Art of the Garden is a juried exhibition of original works of art featuring exquisite handcrafted works inspired by the natural beauty of gardens. Fifty artists created 90 pieces ranging from fiber art and delicate jewelry to ceramic garden sculptures.
Artist Duncan McClellan works from his state-of-the-art studio and glass gallery in St. Petersburg’s Warehouse Arts District. Her beautiful Dragonfly Vase uses a sand sculpting process that allows her to place images inside and outside the blown glass. It’s $7,200.
Laurie Landry of St. Petersburg starts with a simple thrift store find to create a series of delightful mosaics, featuring tiny animals in a garden setting. Mosaics like Squirrel! are created from glass, ceramic tiles, pieces of vintage plates, and animals such as a squirrel, dog, and other found objects. They are put together with charcoal grout and ready to hang on the wall.
Blacksmith and enameller, Diana Hirschhorn creates contemporary jewelry. Her sterling silver, 24-karat gold, titanium and copper jewelry often has accents of porcelain enamel, pearls or stones. Her Golden Ginkgo Fan Earrings are made from enamel baked on copper with acid etching.
Mark Anderson and Keith Bucklew have been involved with Florida CraftArt since moving to St. Petersburg. “We are thrilled to support Florida Craft Art and sponsor the inaugural ‘Art in the Garden’ exhibit,” said Anderson. “We hope the show will inspire people to bring more art into their green spaces.”
The exhibit will be judged by Jennifer O. Rominiecki, President and CEO of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens since 2015. She has twenty years of experience at major New York cultural institutions and served the New York Botanical Garden for 15 years. Earlier in his career, Romiecki held key positions at the Metropolitan Opera and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum.
The show runs until April 19, when the audience award will be presented. People can vote for their favorite artwork in the Florida CraftArt Exhibition Gallery and on Facebook. Guided tours are available on request.