A Touch of Spring Artists
Below read about each of the artists that entered artwork into the "In Flight" Show. MAKE SURE TO SCROLL DOWN TO SEE ALL OF THE ARTIST'S BIOS. THANK YOU!
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ARTISTS IN SHOW:
Sunil Ancha
Mary Atwood Marilyn Antram Christine Booras Linda Chipperfield Jessie Cook Cookie Davis Annelies Dykgraaf Jeanette Dennis |
Jared Ellis
Donna Chapman Grasso Leila Griffith Cindy Guy Farhana Hasan Shakir Husein Kim Hurt Linda LV Illgner Douglas W. Johnson, MD |
Leslie Kruzicki
Vicky Lennon Deborah Lightfield Lisa Lofton Ed Malesky Sunnie Malesky Alfredo Machado Abby Howard Murphy Alison McCauley |
Valentina Nedelcheva
Diantha York Ripley Cyndy Reynolds Marlene Scheer Lori Ann Sweet Susan Smith Jennie Szaltis Pat Setser Laurence Walden Danielle Wirsansky |
Artist Mary Atwood
Author and fine art photographer Mary Atwood is a long-time resident of the Florida’s First Coast area whose deep appreciation of its natural beauty, rich history and diverse culture is often reflected in her work.
As the daughter of a World War II military photographer, Mary grew up with a camera in hand. Her earliest memories of taking photographs are of using a Kodak Brownie when she was six years old. From there, her experiences involved learning to use a wide variety of camera equipment from Polaroid to Hasselblad, and just about everything in between.
Mary’s fine art photography is included in numerous public, private, and corporate collections in the both the United States and France. She was the recipient of the Community Foundation of Northeast Florida’s prestigious Art Ventures grant in 2011, has done commissioned work for MOCA Jacksonville, and was invited by the Sister Cities organization of Nantes, France to exhibit her First Coast Reflections project as part of the inaugural celebration for la Maison des Etates-Unis (The American House) during the summer of 2013.
Mary’s work has been exhibited in galleries, museums and public art venues, with over twenty solo shows. To date, her photographs have won more than fifty awards in local, regional and national juried exhibitions.
As the daughter of a World War II military photographer, Mary grew up with a camera in hand. Her earliest memories of taking photographs are of using a Kodak Brownie when she was six years old. From there, her experiences involved learning to use a wide variety of camera equipment from Polaroid to Hasselblad, and just about everything in between.
Mary’s fine art photography is included in numerous public, private, and corporate collections in the both the United States and France. She was the recipient of the Community Foundation of Northeast Florida’s prestigious Art Ventures grant in 2011, has done commissioned work for MOCA Jacksonville, and was invited by the Sister Cities organization of Nantes, France to exhibit her First Coast Reflections project as part of the inaugural celebration for la Maison des Etates-Unis (The American House) during the summer of 2013.
Mary’s work has been exhibited in galleries, museums and public art venues, with over twenty solo shows. To date, her photographs have won more than fifty awards in local, regional and national juried exhibitions.
Artist Sunil Ancha
Artist Jeanette Dennis
Oil painter and collage artist, Jeannette Dennis’s many years of experience as an art educator of elementary age children illustrated that art evokes emotion in its purest form regardless of the observer. She is a sensitive creator of the figure and nature, allowing the spirit within the image to touch those who view it.
Jeannette recognizes the importance of learning and growing as an artist. She accomplishes this through her affiliations with the following art organizations. Jacksonville Artist Guild (JAG), First Coast Plein Air Painters (FCPAP), Artist Guild of Orange Park (AGOP), St. Augustine Art Assoc. (St.AAA). |
Artist Christine Booras
Christine Borras – a native of Jacksonville has enjoyed exploring the woods, creeks since childhood. Ms. Booras attended the University of Florida and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology.
As an artist, author, athlete and musician Christine enjoys working with wire to design nature-themed art. See more of Christine’s work at www.DragonflyWarriorProductions.com
As an artist, author, athlete and musician Christine enjoys working with wire to design nature-themed art. See more of Christine’s work at www.DragonflyWarriorProductions.com
Artist Marilyn Antram
I am an Ohio-born artist, was a design major at Ohio State University and had the good fortune to be able to spend my early years in the vibrant, creative arena of American Greetings in Cleveland. After working there and then, for many years, as a freelance designer at my first career of graphic design, I felt the call to leave the computer and prusue fine art. Having done extensive illustration all during my career, drawing wasn't a problem, so I consulted with some of Jacksonville's well known artists and began. It has been a rewarding decision, both professionally and personally in a relatively short time. The learning continues by interacting with the many artistic, talented professionals in Jacksonville, taking workshops, attending shows and galleries, and lots of painting. I am a member of and treasurer of the First Coast Plein Air Painters, Jacksonville Artists Guild, St. Augustine Art Association, Pines and Palms Artists in Thomasville, GA and show at the Grace Gallery in the Ancient Olive in St. Augustine and at J.Gregory Gallery in San Marco in Jacksonville. I have a special fondness for the coastal US and the colorful scenes of the harbors from Maine to Florida, especially those with working fishing boats.
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Artist Linda Chipperfield
Linda Chipperfield is a formally trained watercolorist and designer with a BFA from Missouri State University. She has done commission portraits and other works in Missouri and Washington DC. In 2014 Linda was an artist in residence at the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria Virginia. Since relocating to Atlantic Beach, her work has been shown at Ponte Vedra Cultural Center, Gallery 725, Archway Gallery, MOCA, Florida State College, and Word Revolt Gallery among others.
Linda’s artwork is her advocacy. She loves to create and is passionate about protecting our environment and inspiring respect for nature. Eastern Monarch butterfly populations have declined by 80% since the 1980s. Extreme weather fluctuations caused by climate change, and the loss of the milkweed that they thrive on, have had a negative impact on these sensitive creatures. You can help the monarch population survive by planting milkweed in your garden. www.LindaChipperfield.com
Linda’s artwork is her advocacy. She loves to create and is passionate about protecting our environment and inspiring respect for nature. Eastern Monarch butterfly populations have declined by 80% since the 1980s. Extreme weather fluctuations caused by climate change, and the loss of the milkweed that they thrive on, have had a negative impact on these sensitive creatures. You can help the monarch population survive by planting milkweed in your garden. www.LindaChipperfield.com
Artist Jessie Cook
Jessie Cook is a still life and landscape artist who spent her childhood in such varied locales as Utah, Michigan, New York, and England. She graduated from SUNY Binghamton as a French literature major, and is a former fiction editor, rewrite “doctor,” and book designer.
Her painting studies began with Sherry Camhy of the Art Students League and with John Philip Osborne of the Ridgewood Art Institute. She is an award-winning artist and a member of the American Impressionist Society and Oil Painters of America. Her work has been featured in New York and in several Orlando and St. Augustine galleries, and she frequently participates in juried shows in the Jacksonville area. Website: www.jessiefineart.com Email: [email protected] |
Artist Anneiles Dykgraaf
Annelies Dykgraaf was born in Nigeria where she lived for 18 years. She has a BFA from Calvin College and studied in France through the Cleveland Institute of Art. Annelies moved from Michigan to Florida in 2001.
In 2008, Annelies was awarded an Art Ventures grant from the Community Foundation in Jacksonville. She is a founding member of Jacksonville Cultural Development Corporation (2004)(f/k/a JCAAA) and The Art Center Cooperative Inc. (2005). She served on the Board of the Beaches Fine Arts Series for 12 years and is currently the President of the Jacksonville Artists Guild.
Her art is mainly in relief work; carving into a block of wood or linoleum depicting people, symbols, textile patterns and motifs of West African culture/myths. Currently showing at the Florida Ballet (Nov.-Jan.2020); Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum (Port Elizabeth, South Africa); exhibited at The Beaches Museum (July 26- Nov. 11, 2019); The Appleton Museum of Art (Jan-June 2017), JIA Haskell Gallery, Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Wilson Center for the Arts Gallery at FSCJ South Campus, Karpeles Manuscript Museum, Reddi Arts Gallery 1037, FSCJ Kent and North Campus gallery, Riverside Fine Arts Series, Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum, the Jewish Community Alliance and other venues; and part of the permanent art collection at UNF Thomas G. Carpenter Library and The Appleton Museum of Art.
You can see more of her work at:
http://anneliesdykgraaf.com/
In 2008, Annelies was awarded an Art Ventures grant from the Community Foundation in Jacksonville. She is a founding member of Jacksonville Cultural Development Corporation (2004)(f/k/a JCAAA) and The Art Center Cooperative Inc. (2005). She served on the Board of the Beaches Fine Arts Series for 12 years and is currently the President of the Jacksonville Artists Guild.
Her art is mainly in relief work; carving into a block of wood or linoleum depicting people, symbols, textile patterns and motifs of West African culture/myths. Currently showing at the Florida Ballet (Nov.-Jan.2020); Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum (Port Elizabeth, South Africa); exhibited at The Beaches Museum (July 26- Nov. 11, 2019); The Appleton Museum of Art (Jan-June 2017), JIA Haskell Gallery, Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Wilson Center for the Arts Gallery at FSCJ South Campus, Karpeles Manuscript Museum, Reddi Arts Gallery 1037, FSCJ Kent and North Campus gallery, Riverside Fine Arts Series, Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum, the Jewish Community Alliance and other venues; and part of the permanent art collection at UNF Thomas G. Carpenter Library and The Appleton Museum of Art.
You can see more of her work at:
http://anneliesdykgraaf.com/
Artist Cookie Davis
COOKIE DAVIS is a native of Jacksonville and has been involved in the art community since the early 1970s both as an exhibiting artist and as a volunteer chairperson and board member of a number of cultural organizations and events. Ms. Davis’ sculptures and paintings are stories without words. She says of her work, “Over the years I have filled many sketch books with ideas and themes for sculptures. Beginning in early 2016, I began to translate some of these ideas into paintings...Story People on Canvas.” Cookie has work in permanent collections both nationally and internationally and is proud to have been the first recipient in 2014 of the Robert Arleigh White Award for Art Advocacy presented by the Cultural Council of Jacksonville.
Artist Jared Ellis
Writing a bio of myself is difficult due to an anoxic brain injury I suffered while running a half marathon in 2011. I turned my life around completely. Ninety nine percent of all of my memories have been wiped away from me, some lingering in the fog, but suffice it to say my memories are gone. I was an architect for a living. If you look at my artwork chronology on my website http://jaredellis.nobullart.com you can see the difference. I have attached AI (after injury) to the artwork that applies. Having to learn how to walk and talk again and learning how to hold a pencil at age 35 was difficult. When I came back from the hospital, I noticed my artwork and realized who I was and who I am. I don't want to be labeled as the disabled artist. I was an artist before my injury, and I am still an artist. Yes, my style has changed; in a way it has liberated me in some aspects. There's agony and grief in art, so these are mine, and I'm not bitter about it. I am happy that my love of art stayed intact. I embrace that I have rediscovered 20th century art where I found my acceptance again. I attended Pinellas County Center for the Arts, which is a magnet high school for the arts in St Pete; that's where my training began as an artist. These few memories that I am mentioning came from friends and family and social media. Facebook actually comes in handy in a situation like this. I like to think about how Marcel Duchamp called his early years swimming lessons. People usually don't forget how to swim. I would like to give thanks to the beloved Craig Erskine of the Jacksonville Art League.
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He has passed on and is severely missed! He was my mentor and best friend. Thanks to my mother for finding him. He taught me how to tread water again. I am still learning new strokes everyday, going to be swimming for a while until the end. I am looking toward the future when i will not need to bring up my injury and can write a regular bio. My current inspirations in the arts are post impressionist art, romanticism and abstract expressionism.
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Artist Donna Chapman Grasso
Donna Chapman Grasso is a professional fine artist specializing in animal portraits, landscapes, homes, wildlife, and nature, Plein Aire and character studies.
Media includes graphite, pastel, watercolor, oil and mixed media. She continues to be an active equestrian and competes in herding with her Malinois "Wendy" and her sisters Malinois "Remmy". Her knowledge of livestock, the natural world and all animals is evident in her work. |
Artist Leila Griffith
Leila Griffith was raised in Georgia by a well known Golden Isles artist mother, she studied painting most of her young life and ultimately pursued a visual arts degree at Georgia State University. After college, fate had a different plan for her and she embarked on a career in catalog merchandising, which she enjoyed for over 35 years. She traveled the globe exploring wholesale trade shows, artists’ studios, rural warehouses, antiques markets and arts museums and markets to source and develop the most appropriate products for the discriminating direct mail audience.
She designed, merchandised, and managed the gallery shop at The Bascom, a Visual Arts Center, in Highlands, NC, for five years, but she rarely picked up a brush or pencil until four years ago. When recovering from several serious health issues, and the need to lighten her mood, family and friends encouraged her to rediscover her inner creative voice – and she has found her new passion.
Her work now mostly reflects her love of flora, fauna and nature and her world travels - whether detailing memories of Paris flower shops, farmers’ markets in Chile, wood storks by a neighborhood stream, canine companions, parks outside of London or small Italian villages, she is inspired by color and all things living.
She designed, merchandised, and managed the gallery shop at The Bascom, a Visual Arts Center, in Highlands, NC, for five years, but she rarely picked up a brush or pencil until four years ago. When recovering from several serious health issues, and the need to lighten her mood, family and friends encouraged her to rediscover her inner creative voice – and she has found her new passion.
Her work now mostly reflects her love of flora, fauna and nature and her world travels - whether detailing memories of Paris flower shops, farmers’ markets in Chile, wood storks by a neighborhood stream, canine companions, parks outside of London or small Italian villages, she is inspired by color and all things living.
Artist Cindy Guy
Cindy has always been interested in art and in the past twenty years has journeyed from interested to being a participant. She began taking ceramic workshops, jewelry workshops, watercolor, drawing and travel journaling classes in Asheville, NC and Jacksonville and continues today to develop her techniques, styles and skills through these same opportunities.
Her passions are art, travel, gardening and the outdoors and she uses every opportunity to incorporate her impressions and experiences into her art. As an avid Anglophile she was delighted to use some of the cottage types she visited in England and inhabit them with nesting and curious birds. She hopes you enjoy her English Thatched Cottage with a curious bluebird and her English Cottage Birdhouse with a nesting Cardinal. |
Artist Farhana Hasan
Artist Shakir Husein
Shakir has had a lifelong passion for painting and has practiced in a variety of mediums including watercolors, acrylics, and oils. Largely self-taught, he began painting in his native Guyana where he was influenced by local landscape artists. He later lived in many of the Caribbean islands and developed a passion for bright and cherry landscapes, beaches and seascapes.
While resident in the Cayman Islands, Shakir was an active member of the Visual Arts Society where he studied under resident artists and frequent guest artists from the USA. He exhibited and sold art through the society and also through local art vendors who catered to a vibrant tourism market. Shakir works part-time from his studio at home and paints primarily in oils with a focus on the American landscape. |
Artist Kim Hurt
Each image begins life as a sketch, the sketching process allows me to pour out Each image begins life as a sketch, the sketching process allows me to pour out ideas onto paper and refine them. I work out the composition and make notes about color, textur, props, costume and location. Once all these elements have coalesced into a single narrative, I begin gathering the materials needed to make costumes or build props. Location scouting is the most time-consuming part of the image preparation because I need to visit a potential location multiple times at different times of day to gauge the quality and direction of available light.
Artist Linda LV Illgner
A very special friend gave me a collage with these words by Georgia O’Keefe that guide me, “Nobody sees a flower - really - it is so small it takes time - we haven't time - and to see takes time, like to have a friend takes time.”
My work is an invitation to take time. I offer original collage pieces using handmade paper and found altered paper that add details to discover the more you study a piece. My work is meant to inspire, encourage, and motivate the viewer. With an interior design background and working in the building industry for over 25 years, attention to detail becomes second nature. The details in the collages are my way of bringing the viewer in, stimulating your eyes with inspiring words, textures, or images that excite you and yet require you to take time; time to stop, look, feel, listen. |
Artist Douglas W. Johnson
Doug Johnson has been painting for over 45 years, using his talents to describe in oils and acrylics his travels, careers, and passions for nature, medicine, technology, and aviation.
Born at the West Point Military Academy, Doug traveled the world as an “Air Force brat” during his youth. After receiving his B.S from Virginia Tech and M.D. from the Medical College of Virginia, he studied Internal Medicine in San Antonio, followed by Radiation Oncology at Stanford. After several years as an active duty U.S. Air Force cancer specialist, flight surgeon, and hospital administrator, Dr. Johnson continued his civilian practice in Florida and Georgia.
Creativity lies at the heart of what drives Dr. Johnson: “My world revolves around thinking in three or four dimensions, whether it involves creating complex treatments to target cancer, winging safely through the skies as a pilot, or to laying down feelings and memories on canvas.”
Although largely self-taught, Doug has studied under artists Paul Ladnier, Greg Barnes, Ken Dewaard, George Van Hook, and Bill Farnsworth. He is a member of the St. Augustine and North Georgia Art Associations, Jacksonville Artist Guild, Jacksonville Coalition for Visual Arts, and the First Coast Plein Air Painters association.
Born at the West Point Military Academy, Doug traveled the world as an “Air Force brat” during his youth. After receiving his B.S from Virginia Tech and M.D. from the Medical College of Virginia, he studied Internal Medicine in San Antonio, followed by Radiation Oncology at Stanford. After several years as an active duty U.S. Air Force cancer specialist, flight surgeon, and hospital administrator, Dr. Johnson continued his civilian practice in Florida and Georgia.
Creativity lies at the heart of what drives Dr. Johnson: “My world revolves around thinking in three or four dimensions, whether it involves creating complex treatments to target cancer, winging safely through the skies as a pilot, or to laying down feelings and memories on canvas.”
Although largely self-taught, Doug has studied under artists Paul Ladnier, Greg Barnes, Ken Dewaard, George Van Hook, and Bill Farnsworth. He is a member of the St. Augustine and North Georgia Art Associations, Jacksonville Artist Guild, Jacksonville Coalition for Visual Arts, and the First Coast Plein Air Painters association.
Artist Leslie Kruzicki
Born in NJ, Leslie enjoyed growing up in a creative atmosphere. She watched her parents perform in, or direct productions by the local community theater. Some of her parents' friends were visual artists. Her first formal art lessons were at age 8. Leslie studied Fine Arts and Literature, receiving a dual BA from Ramapo College. She worked as a Graphic Artist in Virginia as well as opening her own Boudoir Photography Studio. For many years her garden and photography were her means of visual expression. She returned to painting in 2007. Her work has grown and expanded from photography & watercolor, to include a passion for mixed media. Learning new techniques and improving her skills is a constant goal. She is grateful to live in an area with an intensely active artistic community and belongs to several local arts organizations. Her work can be viewed and purchase on line at SharedVisionsArt.com
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Artist Vicky Lennon
My paintings are always a process. I work intuitively as the image evolves. Varied layers of glazing give lushness and depth, while the addition of mediums helps to create the textures that emerge in the final image. I work pushing and pulling shapes, surfaces, and colors, until I am excited with the uniqueness of each piece.
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Artist Deborah Lightfield
Deborah Lightfield worked for 20+ years in both teaching and the jewelry industry. She earned her BFA and BS; however, she feels that most of what she creates in art is through experimentation and life’s journeys. Art has been woven into every aspect of her life and now is being expressed on canvas.
Deborah Lightfield wants you to feel the joy in her artwork. Seeing, feeling, and expressing joy is essential to her mission as an artist to beckon others into a world of possibility. Art reflects one’s surroundings, beliefs, and experiences. Surrounding myself with people, music and energy is important to me. My intention is for my art to interpret these subjects while using expressive colors, visual textures, and joyful compositions. My desire is to envelop people and positivity while visually expressing this in layers and through various perspectives. I want to make a statement about the world within my work, seeing similarities, embracing differences, and making harmonious music visually. |
Lightfieldart.com
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Artist Lisa Lofton
Lisa has been a resident of Jacksonville Florida for over 35 years. She is a member of The Jacksonville Artists Guild, The Art League of Jacksonville, and the Murray Hill Art Center. She has a true love of all art that is POP! She has a very real interest in Jacksonville history and Architecture which is the inspiration for many of her original acrylics and prints. She recently displayed her work at an Artists Guild event which commemorated Jacksonville where she was honored to receive the Jurors award. She has also shown and sold work at The Riverside Avondale Home Tour Art House and Preview Auction. Her work has also been displayed at "The Vault at 1930" in San Marco, Jacksonville. Lisa Is committed to paint all of Jacksonville one canvas at a time!
Artist Ed Malesky
Ed has always been interested in woodworking and developed his skills to focus on woodturning as art.
He feels that creating his art always starts with a beautiful form. Turning wood into these forms is a truly tactile and very enjoyable experience, complicated by the fact that wood is an organic material that moves and distorts as it dries or contains hidden defects. Sometimes he can use these features and sometimes he needs to plan ahead to get the form he wants. A beautiful form can be enough, especially when he has used a spectacular piece of wood. However, his real goal is to draw an emotional response from the viewer, so often this initial form is just the canvas for his work. He loves adding color and texture to his pieces using dyes, paints, pyrography and other processes that allows the viewer to see something beyond just a piece of wood. The love of color and shapes has also led him into the world of digital images. Ed is amazed at the way a computer can generate beautiful images starting with some simple forms. There is a lot an artist needs to add however, since there are thousands of variables to apply to these simple forms to create a beautiful image. Once all the parameters are set, the computer begins the arduous task of rendering the image, which in many cases takes more than a day. |
Form and color, texture and complexity are his tools, whether in wood or on paper.
You can see more of Ed's work at the following links: https://www.pinterest.com/edmalesky/turning-arts/ https://www.pinterest.com/edmalesky/eds-abstractions/ https://www.facebook.com/turningartsgroup/ www.turningartsgroup.com |
Artist Sunnie Malesky
Sunnie Malesky grew up in a home where creativity was valued, leading to a lifetime of making things and teaching others how to do the same. Her interest in fiber arts includes 35 years of teaching quilt-making in a variety of styles, and she has recently branched off into making books in various forms.
“Fabric and thread are familiar to all people and provide a way to relate to a piece of art that other media may not, " she says. “Sewing machines have been used to create art for over 150 years, and it will always be my favorite tool.”
“Fabric and thread are familiar to all people and provide a way to relate to a piece of art that other media may not, " she says. “Sewing machines have been used to create art for over 150 years, and it will always be my favorite tool.”
Artist Alfredo Machado
Alfredo, lifetime painter and successful photographer has exclusively dedicated himself to painting over the last several years.
Born in Venezuela and lived in Puerto Rico for 40 years. His work is characterized by a Latin American flavor and influence and can be described as superficially “naïf” and colorful, with a dose of magical realism.
Alfredo is represented by the Art Center Cooperative Inc, Saatchiart, and Artmajeur.
You can see more of Alfredo's work on his website: AlfredoMachadoZingg.com.
Born in Venezuela and lived in Puerto Rico for 40 years. His work is characterized by a Latin American flavor and influence and can be described as superficially “naïf” and colorful, with a dose of magical realism.
Alfredo is represented by the Art Center Cooperative Inc, Saatchiart, and Artmajeur.
You can see more of Alfredo's work on his website: AlfredoMachadoZingg.com.
Artist Abby Howard Murphy
This award-winning northeast Florida artist developed a love of place and an appreciation for natural wonders as a child with some inspiration from an adventurous travel agent mother, a creative DIY father and an artist babysitter.
Abby received her B.A. from the School of International Service at The American University with a minor in Environmental Studies, specializing in marine biology, limnology, and law of the sea; interned for the International Institute for Environment and Development; created an illustrated guide to dune plants of the Turks and Caicos Islands on site; and painted scenery for the Connecticut Repertory Theater-Nutmeg Summer Series.
Abby received her B.A. from the School of International Service at The American University with a minor in Environmental Studies, specializing in marine biology, limnology, and law of the sea; interned for the International Institute for Environment and Development; created an illustrated guide to dune plants of the Turks and Caicos Islands on site; and painted scenery for the Connecticut Repertory Theater-Nutmeg Summer Series.
Artist Alison McCauley
There are many reasons why I choose to paint, foremost is the love of observing the beauty that abounds in nature and attempting to capture some of that beauty on canvas. My paintings are typically representational with an occasional trip into the slightly more abstract.
Many of my images have a strong sense of place and reflect the different regions where I have lived. Born in North Carolina, I grew up in Florida. After starting college in Rome, GA, I moved to Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia and returned to Florida in 2018. In my portfolio you will find many images of my favorite places in Raleigh and Charleston, Wrightsville and Huntington beaches, and vacation spots like Black Mountain. Oils are my usual medium of choice.
Clay work has been a part of my life since college. My first paintings were on pots. These days I only work occasionally in clay. I have included a few pieces in my collection of works. These are one of a kind. I am not accepting clay commissions but would be happy to consider commissions for paintings.
Many of my images have a strong sense of place and reflect the different regions where I have lived. Born in North Carolina, I grew up in Florida. After starting college in Rome, GA, I moved to Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia and returned to Florida in 2018. In my portfolio you will find many images of my favorite places in Raleigh and Charleston, Wrightsville and Huntington beaches, and vacation spots like Black Mountain. Oils are my usual medium of choice.
Clay work has been a part of my life since college. My first paintings were on pots. These days I only work occasionally in clay. I have included a few pieces in my collection of works. These are one of a kind. I am not accepting clay commissions but would be happy to consider commissions for paintings.
Artist Cyndy Reynolds
Cyndy Ira Reynolds, a native of Jacksonville, Florida, developed her love of pottery during the long winters in Wisconsin where she managed a hotel for Marriott. Upon retiring in 2017, she and her husband moved back to Jacksonville where she, with the support and assistance from her father, established her own pottery studio in the family’s former car shop and began her new venture, Cirama Pottery and More.
Based on her love of gardening and achieving Master Gardener status in both Wisconsin and Florida, her work has been nature-inspired and driven by intriguing textures and shapes. Cyndy doesn’t just admire leaves on the neighborhood trees, but takes samples and turns those leaves into planters, bowls, platters and trays.
An enthusiast of both wheel and slab creation, Cyndy has successfully marketed her functional and garden whimsical work at art and garden events. She uses primarily mid-range clays and glazes and is at work most days in her shop amid the leftover tools from the shop’s history of creating national championship racing cars.
Based on her love of gardening and achieving Master Gardener status in both Wisconsin and Florida, her work has been nature-inspired and driven by intriguing textures and shapes. Cyndy doesn’t just admire leaves on the neighborhood trees, but takes samples and turns those leaves into planters, bowls, platters and trays.
An enthusiast of both wheel and slab creation, Cyndy has successfully marketed her functional and garden whimsical work at art and garden events. She uses primarily mid-range clays and glazes and is at work most days in her shop amid the leftover tools from the shop’s history of creating national championship racing cars.
Artist Valentina Nedelcheva
Valentina was born and brought up in Bulgaria. She studied in Kiev´s University of cultural Arts. In 2008 she has finished the unique Bulgarian school of untraditional art with well known Stefka Baldjieva.
There are different techniques in finger painting. All her work is done by her fingers with no brushes used, directly on the canvas without preliminary sketches or compositions on subconscious level.
Valentina expresses her inner world the harmony of colors, including them as elements of universal harmony. Created on the level of subconscious, these paintings radiate energy which flows into every one who sees them.
For Valentina painting is a purification, love and joy.
There are different techniques in finger painting. All her work is done by her fingers with no brushes used, directly on the canvas without preliminary sketches or compositions on subconscious level.
Valentina expresses her inner world the harmony of colors, including them as elements of universal harmony. Created on the level of subconscious, these paintings radiate energy which flows into every one who sees them.
For Valentina painting is a purification, love and joy.
Artist Diantha Your Ripley
Diantha York-Ripley is a fine artist and painter specializing in floral, still life, Florida marshes and waterways created in acrylics and mixed media.
Diantha developed a keen interest in art from an early age. It wasn’t until her first art class at the University of North Florida, however, that she discovered, “These people are speaking my language.” While working on her Bachelors of Fine Arts degree, her technique was honed and refined. Diantha was also a flight attendant with a major airline, both before school and during, which broadened her global perspective and influenced her perceptions of the beautiful world in which we live. She has attended workshops in both the United States and Europe, and is a member of the Jacksonville Coalition for the Visual Arts, the St. Augustine Art Association, the Jacksonville Museum of Contemporary Art, The Cummer Gallery of Art and Gardens and The Art Institute of Chicago. Diantha is married with two adult children and enjoys gardening, cooking, reading and spoiling her grandchildren and her black German Shepherd, Raven.
Diantha developed a keen interest in art from an early age. It wasn’t until her first art class at the University of North Florida, however, that she discovered, “These people are speaking my language.” While working on her Bachelors of Fine Arts degree, her technique was honed and refined. Diantha was also a flight attendant with a major airline, both before school and during, which broadened her global perspective and influenced her perceptions of the beautiful world in which we live. She has attended workshops in both the United States and Europe, and is a member of the Jacksonville Coalition for the Visual Arts, the St. Augustine Art Association, the Jacksonville Museum of Contemporary Art, The Cummer Gallery of Art and Gardens and The Art Institute of Chicago. Diantha is married with two adult children and enjoys gardening, cooking, reading and spoiling her grandchildren and her black German Shepherd, Raven.
Artist Marlene Scheer
Marlene Scheer was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. In 2009, Marlene and her husband Stuart moved to Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida to share in the wonderful life her children were experiencing living at the beach, and to paint the natural beauty of Northern Florida. Marlene’s love of painting, and art in general, began in her childhood, taking classes and experimenting with cubism, expressionism, abstraction and collage. Her work has developed into a representational expression using color as her essential element to express her artistic visions.
In New York, Marlene studied at the Art Students League of NY along with with many important teachers to help hone her skills and techniques. Regular visits to MOMA, THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART and N.Y. galleries offered an art education that was extremely important to her development. Her painting technique is one that continues to change since experimentation plays an important role in her work. and continues to do so based on what she sees and feels at the moment. Her passion for color and experimentation takes her work into her own very unique style.ence and History. |
Artist Lori Ann Sweet
It is hard to imagine when a pencil or paintbrush was not in my hands.
The pencil began a personal journal documenting ones journey and influences. One repetitive theme is experiencing nature and the habitats or wildlife up close. This has led down paths least predicted and offered much more than one could ever hope for. This has impacted the subject matter when creating and offered valuable life time of experiences. The story began while growing up on the shore of Long Island, NY. Traveling became a part of every day adventure. I found comfort in learning about history, enthusiasm in creating, and peace in observation of nature. I attend the School of Visual Arts, NYC, NY and became a recipient of both the MFA and BFA. This offered an awakening on how to express and create artwork. When my husband and I moved to Florida in 2015 the colors and stories being told had developed into a new chapter. The artwork is a small sample reflecting only an afternoon or in one’s life. There story will continue and there is so much more to express and be told. |
Social Media Links . Website: Lori Sweet Fine Art . Facebook: (20+) Lori Ann Sweet Gallery | Facebook
Instagram: Lori Ann Sweet (@lorisweet94) • Instagram photos and videos |
Artist Susan Smith
Susan's goal as an abstract artist is to create a provocative image that encourages viewers to look further. Layer by layer, she builds up the painting then obscures or unearths parts of it. This back and forth creates a dialogue which determines the direction of the piece.
She uses a variety of tools and techniques. Acrylic paints figure prominently, as well as paper which she finds or embellishes and uses as collage elements. Stamping, scratching, adding found objects and creating three- dimensional areas are all fair game. Kitchenware shops, hardware stores and antique stores are some of her favorite hunting grounds for non-traditional tools. As she works on the painting, adding elements, she may be drawn to certain areas which she will then enhance; conversely, she may cloud areas to create a sense of mystery. As Susan lets the painting speak to her, she aims to develop a composition that will pique curiosity, inviting viewers to sit a bit and enjoy her imagery. |
Artist Jennie Szaltis
Painting and teaching watercolor has been my passion for over 30 years, during this time I had held several positions in the local Watercolor Society including Past President and Artist of the Year.
Currently, I teach watercolor lessons and workshops out of my studio in Jacksonville, FL. Off-site classes, workshops, and private lessons are available. The thrill of experiencing the student "catch on" is the most meaningful part of my work in addition to being recognized by my peers. |
Artist Pat Setser
Pat Setser has been a creative all of her life. As a child she was awarded a scholarship to the Dayton Art Institute. She has continued her art studies, classes and workshops throughout high school, college and in her adult life.
The beauty of the natural world and its people are what inspires her. Pat has traveled to many continents where she enjoyed the landscapes, the history, the art and the people.
Experimental and diverse themes encompass her work. Over the years, Pat has done sculpting, mural art and textile art. She has used an array of art materials in her work such as oil, watercolor, acrylic, colored pencil, graphite. Now she primarily does mixed media art. She also does commissioned artwork.
As an award-winning artist who belongs to the Jacksonville Branch of the National League of American Pen Women, Inc., SoMMA (Society of Mixed Media Artists) and JAG (Jacksonville Artists Guild), she continues to enjoy supporting other artists and learning. Pat has recently won awards at MoSH and in Washington D.C. Her art is in collections
in Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky and Ohio.
The beauty of the natural world and its people are what inspires her. Pat has traveled to many continents where she enjoyed the landscapes, the history, the art and the people.
Experimental and diverse themes encompass her work. Over the years, Pat has done sculpting, mural art and textile art. She has used an array of art materials in her work such as oil, watercolor, acrylic, colored pencil, graphite. Now she primarily does mixed media art. She also does commissioned artwork.
As an award-winning artist who belongs to the Jacksonville Branch of the National League of American Pen Women, Inc., SoMMA (Society of Mixed Media Artists) and JAG (Jacksonville Artists Guild), she continues to enjoy supporting other artists and learning. Pat has recently won awards at MoSH and in Washington D.C. Her art is in collections
in Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky and Ohio.
Artist Laurence Walden
Laurence Walden AKA “Blinky” is a native of Chicago, he now resides in Jacksonville Florida. He is a self-taught visual artist as well as an accomplished Jazz Vocalist, Playwright and historian. Laurence, an honorable discharged United States Air Force Veteran, served as a Technical Illustrator and was the featured vocalist with the air force jazz band during the Viet Nam era. While in the force, he created costumes and album cover for Issac Hayes, The Bar Kays and Jimi Hendrix. He has received many honors for his art worldwide.
One of Walden’s visual art rendering specialties is creating decorative masks out of fine dining silverware and other found objects in addition to rendering abstract paintings, mixed media collages, murals and portraits. He also designs and creates wearable art accessories to include clutch purses, steampunk hats, T-Shirt designs and jewelry.
Laurence believes that great art is the result of a collaboration between GOD and the artist, “Our Father Who ART In Heaven”.
One of Walden’s visual art rendering specialties is creating decorative masks out of fine dining silverware and other found objects in addition to rendering abstract paintings, mixed media collages, murals and portraits. He also designs and creates wearable art accessories to include clutch purses, steampunk hats, T-Shirt designs and jewelry.
Laurence believes that great art is the result of a collaboration between GOD and the artist, “Our Father Who ART In Heaven”.
Artist Danielle Wirsansky
Danielle Wirsansky is a photographer for 3 Muses Photography. A current theme of her body of work is anemoia, a longing for a time or place you have never known. She plays with the concept through dress, staging, setting, models, editing, and even the display style of the photographs. Her work is meant to throwback to an older time and invoke a feeling of nostalgia and curiosity in the viewer.
Upon graduating with her masters, Danielle began working as a studio photographer and freelance photographer. She was named a Top Local Artist by St. John’s Magazine in 2018. Over 2021, her work was published in over 25 different magazines internationally and displayed in six different exhibits in the North Florida area. She is currently pursuing a PhD in History at Florida State University. She is a proud member of FemArt Gallery. |