Blacktop Shares his Memories
April 6th, 2013
For Ken "Blacktop" Gentle, a trip down memory lane involves a mental journey to his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama. We were pleased to host Ken on Saturday for the opening of his show "Recollections of My Youth", complete with sweet tea, home made pimento cheese, and a Spiced Bourbon Tea that hit the spot. The show is populated with characters he grew up with, scenes from country roads, and images of the Civil Rights movement. The show runs through April 28. Pictured here are Ken on the left, Jeanine, and folk art collector Howard Marks.
The Earth Angels arrive for the heART of Winter Extravaganza!
February 28th, 2013
Anticipation has been building for months as we welcome back the exuberant and talented artists known as The Earth Angels. Jennifer O'Connor leads this merry band of women across the country for pop-up shows that draw hundreds of adoring fans.
Their wares are one of a kind treasures, from folk art paintings to vintage upcycled jewelry and whimsical decor for the home. Featured artists who will make the trip to Florida are Jennifer Lanne, Laurie Meseroll, Letty Worley Brooks, Valerie Weberpal, Melody Elizabeth, and Jane Dagmi. With over 800 items curated for this show, it will be an extravaganza that you don't want to miss!
Friday's show opens at 3pm and closes at 7pm. Saturday hours will be 10am to 4pm.
It's a JUBILEE! Around Here
February 16th, 2013
When Theresa Disney comes to visit, there's always cause for celebration. The happy quotient goes waaaay up whenever she fills the gallery with her latest creations. This year's 2013 collection is no different. Bold florals, winsome birds, and quirky characters are featured all around. Step into the wonderful world of Theresa Disney and you're guaranteed to leave with a smile. You'll find more images under the Current Show tab on our front page.
The Flying Monk has Landed!
January 26th, 2013
We had the pleasure recently of meeting the fictional (and heartfelt) character known as William Gaudeloupe, the Flying Monk. You can even follow his escapades on his own Facebook page. He was born from the imagination of Alabama folk artist Tres Taylor and he embodies all the aspects of monastic life that so enthrall Tres.
For the show enCHANTment, Tres constructed a 16 square foot chapel in our central gallery for William to reside in during his stay in Sanford.
Visitors to the opening reception were invited to write a prayer on painted rice paper to tie to a bouquet of white helium filled balloons. At the close of the evening, the balloons were sent aloft, like prayers ascending skyward.
Hurry in to see the illuminated chapel and the 28' mural representing the Hours of the Day. It's a remarkable installation!
Anticipating the arrival of Tres and Lillis Taylor on Jan. 23
January 11th, 2013
Something special will be happening here in the week leading up to the opening reception for enCHANTment on January 25. The sounds of construction will ring out as Tres Taylor and his helpers build a 16 square foot chapel inside the central gallery!
Once the walls are up, the chapel will be covered with paintings of golden monks and illuminated from the inside out. Visitors will be able to sit inside on a pew and contemplate their wishes and desires for the world in the new year and leave a written message for display.
On Saturday, Jan. 26 from 12:00 - 2:00pm we are inviting the public to attend a "Come Together." Help us create a stained glass window of painted rice paper that will remain in the front window through the course of the show. You can drop in any time and add to our community art project.
During the day, Lillis will be revving up her sewing machine to do some hands on demonstrations with her textile designs inspired by her father's artwork.
We are looking forward to an enriching, inspiring weekend event!
Friday, January 25 Sanford Art Walk and Opening Reception for enCHANTment, 6 -9pm
Saturday, January 26 "A Come Together" community art project, 12:00 - 2:00pm
