One of the largest indie art award shows, RAWawards, is coming to a close this year, and it’s time to vote. The annual show, held by RAW:natural born artists, hosts a 2.5 month competition where more than 10,000 artist from around the world compete for a prize package of placement in a gallery, consultations and lifetime exposure. Peers, creative celebrities and industry professionals narrowed down the competition to just seven finalists.

 

 

 

For 2012, here are Denver’s crème de la crème:

 

 

“She Sees” by Visual Artist of the Year Aaron Acker

Aaron Acker

The 27-year-old artist is best known for his portraits, floral and landscape paintings. He was in his first art show when he was just 4 years old and since then has had his work featured in national calendars, solo shows and private collections. Next year he will be touring the US to promote art education in public schools.

 

Phlight Krew

This creative clothing line has a positive message: never give up on your dreams. Reality isn’t real, but dreams are.

 

Cassandra Lourie

Creator of Broken Revolt jewelry line, her pieces feature industrial-style designs for the bold, feminine woman. Using brass, copper, wire, bullets,

Jewelry by Accessory Artist of the Year Broken Revolt. Photo credit Randall Stillwell Photography

gears and feathers, this jewelry is sure to make a statement.

 

Diego A. Rodriguez C.

This bilingual filmmaker does it all: he directs, produces and even finds time for acting and photography. You may have seen his work on National Geographic, Verizon Wireless, HBO, Miller Lite or Univision.

 

Hector Lara

Better known as DJ HEX, this dj spins at clubs all over Denver and is influenced by artists like Fools Gold and The Allies.

 

Andye

This self-described rock n’ roll shaman connects with the dead through her psychic powers.

 

 

Photo by Angelique Olin

Angelique Olin

This photographer lets the human body does the talking as she captures the curves, angles and shadows that make each of us unique and beautiful.

 

Keep your fingers that one of them wins. From here on, these seven will compete against similar artists from 53 other locations. The judges will pick the winner and will air the results in early December.

 

Come on, Denver!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Stephanie Richards is the art and culture editor of 303 Magazine.