A Buffalo contest of the artists’ paintings (New York) for the best picture of the season was held at the group exhibition “Winter showing of painting of 2001” in the Artist Association Central Exhibition Hall “Williamsville Art Society”. 200 pictorial, watercolor and graphic works introduced by 100 artists of the State of New York. In the nomination “Painting” the picture “The Novodevichiy Convent” won the competition and got the 1st price. At present this work is exhibited in the private collection. It resulted in the admit ion of the painter to the American Artists Union “Western New York Artists Group”.