2026 Prairie Arts Festival Judge: Karen Sako

Karen Sako is an award-winning fine artist, graphic designer, and instructor with over 30 years of experience. She holds a BFA in Visual Communications from the Illinois Institute of Art and is known for her dynamic approach to both studio and plein air painting.

Working at the intersection of abstraction and observation, Karen’s work explores light, texture, and atmosphere with emotional depth. Her paintings are held in private and corporate collections nationally and internationally. She is a member of the Suburban Sketchers of Long Grove, Visual Arts Center of Punta Gorda, Barrington Area Artists Association, DeSoto Arts Center Arcadia Florida, and the National Oil & Acrylic Painters Society.

2026 Prairie Arts Festival Judge: Cynthia Jones

A modern-day Renaissance artist, Cynthia Jones creates her artful world from ink, mosaics and paint to professional photography in her studio located Prairie View, IL. 

Cynthia creates powerful one-of-a-kind heart felt expressions. Cynthia’s work continues to evolve in abstraction. Currently embarking on a journey of shredding her own photography prints combined with paint and inks, Cynthia loves to see art birth through layers of natural light and intimate loving emotion. Cynthia celebrates within her creation the power of beauty she absorbs in the world around her. She is known for sharing her vivid “delicious guilty pleasure” of wild color, womanly form and stunning visions. 

A humbled award-winning artist and photographer, Cynthia only desires to bring the essence of creation into full force with a deep emotional truth.  Her current Paintings and Mixed Media Assemblage and fine art photography are usually one of a kind but sometimes limited-edition prints.  Her photography and art have been featured on clients’ websites. 

“It is my intention to soul connect with my art to those who feel its calling”. Cynthia loves to see her photographs and art in the hands of those who are inspired to get their own crayons out, brushes wet or looking through the lens. 

Cynthia considers herself to be a creative empathic spark to light others in their creative journey. Her gallery work has been showcased at East on Central in Highland Park, Art in the Barn and The Barrington White House in Barrington, and the Dole Mansion in Crystal Lake. She is a current member of the Barrington Art Association and is involved in several charitable local agencies.