Guinns choose artist for governor's portrait

(Appeal Capitol Bureau) - Washington state artist Michele Rushworth has been selected to paint Gov. Kenny Guinn's official portrait.

The state contracts for an oil portrait of each governor as he leaves office. The paintings hang in the state Capitol.

Guinn and his wife, Dema, selected Rushworth to do the painting. Dema Guinn said she was selected "for her remarkable ability to capture the true essence of her subjects. Her masterful skill will allow her to portray the governor at his very best."

Rushworth also has experience, having recently completed the official portrait of Washington State Governor Gary Locke. In addition, she completed a large portrait of the founding artistic directors of the Pacific Northwest Ballet, which now hangs in Seattle.

"She is not only a delightful person to work with, but made the entire process thoroughly pleasant and comfortable," said Locke.

Rushworth has been a professional artist more than 25 years, and makes her living painting commissioned portraits such as the painting of Guinn.

A committee organized by the Nevada Arts Council reviewed the submissions and narrowed the list of applicants to three for Guinn and the first lady to choose from.