The Rickie Report invites you to attend two exhibits at the Lighthouse ArtCenter in Tequesta that you will want to take advantage of.  Palm Beach County and Martin County have a large number of artists.  Many belong to different associations so that they can network with each other and learn from each other.  The Lighthouse ArtCenter offers “Art By Association”, where you will see mediums and slices of life explored in a variety of ways.  In addition, you can take a closer look at the artwork of Josh Banks.

New to the formal art scene, Josh Banks has been expressing himself through vibrant abstract paintings since 2005.  The 24 year old young man diagnosed with autism at age 2 does not speak.  He discovered the use of arts as a means to communicate when his mother packed some markers to channel his energy during a hurricane evacuation.

Josh showing his painting

On the surface, these works, like Josh are full of energy and movement.

Josh's Colorful and Bright Palette

Behind the scenes there is a continual motion as his insatiable desire requires constant replacement of drawing tools with new color palletes.

In addition to John Bank’s work, you are invited to meet the artists from the Art Association of Jupiter, Wellington Art Society, North County Art Association, Martin County Art Association, and the Lighthouse ArtCenter.  Their combined exhibit impresses with the depth and breadth of their work.

Best of Show by Ann Lawtey "By the Shore"

Each Association juried their own members.  When the show was hung, a panel of jurors  then awarded Best of Show (Ann Lawtey of NorthCounty Art Association), First (Barbara Bailey of Lighthouse ArtCenter), Second (Roy Stevens of Martin County), Third (Kathryn Morlock of Wellington Art Society), and Fourth Place (Barbara Carswell of North County Art Association) as well as five Honorable Mentions (Manon Sandler of Lighthouse Art Center; Bill Jones of Artists Association of Jupiter; Suzanne Tood of North County Art Association; Liny May of Wellinton Art Society; and Sharon Ferina of Martin County).

Barbara Bailey's Cantilever

On Thursday July 19 from 5:30 – 7:30, the artists will be sharing their missions, how they assist and enhance the arts experience for all and how people can become involved.  There will be a question and answer period along with light refreshments.

Two Women by Roy Stevens

This is the moment to meet local artists, many of whom teach.  See their work and consider if it is time for you to try a new medium or work more diligently in one you have already tried.