It seems that with the New Year gone, everyone has gone into ‘award season’ mode in order to showcase the best of whatever kind of award you can think of for 2011.

Hundreds packed the entrance to the Grauman’s Chinese Theater ballroom for a chance to obtain tickets for the near sold out event.

For Heidi Luerra, executive director and founder of RAW Natural Artists, this awards show was no walk in the park.

“It’s a lot of work.  It’s so rewarding and so awesome in so many ways.  I am so proud to represent all the artists that we are showcasing tonight.  Over the last two years it’s just grown…It’s a proud moment”

As guests walked into the ballroom of the Chinese Theater, you are instantly surrounded by works of art covering every square inch of wall space.  For one San Diego artist, Jason Acton, being able to showcase his work to so many people is a dream come true.  

“I Love RAW!  These guys go out of their way to make sure you need everything and to get you out there, and to do as much as they possibly can for you.” 

Jason brought to the showcase some screen prints and acrylic works that very much roots itself in pop culture, and requiring some 3D glasses.  You can see more of his work at actonstandard.com.

 From across the nation Raw Natural Artists connects and gives independent artists the ability to showcase their talents, whether that be music, art, photography, film, or design, there is a place for every kind of artist in this organization.  And seeing the huge turnout for the awards show, it is safe to say that Raw Natural Artists had made a mark on the local cities it represents.

“It is such an honor to be judging such amazing raw talent”, says Brig Van Austin of Simi Valley, one of the guest judges for the award show.  “I think RAW offers an opportunity for everybody, there is no excuse not to enter your work and be part of this amazing organization.  It’s creative, its raw, its gritty and its super talented!”

For more information on RAW Natural Artists visit www.rawartists.org and purchase a ticket for one of the local showcases that are held in either The Yost Theater in Downtown Santa Ana, or The El Ray in Los Angeles.