For photographer Carleen Jackson, the simplest things in life can often be the most stunning.

"I've told people that if you just drop me off in the middle of nowhere, I'm sure I can come up with a unique shot of something," said Jackson, who lives in Eaton.

Artwork of all types was on display Friday night at the 45th annual National Greeley Art Exhibition and Sale at New Frontier Bank, 2425 35th Ave. in Greeley. The event featured 189 works of art by 87 artists from across the nation in the media of oil, sculpture, collage and photography, as well as several water media, including acrylic painting.

Mike Beeman, who was the juror for the event, said the artwork at this year's show distinguished itself from other shows that he has judged.

"I think there's a high caliber of excellence in this show," said Beeman, who lives in Cheyenne, Wyo. "Just exceptional work."

Such praise is an example of how far the event has come. According to Colette Pitcher, a co-chairwoman of the event who also had three paintings on display, the exhibition began as a fundraiser for the American Association for University Women. Called Art Mart, Pitcher said the event was held in the garage of a local artist and more resembled a garage sale than art show. Proceeds from this year's event will benefit the Centennial Rotary Club, Pitcher said.

Yet, for many, the show was about much more than selling pictures. For Jackson, who entered only one art show a few years ago, it was a chance to display some of the artwork that she hopes to continue doing well into the future.

Though it did not win any awards, the artwork undoubtedly caught the eye of her husband, Rus Jackson, as well as many in the crowd.

"It's a God-given gift," said Rus Jackson, letting out a soft chuckle. "I couldn't do it. If I had a camera, I'd be taking pictures of (country music star) Faith Hill or something like that and nobody would ever look at it."

Award winners:

Best in Show: Annie Martinez of Broomfield: "Saguaro Blossom," Watercolor

First place: Oil

Andrea Gabel of Greeley: "The Canton Gardens"

First place: Water media, including acrylic painting

Julius Lisi of Drake: "Storm Coming"

First place: Drawing and Pastel

Keith Poulson of Loveland: "Rolling On"

First place: Sculpture, Collage, Photo/Digital

Tim King of Longmont: "Spring Flowers"