Third Time’s the Charm: A Win at the Midwest Museum Juried Competition

There’s something humbling about rejection—especially as an artist. It can wear you down, chip away at your confidence, and make you question if you should keep going. I’ve felt that. Twice, I submitted my work to the Midwest Museum of American Art’s Juried Regional Competition—and twice, I was denied.

So, when the opportunity came around again, I was fully prepared to sit this one out.

But then came the voice of encouragement I didn’t know I needed: Shireen Johnson. With her signature wisdom and calm conviction, she reminded me that rejection isn’t the end. She told me that each jury is different, each panel brings new eyes and new perspectives—and that I must keep showing up.

So I did.

And not only was my piece accepted this time—I won an award. The “Well Crafted” Merit Award. I was completely ecstatic, stunned, and filled with gratitude.

Walking through that exhibit and seeing my work among artists I’ve long admired was surreal. These are creators whose booths I’ve walked past in awe at art fairs, whose words I’ve clung to for guidance, and whose careers have inspired me to keep growing. And now—I was standing beside them.

That moment affirmed a powerful truth: consistency is key. Not perfection, not luck, not even perfect timing—but showing up again and again, especially when it’s hard.

To any artist who's ever felt like giving up after a “no”—this is your sign. Keep going. Keep applying. Keep believing.

I’m so glad I did.

Art Beat 2024

Art Beat 2024 was filled with activities from start to finish. As per usual, Kamika offers significant discounts on her art once a year exclusively at Art Beat (since it's the only major festival that fits into her busy schedule). Additionally, Kamika and her husband, Tavarus Perry, collaborate with their micro-meadery, Perry Vine, to create an Art + Wine experience in their 10'x20' tent.

Art Beat attracts over 20,000 attendees, making it one of the largest art fairs in the Michiana region. This year, Kamika was uncertain about her participation. She had been dealing with health issues throughout the year, visiting multiple doctors to determine the cause of her unusual symptoms. She experienced vision problems, random blurring, tremors, and fatigue. Eventually, she was diagnosed with Graves' disease and possibly thyroid cancer simultaneously. It had already been a challenging year with her mother frequently hospitalized, along with managing her three young children and two other businesses.

Visitors at KP Art + Perry Vine tent

Painting had always been Kamika's refuge during stressful times, and it felt as though this solace was being taken away from her. Despite the obstacles, Kamika managed to bring 20 artworks with her, consisting of 10 abstract shapes and 10 abstract portraits. She sold all but 8 pieces. To cap it all off, she received the "Best in Show" award at the end of the day! Kamika is not one to cry in public, but she certainly wept like a baby when she got home.

"It demonstrates that dedication and passion truly yield results, and regardless of the obstacles, continue pursuing what you love," Kamika says.

Kamika Gets Featured in PAN-O-PLY Magazine

PAN-O-PLY magazine stands as a prominent art publication in the Michiana area, featuring an extensive array of artist features including poetry, sculpture, paintings, and more.

Kamika Perry was approached by owner Dan Breen and writer Jan Wiezorek, who had come across her work and inquired if she could be featured in their summer issue. How could Kamika refuse? PAN-O-PLY magazine was prominently displayed at the South Bend Museum of Art, the renowned Midwest Museum of American Art, Elkhart La Macaron, Art + Elements in Mishawaka, and numerous other venues. It was an excellent chance for her to share her story.

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