Smith Moore Leatherwood LLP announced that John Derek Parsons was selected as the winner of the third annual Furman University Juried Art Competition. The competition, which began Dec. 15, 2017, concluded Jan. 11, 2018.

Parsons, a Furman senior, was selected as the winner of the competition for his series of woodblock prints: “On the Trail” and “Summertime on the Trail.” The winning pieces were purchased by the firm and will become part of Smith Moore Leatherwood's permanent art collection. Additionally, Jackson Goode, a Furman senior, was awarded honorable mention for his collection of acrylic paintings, “Olivia: 0,” “Jeff: 17” and “Rickie: 14.”

Parsons says his series depicts “an American landscape in illustrative compositions that highlight ways that human interaction with nature exists in today’s world.” He mentions that he was inspired by the Hudson River School of painters. 

"It is such a privilege to host the third annual Furman University Juried Art Competition," said Tami McKnew, attorney at Smith Moore Leatherwood. "We are honored to encourage young artists in the Upstate and to continue this relationship with the University. Congratulations to John, Jackson and to all the students who participated this year."  

The winner was announced at a reception on Jan. 11, 2018 celebrating the conclusion of the event.

Furman University is a private, coeducational liberal arts college in Greenville, South Carolina. For more information on Furman’s Art department, click here.