Neon lights forming exciting shapes are only some of the unusual sights you may see throughout Plaza of the Americas from July 11 through August 19. The sculptures that will grace the atrium are from the Texas Sculpture Association Third Annual National Juried Sculpture Competition and Exhibit. "Excellence 88" is underwritten by Plaza of the Americas. The Competition has become a showcase for sculptors from throughout the country. 1987's winners included Chris Powell of Ft. Worth; Terri Lindbloom of Corales, New Mexico; Michael Aurbach of Nashville, Tennessee; and Gary Monroe of Dallas. In 1988, each winner will receive a cash award in addition to recognition within the art world. Judges for the 1988 Competition are David Furchgott, director of the International Sculpture Center in Washington, D.C.; Ron Gleason, director of the Tyler Museum of Arts in Tyler, Texas; and Richard Hunt, a distinguished sculptor from Chicago. According to Co-chair Kaleta Doolin, judges reviewed computerized three-dimensional slides to determine which of the more than 500 sculptures entered in this year's Competition would be shown in the 103-piece Exhibit. These judges will return to Dallas for the grand opening, when they will choose Best of Show and other winners. "The pieces range from very traditional sculptures using such media as wood and stone, to non-traditional media like dazzling neon," explains Kaleta. The Texas Sculpture Association, founded in 1983, is a non-profit organization. Its 165 members include artists, teachers, professionals and business people who share an interest in sculpture. The annual juried Competition and Exhibit is designed to support artists by creating an outlet for their work. "The program recognizes quality work, then puts that work on public display where everyone has an opportunity to experience and enjoy the sculptures," Kaleta says. "Excellence 88" will be exhibited in the Plaza Gallery, on both levels of Plaza's atrium, and will spill outdoors onto the landscaped grounds.