San Francisco Show Awards of Excellence

San Francisco's awards of excellence were juried by Regina Connell, founder and editor-in-chief of Handful of Salt. She was charged with choosing four exemplary artists out of the more than 250 at the show, a feat she said was quite difficult. And, the awards of excellence ceremony included, for the first time, a whisky toast to the artists and craftsmen at the show from The Balvenie Rare Craft Scotch Whisky spokesman Andrew Weir. Without further ado:

John Liston, based in Berkeley, California, was recognized for his creative home furnishings. With a background in jewelry and metal, he draws inspiration from industrial settings and architecture. This is his first public show of this body of work from his studio, which he opened just two years ago.

Nick Leonoff, a Brooklyn, New York, glass artist won an award for his layered and cold-worked vessels. His newest series is inspired by New York City, and the sort of organized chaos of the city grid. He combines multiple layers of glass which are cut in interesting designs - some traditional carvings mimic baskets and weavings, while others are more contemporary.

Jewelry maker Brandon Holschuh, of Concord Township, Ohio, won an award of excellence for his finely-crafted bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and rings. This is his second award of the ACC show season - he also won an award for booth design at the St. Paul Show in April. He creates a stand for each piece that shows off the jewelry when not in use, turning it into a miniature sculpture.

Emiko Oye, from San Francisco, won an award for booth design. Her work - repurposed Lego jewelry, inlaid with precious metals and gemstones - is brilliantly displayed in her finely-lit and white-hued booth. The checkerboard floor gives way to a central display case, made of folded carboard assembled much like a Lego building set. Her brightly-colored pieces become part of her booth installation that reflects her own bright personality.

Each winning artist receives a $500 cash award, automatic entrance into next year's shows, and the opportunity to take part in a micro-fundraising effort courtesy of United States Artists.