The technical aspects are well covered and easy to follow. A well thought out description."

*MichelleLynn725 " THIS artist really brought us in close with every blow by blow step but every thing was worded in such a way that it was very comprehensive and comfortable. GREAT product and terrific writing job."

=HippieVan57 "great technique explanation and i believe i could learn alot more about traditional art by the explanation"

Second Place

A Girl Named Embroise--v2 by *sybaritism

`angelles " Beautifully described. Technicality and step by step description just cannot be beat."

=jacksl " WOW!!! is all I can say. The volume and clarity of description here is quite breathtaking. The whole thought process has been painstakingly noted....it truly is an amazing piece of research.
Not being a poet, I'm not sure I could follow this process myself, however, I'm sure many could!"

*MichelleLynn725 " THIS artist can not be outdone when it comes to following the guidelines of submission and tediously including absolutely everything we'd ever want to know as excited readers - best of all, the story was superb!!"

=HippieVan57 " i was amazed at the amount of research that was done in this creation and the technical information was so very helpful, i can now look at literature in a better light."

Third Place

Salvation by ~bubblesstuckinglass

`angelles "Incredible detail on the steps taken and programs used to create this manipulation. I don't think I've ever seen a description so thorough on any PhoMan in all of my time on DA. I LEARNED things from this description."

=jacksl "The simplicity of these instructions is what drew me to this piece at first.
They are clear and concise...with thoughts and reasons behind each step...with informaqtion on the programs used. A great piece of work."

*MichelleLynn725"THIS artist charmed us with a very well thought out process, and an organized block of clarity pertaining to this enchanting piece. Another artist who can bring us in and make us feel comfortable with a very haunting subject at the base of the creativity."

"=HippieVan57 said: great information in the comments here, i actually felt like i was looking over the artists shoulders as this was created."

Honorable Mention

Giddy by *Xadrea

`angelles " This artist very INNOCENTLY describes the steps taken to produce the photograph. Not afraid to say she was AFRAID and felt like she had a lot to learn as a photographer. Still she holds true to what works best for her NOW, and takes us thru the encounter step by step."

=jacksl "Honesty was what came to mind when I saw this photo. A lovely description of her sister...and the process of taking the pic.....a great scene setter.
Not being afraid of confessing to lack of knowledge was very endering also."

=HippieVan57 " i like the way this artist gave the specs on the camera setting, i feel if it had a bit more tech stuff written it would have done better in the contest."

Thanks to all of those that entered, you are being featured in this news article as well. This contest was an exercise in teaching. It was a chance to see that we can all do both, teach and learn. The idea was to create something and then walk someone else through the process it took to get you there. We had some outstanding entries and we hope that everyone that took part enjoyed it as much as we did. You all did an amazing job and we are honored that so many took part. Please keep your eyes open as there will be more challenges to come.