Public Invited To Marvin S. Cone 37th Annual High School Juried Art Show Reception And Awards Ceremony On Thursday, May 4, 2023. Exhibit Available April 25-June 3, 2023.

The Marvin S. Cone Annual High School Juried Art Show honors its founder’s enthusiasm for young people and the arts.  Inspired by the creativity of art students in Martin County, he transformed an annual high school art exhibit into an event that brings the entire community together. The Arts Council of Martin County invites the public to the Court House Cultural Center Gallery on May 4 to meet the artists and view the exhibit.  The Exhibit opens April 25th – June 3rd.  A unique component of the High School Juried Art show is the awarding of Purchase Awards presented by the Superintendent, school principals, and local government entities and non-profits.  Purchase awards often represent the first sale of art that the emerging student artists can claim in what may inspire a future career choice.  The Rickie Report shares the details and look at last year’s top award winner.

 

 

Court House Cultural Center

80 E Ocean Blvd      Stuart, FL 34994

772-287-6676       martinarts.org

Gallery Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10 am – 4 pm,   Saturdays  11 am – 2 pm

 

 

P  R  E  S  E  N  T  S :

 

 

 

 

Marvin S. Cone  37th  Annual  High  School

Juried  Art  Show

 

 

 

Awards   Reception   &   Meet   The   Artists

 Thursday, May  4, 2023

5:30 – 7  pm

 

 

A donation of $5 in support of our exhibitions and programs is appreciated.

 

 

 

Exhibit   Open   April 25 – June 3, 2023

 

 

 

Student artworks are exhibited in the professional gallery of the Court House Cultural Center and, just like the professional juried shows, artworks are selected by experienced judges for ribbons and cash awards in several mediums. Student artworks are selected by their teachers at South Fork, Martin County, and Jensen Beach High Schools, The Pine School and Clark Advanced Learning Center and then are displayed in our galleries for the community to enjoy.

 

 

 

 

Best of Show “Emergence” by Sophie Araque Liu MCHS

 

 

 

The impact of this show on the student’s future is immeasurable. For some it’s the first time their work has been framed and exhibited, and for others, it is the spark of their life’s work. Since its humble beginnings in 1987, we have impacted more than 1,500 students.

 

 

 

During the awards reception, Thursday, May 4, 5:30PM, notables from across the community present their “purchase awards” along with the presentation of the judges’ awards by category (painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, among others). Judges include Renae Barton and William Chiodo. The evening celebration gathers the who’s who in arts education across the community and truly celebrates the accomplishments of our young visual artists. 

 

 

 

Sponsorships for the exhibition are available and are used to enhance artist awards and framing for the artwork. Your generosity ensures the legacy that the unique educational experience we offer to aspiring young artists continues and thrives.

 

 

 

The Arts Council is the designated local arts agency for Martin County and provides services to visual and performing artists, arts organizations, students and the public. It strives to instill a passion for- and participation in – the arts.

For more information:

Call 772-287-6676

or

Visit MartinArts.org

 

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

Rickie@therickiereport.com   561-537-0291

17019 SW Sapri Way   Port St. Lucie, FL 34986volunteers

 

 

 

 

Art Associates Of Martin County Announce Special Art Exhibit On Saturday, April 22 Offering Original Art And Featuring A Caricature Artist

Art Associates of Martin County announce a Free Art Exhibit and Sale featuring members’ original artworks plus a special guest caricature artist on Saturday, April 22, 2023.  Courtyard 740, located near Casa Guiseppe’s Italian Grill in Stuart FL. is the perfect setting for this family friendly event.  The Rickie Report shares the details here and reminds artists that membership in this group is open!

 

 

 

Art   Associates   of   Martin   County   (AAMC)

 

 

 

 

P R E S E N T S:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AAMC’s mission is to encourage creativity in the arts for our members, local students and artists in our community by sharing and learning. AAMC has been promoting excellence in the arts for over 50+ years and is one of the largest associations in the area.

The Art Associates of Martin County (AAMC) is a non-profit welcoming group of artists sharing a strong common interest in the arts. Each month (October thru April, with a luncheon in May) members are treated to exciting meetings with demonstrations by well known local artists, opportunities to bring in art surrounding a common theme, and good conversation.  

 

 

 

AAMC meetings are held at St Mary’s in Stuart the 3rd Monday of October thru April from 1:00 to 3:00.

Each meeting includes exciting, interactive demonstrations by very well known local artists.

Members also bring in artwork with a common theme and vote on the Artist Of The Month!

Each meeting always brings surprises.

 

A Plein Air group often takes to the field for great adventures in painting. The AAMC also provides scholarships and art supplies to local schools as we endeavor to participate in the vibrant Treasure Coast art community.  AAMC provides for an Annual Art Show open to all members, with many awards provided.

 

 

 

 

 

For more information about this event, monthly meetings, offering a demonstration, or becoming a member:

 

Website: https://www.artassociatesmartinco.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtAssociatesOfMartinCounty/

Or Call Dale Forbes: 978.872.7995

 

 

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

Rickie@therickiereport.com   561-537-0291

17019 SW Sapri Way   Port St. Lucie, FL 34986

 

 

 

 

 

World Renowned Textile Artist Jeanette Kuvin Oren Creates Cover For Historic Holocaust Orphan Torah To Be Dedicated On Saturday, April 15 At Temple Beth El Israel In Port St. Lucie. Community Is Invited To Ceremonial March And Dedication Service

When Temple Beth El Israel (TBEI) welcomes MST860, a Holocaust orphan Torah scroll on Saturday, April 15, 2023, the surviving scroll will be covered with specially commissioned textile art work by world renowned artist, Jeanette Kuvin Oren. Oren is well known internationally for her Judaica fabric work and also designed the 2022 Hanukkah postage stamp for the U.S. Postal Service. The ceremonial march and dedication service will focus on the significance of this historic Torah, the Holocaust, and the troubling rise in antisemitism in America.  The event, held during Holocaust Remembrance Week, is open to the public. The Rickie Report shares the details and some images.

 

 

 

Artwork by Susan Estrella

 

 

 

Saturday, April 15, 2023

 

 

 

Ceremonial  March   10  am

Seacoast Bank parking lot, 1100 St. Lucie West Blvd 

 

 

 

Dedication  Service   10:30 am

 

Temple  Beth El Israel  551 SW Bethany Drive 

 

 

 

 

Beginning with a ceremonial walk down St. Lucie West Blvd and SW Bethany Drive in Port St. Lucie, community and leaders will help Temple Beth El Israel (TBEI) welcome a historic Torah, written in the 19th century and a survivor of the Holocaust. Rabbi Bruce Benson will lead the march, joined by local clergy members of all faiths and denominations as well as members of the community.  A program and memorial service will follow at TBEI focusing on the significance of this historic Torah, the Holocaust, and the troubling rise in antisemitism in America.  The event, held during Holocaust Remembrance Week, is open to the public. 

 

 

 

 

MST860 is opened to the passage of the Ten Commandments 

 

 

This Torah, a sacred scroll that includes the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, is one of some 1500 that were seized by the Nazis in Czechoslovakia even as they were destroying the synagogues that housed them and decimating the communities that prayed using them.  Chillingly, the Nazis planned to display these seized Torahs and other Jewish ritual objects in a “Museum of an Extinct Race.”  After the war, the Torahs sat, mostly forgotten, in a warehouse outside Prague.  They were acquired in 1964 by the Memorial Scrolls Trust (MST) with the intention of repairing them and placing them in synagogues around the world.

 

 

 

 

 

MST860 Holocaust Torah held by Rabbi Bruce Benson; Cover by Jeanette Kuvin Oren

 

 

 

As MST860 arrived with no cover, TBEI commissioned world renowned textile artist, Jeanette Kuvin Oren, to clothe the scroll with proper respect and dignity.  The Hebrew words, “Shamor” (Guard) and “Zachor” (Remember) signify the message inherent in this scroll’s legacy. Oren used various yellow fabrics to indicate the yellow star that Jews were required to wear during Nazi occupation, separating them from the rest of the community.  The barbed wire testifies to the death camps where they were murdered.  Oren is known for her Judaica artistry and was most recently chosen as the artist of the 2022 Hanukkah postage stamp for the U.S. Postal Service.

 

 

Hanukkah Stamp created by Jeanette Kuvin Oren for the U.S. Postal Service, 2022

 

 

 

 

The Torah coming to TBEI, officially designated “MST860,” is considered an orphan because no information exists about its original home synagogue — except that it was located in either Bohemia or Moravia, regions now part of the Czech Republic where there were large Jewish populations before World War II.  Most Jews in those areas were deported to and murdered in Nazi concentration camps. By “adopting” the Holocaust Torah, TBEI is accepting its responsibility “to preserve, protect and teach the message of tolerance that MST860 embodies.” The scroll will be housed in a special display case so it can be shared with all who enter the Temple; it will be taken out periodically to be read during special services and educational events.

 

 

 

For more information please visit Templebethelisrael.org

Or call:  772.336.2424

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

Rickie@therickiereport.com   561-537-0291

17019 SW Sapri Way   Port St. Lucie, FL 34986

 

 

Mallo Bisset’s 70th Birthday And Red Barn Furniture’s 35th Anniversary Celebrations Share Love Of Felines, Art And Giving Back To The Community On Sunday, April 23 In Downtown Stuart

Mallo Bisset celebrates her 70th birthday and the Red Barn Furniture’s 35th anniversary by sharing her love of animals with “Mallo’s Birthday Bash” on Sunday, April 23 at the Court House Cultural Center Gallery and Gazebo Park in downtown Stuart. All Sales will benefit Caring Fields Felines. While the event is free, if you donate $100 or more to the charity before April 15, you’ll be considered a VIP , enjoy a special reception and thank you gift.  The Rickie Report shares the details and some sneak peeks!

 

 

 

 

SUNDAY, April 23, 2023

  Public Reception     4 – 7 pm

 

 

VIP Reception 3 – 4  pm   for donors of $100+ 

 

 

DONATE     NOW:

(Click Donate button and select Bisset Birthday Bash)

 

 

 

Courthouse Cultural Center and Gazebo Park

 80 SE Ocean Drive   Stuart, FL

 

 

 

 

Mallo Bisset,  Artist, Philanthropist, Feline Champion

 

 

Mallo tells The Rickie Report, “For my birthday this year, I’m asking for donations to Caring Fields Felines. I’ve chosen this nonprofit because their mission means a lot to me, and I hope you’ll consider contributing as a way to celebrate with me. Every little bit will help me reach my goal”.

 

 

 

 

Mallo is also celebrating her store, Red Barn Furniture’s 35th Anniversary.  It is clear why she has been awarded the mARTies Award for leadership in 2018 and the Sage Award for Arts and Culture in Martin County for the Council on Aging.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mallo’s friends and fellow artists have created over 60 cat forms which will be available in the Silent Auction and Raffle.  Felines forms in handmade jewelry and specialty boxes round out the gift possibilities for you or any cat lover you know!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mallo Bisset might have taken the long road to living her dream, but once she sets her mind on something, there’s nothing stopping her!As a little girl living on the Åland Islands in the Finnish archipelago, she wasn’t too fond of school, and told everyone “I am going to be an artist when I grow up”.Life got in the way for a while, but after years of hard work and building a successful business, it wasn’t until 2007 with encouragement from her husband and daughter that Mallo finally took the time to do what she had always dreamed of doing.It started with a weekly drawing class at the local Adult Education program.After just two semesters her teacher, Helen Terry, told her she could make money drawing pet portraits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mallo’s earliest work combined her love of animals with her love for the arts.Having tried drawing, pastels, and watercolors, it was time for oils! She signed up for classes at a studio which was located across the street from her own business, so she could be close to work, yet make it easy to get to class every week.

 

 

 

 

 

This is where her love affair with oils and the palette knife began.Under the tutelage of Georgia Abood at Alizarin Crimson, she has been working on her craft and has made remarkable progress in such a short time.Having grown up on an island, and living in Florida for 30 years, with a second home in the Bahamas, it’s not a surprise that Mallo Bisset’s work often features the water and always celebrates the beauty of nature. As it turns out, that little girl in Finland really did grow up to be an artist!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To Reduce The Number Of Homeless Cats In Our Community Through Spay & Neuter Programs For Homeless And Owned Cats, To Adopt Cats Into Permanent Homes, To Provide Education To The Public On Cat-Related Matters And To Provide For The Well Being Of Our Sanctuary Cats.

 

 

cffelines.org

 

Facebook takes care of the donation processing with no fees:

 

 

 

513 SE Monterey Rd.   Stuart, Florida 34994

772-287-1833

 

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

Rickie@therickiereport.com   561-537-0291

17019 SW Sapri Way   Port St. Lucie, FL 34986

New Studio For Visual Arts And Artists Of Palm Beach County Offer Two Exhibits With One Special Reception And Art Auction On Friday, April 14, 2023. Featured Artists Are Valerie Perreault, Edward H. Muñoz, Mary Jane Zapp, David Burbank, and Dennis P. Léon

The New Studio for the Visual Arts and Artists Of Palm Beach County celebrate two amazing art exhibitions at one Free Public Reception on Friday, April 14.  “Water Stories: A Spring Exhibit” features Edward H. Muñoz and his photographer friends, Mary Jane Zapp, David Burbank, and Dennis P. Léon.  The Live Auction during the Reception will raise funds for youth art education.  Artist Valerie Perreault’s tropical art series ” Island Déjà Vu” will also be showcased.   The Rickie Report shares some dramatic images and urges you to mark your calendars!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Live Auction during reception at  6  pm  

to benefit youth art education

 

 

 

Water Stories: A Spring Exhibit runs April 10 – May 31, 2023

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

F E A T U R E D     A R T I S T S:

 

 

Edward H. Muñoz

 

“Shelter From the Storm” by  Edward H. Muñoz

 

 

Edward (Ed) Muñoz is a photographer specializing in Nature and Travel. His interest in photography, inherited from his father, intensified as his career allowed him to travel all over the world, experiencing different cultures and visiting stunning locales and magnificent sights. From the Great Wall of China to the tea houses of Kyoto, to the history of old Europe Ed came to be inspired by the diversity and beauty of our planet.

 

 

Ed is a member and past president of the Artists of Palm Beach County, and a resident artist at the New Studio for the Visual Arts in Jupiter, FL. His work has been featured in Elan magazine of Virginia and recognized with awards in various competitions in Texas, Virginia, and Florida. The most recent being first place in the 2021 Grassy Waters photo contest of Palm Beach County. His work hangs in several business locations including a wall size triptych at a local bank lobby.

 

 

Ed lives in Palm Beach Gardens with his wife Susan and has four children and eight grandchildren. He credits his family for their support and for being the inner light that inspires his photography. His hope is that his work will move people to better appreciate and preserve the beauty of our planet.  Recent exhibits have featured the challenges of the Monarch butterflies, and the melting ice in Antarctica. 

 

 

 

 

Mary Jane Zapp

 

 

“Flamingo Wings” by Mary Jane Zapp

 

 

Mary Jane participated in the documentary film, “Voices Beyond the Wall”, about the orphan poets of Honduras. She also took the photos for a book of poetry written by the same students, “Counting Time Like People Count Stars”. The celebrated book and film gained worldwide attention and remain available on Amazon.

 

 

In addition to numerous solo shows, Mary Jane has won several awards for her photographs. Her work has been published in print worldwide. She has been a featured artist in several fundraisers for cancer treatment centers, 12 step programs, and other charities.

 

 

David Durbak

 

 

 

“Hillsborough River” by David Durbak

 

 

A romantic visualist, David preserves on film and interprets in print, that environmental landscape oft overlooked and neglected, seeing the present as if it were already the past. David has been in the business of creating art since he was 16 years old, as a jazz pianist, arranger, and composer, performing with many well-known jazz musicians.

 

 

 

In the 1980’s, he switched to the visual arts as a commercial advertising photographer, creating award-winning photography and film productions for local, regional, national and international clients.  While earning an M.F.A. from the Academy of Art in San Francisco, CA, he started exploring the fine art realm, experimenting with unique, one-of-a-kind alternative wet-lab photographic processes, with his work exhibited in galleries ranging from South Florida to the Peoples Republic of China.

 

 

Dennis P. Leon

 

 

 

 

“Firefly” by Dennis P.Leon

 

 

 

Once a professional photographer, then professional no more … now a Photography Lover dedicated to share and educate. Dennis tells The Rickie Report, “I took interest in photography in Barcelona, Spain by helping a well-known fashion and advertising photographer. Seeing the magic of shooting a picture and then developing the image, it took me on the search for my new career. I studied in The Hague, Netherland at the MTS voor Fotografie en Fototechniek. I worked in Amsterdam in a large studio specializing in food and tabletop photography. I moved to Caracas, Venezuela where I opened my own studio. I collaborated with large advertising agencies and industrial projects. I took a Sabbatical and moved to the USA, where I spent several years on a photography hiatus. I became engaged again with the art of photography, and now I am transmitting my passion for this art to others. I describe my style as “Disorganized Eclectic”, but nowadays I am moving towards Minimalism”.

 

Valerie Perreault

 

 

 

From “Island Déjà Vu” Series by Valerie Perreault

 

 

Experience the sensation of being transported to a familiar yet otherworldly place with “Island Déjà Vu” the latest exhibit by Valerie Perreault. Perreault’s intricate mixed media pieces blend elements of nature and imagination to create an ethereal island landscape that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Each piece is a unique journey through a dreamlike world that invites viewers to linger and contemplate. Don’t miss your chance to explore this captivating exhibit!

 

 

 

 

New Studio for the Visual Arts

   and

  Artists of Palm Beach County

1615 Cypress Drive    Jupiter, Florida

Sponsoring 501c3 organizations

 

 

 

For more information about these classes, workshops, or events:  www.thenewstudiova.net

561.295.5712

 

 

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

The Rickie Report

Rickie@therickiereport.com

561-537-0291  

17019 SW Sapri Way  Port St. Lucie, FL 34986

 

 

 

 

National Association Of Women Artists Florida Chapter Presents “Boundless: The Spirit Of The Female Artist” At Levis JCC With Free Reception Sunday, April 16

National Association Of Women Artists (NAWA)- Florida Chapter Presents “Boundless: The Spirit Of The Female Artist” At Levis JCC in Boca Raton, FL. This collection of visual stories and interpretations features fifty-six artworks of abstraction, expressionism, figurative and scenic genres by thirty-one artists.  The public is invited to the Free Opening Reception on Sunday, April 16, 2023.  The exhibit continues through May 19.  The Rickie Report shares the details and some sneak peeks.

 

 

 NATIONAL    ASSOCIATION   OF   WOMEN

ARTISTS

FLORIDA CHAPTER

 

 

PRESENTS

 

 

 

“BOUNDLESS:

THE   SPIRIT   OF   THE   FEMALE   ARTIST “

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening  Reception   &   Awards  presentation

Sunday, April 16, 2023

1   –  3   pm

Free Exhibit and Reception are open to the public 

 

 

At

Levis JCC  Judi & Allan Schuman Museum Gallery

21050 95th Avenue South   Boca Raton, FL 33428

 

Gallery Hours: 

Weekdays  9  am – 4 pm  

 

 

 

The show runs through May 19th, 2023

For more information: https://levisjcc.org/culture/art 

Or call 561-558-2504 or 561-558-2520

 

 

“Brass Ring” by Randy Globus

 

 

The National Association of Women Artists – Florida Chapter is proud to present “Boundless”, a collection of visual stories and interpretations, at the Levis JCC Judi & Allan Schuman Museum Gallery at the Sandler Center in Boca Raton. Fifty-six pieces of 2 dimensional and 3 dimensional art by thirty-one NAWAFL chapter artists will be on exhibit. The works include abstraction, expressionism, figurative and scenic genres.

 

 

 

“Goddess Bound” by Nancy Neidich

 

 

 

“BOUNDLESS” echoes the spirit of the Female Artist. And NAWAFL encompasses that spirit! Established in 1889, The National Association of Women Artists (NAWA), was the first women’s fine art organization in our country. It was founded by six women in Manhattan. Frustrated by the lack of opportunities for women in the Arts, they created their own exhibits throughout New York City. Artists were accepted into the organization through a vigorous juried portfolio review to insure the highest level of talent and professionalism. And this allowed NAWA to expand to include some of the most famous and notable female artists in our country. Members included Mary Cassatt, and Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney.

 

 

“Fantasia” by Fran Mann Goodman

 

 

 

NAWAFL was established in 1995. Members are juried after portfolio and peer review. The purpose is to provide exhibition opportunities in galleries for its members, along with networking and support for the next generation of female artists through scholarships and other resources. This need to give gallery visibility to female artists is important due to gender inequality.

 

 

 

“Dance of the Circles” by Nance Nadel

 

 

 

The large disconnect between gender opportunity in today’s art world continues… even though 70% of bachelor of fine arts and 65–75% of master of fine arts degrees art female (thanks to our activist female artists who came before and fought to be allowed to learn alongside male students….), 46% of working artists in the US (across all arts disciplines) are women. And less than 15% of female artists are exhibited in major museums.

 

 

 

“Weaving Your Own Destiny” by Roberta Millman-Ide

 

 

 

“There’s still an important need for women to not just fill curatorial positions in museums and galleries, but to use their position to educate patrons to overcome a millennium of gender bias against Women Artists…by opening the doors for these artists and their art collections.”, said past president and current NAWAFL Palm Beach Exhibitor Coordinator, Roberta Millman-Ide. “It is only then that we can finally put an end to art history’s ‘boys club’ that has been limiting opportunities for Women in Art. Until then, there will always be a need to find exhibition opportunities for the many talented female artists…giving them more visibility and recognition which they so greatly deserve.”

 

MEET  THE  ARTISTS:

 

Jane Baldridge,  Patrice Boyes,  Amalia Brujis,  Judith Carlin,  Janice Charles,

Katherine Coakley,  Carin Doben,  Karen Fletcher Braverman,  Randy Globus,

Janet Gold,  Fran Mann Goodman,  Erica Hart,  Helene Kleiner,

Annette Margulies,  Barbara Mastrangelo,  Avrel Menkes,   Jane McIntyre,

Roberta Millman-Ide,  Nance Nadel,  Nancy Neidich, Anabel Rub Peicher,

Nadine Saitlin,  Beth Scher,  Margaret Schnebly Hodge,  Ann Schwartz,

Penny Seldin,  Eileen Shaloum,  Jill Sneidman,  Patricia Turner,

Betty Usdan-Zwickler, Sara Zigdon

 

 

 

To learn more about NAWAFL:https://www.nawafl.org/.

 

 

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

Rickie@therickiereport.com   561-537-0291

17019 SW Sapri Way   Port St. Lucie, FL 34986

What Do Art Patrons See And How Do They React At Art Shows. Patrick McCallister Shares His Experience As An Art Patron. April Is Autism Awareness Month

World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) is observed every year in April.  Patrick McCallister shares some of his insights when he attended an art show in Deland, FL to raise public awareness of autism. The Rickie Report includes some helpful points which enhance not only the experience for the art lover, but increase sales for the artists. WAAD highlights the need to help and improve the quality of life of those with autism so that they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society.

 

 

 

 

 

If you’ve met one person with autism,

you’ve met one person with autism.

– Dr. Stephen Shore   www.autismspeaks.org

 

 

 

April   is   Autism   Awareness   Month

Awareness and Acceptance Are Good For Artists

 

 

 

 

“Sell  them  on  their  fan  fiction”

By Patrick McCallister

 

 

 

The artist sold me within 60 seconds!

I didn’t know what I would buy, but within about 60 seconds I knew I was leaving the recent DeLand Outdoor Art Festival with something in my hand, because I met Richard Franklin.  I’m going to commit heresy and say I’m not an art buyer. (Well, I don’t think of myself as an art buyer.  I’m a middle-aged comic book reader, so that probably technically makes me an art buyer). In the last seven years I’ve been to three art shows only because my sister-in-law was exhibiting at them, and I had friends who wanted to go. I’ve purchased at two. So, what did the sellers do that got me — an arts “scrooge” — to buy?

 

 

I’ve previously talked in “The Rickie Report” about how George Tortorelli, of Medicine Wind Music, seemed to by intuition or background recognize my autism and how he took steps to accommodate me at a Daytona Beach Arts Fest. That was a few years back. Tortorelli didn’t let my visible nervousness about the nearby crowd shake him at all. He ended up getting me behind his table, away from people, as I looked at his wares. I still love the primitive flute I got from him. I’ll buy from him again alla breve.

 

 

Oh, and April’s Autism Awareness Month, so I urge folks to look up that article for a few tips about selling to autistic folks.

https://www.therickiereport.com/2020/04/02/patrick-mccallister-shares-insights-and-suggestions-for-artists-art-show-producers-and-the-public-april-is-autism-awareness-month/ 

 

 

Today I’m talking about Richard Franklin, of Richard Franklin Fine Arts and our interaction at the most recent DeLand Outdoor Art Festival. He instantly sold me on him, and as a result I bought his art. Here’s how he did it.

 

 

When my friend Kathy and I rounded the walkway and I saw into his tent, two adorable girls in front of a rustic American flag were smiling at me. It looked like a page in a graphic novel. I wanted to know their story. I stepped away from Kathy without a word — I’m still autistic — to get a better look. Fortunately, Kathy’s understanding about my spectrum quirks, and she went on figuring I’d catch up.

 

 

Franklin seems to get that the two girls, “United,” is a universally appealing piece. He proverbially framed that painting in his tent for maximum visibility. When I got into his tent, I couldn’t help but to look around. I felt like I was standing in a graphic novel. Franklin gave me a bit. Then he introduced himself.

The first words out of my mouth were something along the lines of, “Do you do comic books?”   In hindsight, I realize that was an unfiltered remark that could have been insulting to some artists. Franklin seemed to recognize that graphic novels and comic books are my art interest.  “No,” he replied. Paraphrasing here, he continued, “That’s not something I’ve done. You think I should?”

What Franklin did in a few words was to tell me he respected my art preferred art medium — comic books — and got me talking about his art in my interest. He kept the conversation there — how his art falls into my interest in graphic novels and comic books.

 

  • Franklin asked sincere questions.

  • None seemed forced or manipulative.

  • It was a natural conversation, and he was willing to imagine his art in a medium other than the one he’s chosen for the purposes of talking to me.

 

 

At no point did Franklin need to make a close on me. I’m the one who brought up purchasing options. And, I’ve been looking at his website considering others to buy.  www.richardfranklinfinearts.com

 

 

 

Artists, listen for and get into your lookers’ interests in your art. How do they see it? What does it evoke for them? Your art is your story, but everyone who looks at it inwardly writes their fan fiction. That’s what they’re buying, so sell it to them.         

 

 

To raise Autism Awareness, we must first become informed.  The aim of sharing this is to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism, foster worldwide support and inspire a kinder, more inclusive world.

Patrick conveys, “There’s a moral to this whole story. Awareness, acceptance, adaption, and accommodation = art sales”.

 

He adds,”It’s difficult to summarize autism, which is why “spectrum” was added to the diagnostic terminology — autism spectrum disorder. Autism is a developmental condition usually typified by weakened social drives, which often shows as social awkwardness. This is most often accompanied by other manifestations such as delayed, underdeveloped verbal communication, sensory problems, often aversion to sounds, and others, such as repeated gestures referred to as “stimming.” Some recoil from calling autism a “disorder,” and prefer terms such as “neurodiversity.” In diagnostic terms, “disorder” simply means someone’s learning or mental processing is different from norms.  

 

Some people with autism live and work autonomously with varying levels of support. Others can’t. Patrick tells us, “What makes a huge difference between an autistic adult being able to live and work independently, or needing lifelong care, is the presence or lack of an aware, accepting and accommodating society”.

 

Readers cannot take Patrick’s narrative and use it as a template for identifying other autists. He shares, ” Yes, ‘autist’ is a dictionary word for someone with autism.  If you’ve met one autist …you’ve met one autist!  There are some general clues you are talking with an autist, for example when the person seems bothered by sounds or movements. They may have a tendency to look away while speaking or have a tendency to articulate a specialized knowledge without apparent regard to social norms”.

 

Our take-away from this?

 

Fortunately it doesn’t take specialized knowledge to converse with those with autism. Watch and listen to people and follow their cues. This works for everything from affective disorders, such as depression, to anxiety disorders and mental-heath conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder. You’ll meet people with all of these and many more, when displaying art. Throw “weird” out of your thinking and replace it with “uncommon” and let those ‘less common’ customers lead you to how to interact with, and sell to, them.

 

 

Patrick reminds us, “We love and want art, too”.

 

Patrick McCallister is a longtime journalist who was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome in 1993. Like a lot of people with developmental differences, he hid the diagnosis for years. Today he advocates for people with disabilities in various areas, but especially transportation.

 

 

For more information:

 

In 1970, the Autism Society launched an ongoing nationwide effort to promote autism awareness and assure that all affected by autism are able to achieve the highest quality of life possible.  In 1972, the Autism Society launched the first annual National Autistic Children’s week, which evolved into National Autism Awareness Month (NAAM). This April, we continue our efforts to spread awareness, promote acceptance, and ignite change.

The Autism Society of America, the nation’s oldest leading grassroots autism organization, is is proud to celebrate National Autism Awareness Month  in April 2020 with the its new “Celebrate Differences” campaign. Designed to build a better awareness of the signs, symptoms, and realities of autism, #CelebrateDifferences focuses on providing information and resources for  communities to be more aware of autism, promote acceptance, and be more inclusive in everyday life.

The Autism Society recognizes that the prevalence of autism in the United States has risen from 1 in 125 children in 2010 to 1 in 59 in 2020 – recognizing this continued increase, the goal for NAAM is to further increase awareness about autism signs, symptoms and opportunities through: information and referrals, events, printable and digital resources, and community partnerships with businesses and organizations dedicated to building inclusive experiences.

The Autism Society has a variety of resources designed to inform and encourage communities to celebrate differences, and become more inclusive of individuals with autism. The campaign will overlap with World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd, and continue throughout the month. These resources will be made available on social media for sharing as well as on www.autismawarenessmonth.org for download.

 

 

Being a part of a community and feeling included is extremely important in people’s lives. Being part of a community doesn’t mean that it has to be necessarily one’s neighborhood/geographic community. People can experience and explore different communities by traveling and/or taking vacations. People can meet new people and try new things when they go to various camps or retreats. Some may find community among a religious belief they share with others.

 

There are many communities in which people can be a part of such as work and/or social communities which are centered on leisure activities or hobbies. But being a part of any of these communities does not mean simply that the individual is present. To have true community inclusion, the individual needs to be participating and accepted by the other individuals. Becoming a part of any community takes time and effort. Individuals will have to learn practices of the community and have to get accustomed to new things and people. Similarly, the members of the community will have to learn and get accustomed with the new member. Community inclusion is not always a fast process, especially when it causes people to get out of their comfort zone. But with proper supports and effort, community inclusion is extremely rewarding and life-altering.  www.autism-society.org

 

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

Rickie@therickiereport.com   561-537-0291

17019 SW Sapri Way   Port St. Lucie, FL 34986

Wellington Art Society Features Renowned Photographer, Barry Seidman At April 12 Meeting Plus Two Art Exhibits With One Reception On April 18 Public Invited To All Events

The Wellington Art Society will feature a presentation by renowned photographer Barry Seidman on Wednesday, April 12, 2023.  The meeting and presentation will take place at the Wellington Community Center. The event includes a meet and greet, a member spotlight, a brief meeting and Barry’s presentation, “From There to Here” in which he will discuss his life’s work and the transition from commercial to fine art photography. In addition, mark your calendars for a double art exhibit “ Variations” and “Vivid ”. Open now at the Wellington Village Hall and at the Wellington Community Center, there will be a Public Reception on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.  The Rickie Report shares the details and some sneak peeks. The public is welcome!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Public Is Invited To

 

Wellington Art Society Meeting

 

Wednesday,  April 12, 2023

 

5:30 pm

 

 

 

Wellington  Community  Center

 

 

 

12150 Forest Hill Blvd.   Wellington, FL

 

 

 

PRESENTING:

 

 

 

 

B A R R Y        S E I D M A N

 

 

 

 

Open to members and non-members

 

 

 

For more information contact: Laura Jaffe, presidentofwas@gmail.com

 

 COVID-19 protocols will be observed. 

 

 

 

Originally from New York, Barry Seidman is a renowned member of the international photographic community. He was educated at Pratt Institute in New York and has established himself as one of the top advertising print media photographers in the country. He specialized in still-life photography and worked for top major brands in the world, eventually expanding his work to include celebrity photography and directing television commercials.

 

 

“Calla Lilies” by Barry Seidman

 

 

 

 

He has contributed to numerous award-winning national and local advertising campaigns. Recognition for his work includes every possible industry award including Clios, Tellys, Addys and the Art Directors Club Award.

 

 

“Tomatoes” by Barry Seidman

 

 

After a distinguished career in advertising, Seidman started to devote more of his time to fine art photography, using his vast techniques and knowledge of lighting and design as a foundation. This led to various solo and group exhibitions, all while still connected to the advertising business. 

 

 

“Tulip” by Barry Seidman

 

 

 

 

Seventeen years ago, Seidman, and long-time business partner and wife, Mary Ann Kurasz, relocated to Palm Beach Gardens, Florida where he built a studio to focus on his fine art work. He also maintains a studio presence in New York where he continues to shoot for advertising clients. Seidman has exhibited in solo, and group shows both in New York City and Florida. In 2012, Seidman published a photobiography titled New Eyes, a spectacular collection of his fine-art photography. Beginning in April, his work will be on display at the Palm Beach International Airport at their “Journeys” exhibition. His work is held in many public and private collections worldwide.

To learn more about Barry Seidman, visit: https://barry2130.wixsite.com/seidman-2.

 

 

 

Wellington   Art   Society

 

 

Announces   New   Exhibitions

 

 

 

 

 

Free and open to the public weekdays  8 am  to 5  pm

                      

See,  Learn,  Share , Engage  and  Be  Inspired! 

         Invite  family,  friends,  and  patrons  –   Share  the  Invitation

 

 

 

 

PUBLIC      RECEPTION 

 

TUESDAY, April 18, 2023

 

 

 

 5 – 7 pm

 

 

 

 

The Wellington Art Society (WAS) is thrilled to announce their new municipal art exhibitions, “Variations” ( now through July 18, 2023 at the Wellington Village Hall located at 12300 Forest Hill Blvd in Wellington) and “Vivid” (now through May 16 at the Wellington Community Center at 12150 Forest Hill Blvd, Wellington). 

 

MEET    THE    ARTISTS

Hartley Barnes                                 

Betty Brodie                                                

David Ciofalo                                      

Ayesha DeLorenzo                      

Kim Di Giacomo                                   

Faye Ford                                           

Jay Harmon                                               

Carol Krenkel                                        

Laura Jaffe                       

Lou Ann LaBohn

Nancy Lee

Maureen May

Rose Gong Monier

Susan Mosely

Charles Moses

Ana Noble

Susan Oakes

Leslie Pfeiffer

Monica Postell

Marion Roberts

Debra Rosen

Lois Spatz

Carl Stoveland

Cindi Taylor

Raymonde Talleyrand

Tammy Wolfson

 

 

All artwork in the exhibition is for sale and a portion of the proceeds goes toward WAS Scholarship and Outreach Programs. To arrange the purchase of artwork hanging in the exhibition, please email presidentofwas@gmail.com.

 

 

 

 

For more information about the featured artists and the exhibition, please visit the Wellington Art Society’s website at www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

The Wellington Art Society is a non-profit charitable organization in its 41st year. It is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and regional artists to display their artwork in local galleries, interact with other artists and serve the community through their art. For further information about the Wellington Art Society, please visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org

 

 

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

Rickie@therickiereport.com   561-537-0291

17019 SW Sapri Way   Port St. Lucie, FL 34986

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buy Your Tickets Now For 17th Biennial Broward Quilt Expo’s Awards Ceremony Friday, April 14 And Get A Preview Of The Show. Buy General Admission Tickets For Quilt Show Saturday, April 15 And Sunday, April 16.

Judging is complete and all of the winners have been notified that their quilt has won “something” at the 17th Biennial Broward Quilt Expo (BQE). Now its time for YOU to reserve a spot at the Friday, April 14 Awards Ceremony and get a special preview!  Reserve your tickets for Saturday, April 15 and Sunday, April 16, when over 260 quilts will be displayed, activities include a basketwalk, raffles, 20+ vendors and 2 demo areas!  Tickets can be purchased at the door and there is Free Parking at the Charles F. Dodge Arena in Pembroke Pines. Eight Quilt Guilds combine their efforts to bring this to our area! Volunteers are needed during the show daysThe Rickie Report shares the details but no sneak peeks of the winners! 

 

 

 

 

 

SHOW     HOURS:

SATURDAY –   SUNDAY     10 am – 6 pm

 

 

 

Charles F. Dodge City Center

601 City Center Way    Pembroke Pines, FL 33025

 

954.392.9480

Located near Sawgrass Expressway, Florida Turnpike, and I95

 

 

Tickets are $10 for one day; $12 at the Door

   Purchase a 2 Day ticket for $20

  • Save $2 and purchase your tickets on-line – $10 for one day and $20 for 2 day

  • Your ticket will be at the on call desk at admissions – no physical ticket will be issued

  • Tickets purchase at the venue are $12 each day

View more than 260 quilts from around the South Florida area and many entries from out of state. Quilt displays include both Juried and Exhibit only quilts. Traditional, Modern and Art Quilts are on Display.

 

Group Rates are available (please email Chairman@browardquiltexpo.com)

All Sales are Final

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Awards   Ceremony   

Friday- April 14

 

 

 

 7 – 9 pm

 Charles F Dodge City Center

$15.00  Includes one drink (wine, soda, water, tea, coffee)

Cash bar for additional beverages.

Enjoy a private 1 hour showing of the Quilt Show.

 

 

Register here

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New in 2023  Expanded Demonstration Area

 

 

 

 

 

Vendors as of publication time:

 

Martelli’s; Tops – Brother Machine Demo; June Colburn;

Elevate MD; Boozecruiser Planners; Kate Mitchell;

Kianga Art; Once Upon a Quilt

 

We will offer 2 areas on the show floor, with longer demos time slots Vendors that offer demos see a significant increase in booth sales.

Book early and get your choice of time slots.
Larger Booth 10″ x 10″

 

 

Promotions of demos starting one month prior of event leading up to show days.

 

 

Shopping is always a large part of the BQE experience, and we know you will want to join us for what is shaping up to be a landmark show for us! Vendor booths filled up fast in 2021 and we are expecting more demand for 2023.

Secure your spot or get more information call or email us today: Linda Esposito Vendors@browardquiltexpo.com   954-648-1921

 

 

 

VOLUNTEER

 

 

The Broward Quilt Expo is 100% volunteer quilt show of 8 sister guilds in the South Florida region. With over 200 quilts on display, awards ceremony, vendor booth, basket walk, charity raffles and 2 demonstration areas.

 

 

 

 

 

Volunteer for the show. It takes many hands to make it happen, Teenagers are welcome (with parents) to earn volunteer hours.

Volunteers needed for set-up, quilt collection, judging, admissions, white glove, basket walk and general help.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New Studio For Visual Arts Presents “Water Stories: A Spring Exhibit” Featuring Edward H. Muñoz, Mary Jane Zapp, David Burbank , Dennis P. Léon To Support Summer Youth Art Education

The New Studio for the Visual Arts and Artists of Palm Beach County team up to make exhibiting and selling artwork a “win-win-win” for the gallery, artists, and deserving youngsters in need of summer art education classes.  “Water Stories: A Spring Exhibit” features Edward H. Muñoz and his photographer friends, Mary Jane Zapp, David Burbank, and Dennis P. Léon.  This exhibit opens on Monday, April 10 and will have a Live Auction during the Reception on Friday, April 14, 2023.  The Rickie Report shares some dramatic images and urges you to mark your calendars!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Crash Landing” by Edward H. Muñoz

 

 

 

 

 

WATER   STORIES:  A   SPRING   EXHIBIT

 

 

FEATURING:

 

 

EDWARD   H.   MUÑOZ

 

AND   HIS   PHOTOGRAPHER   FRIENDS

 

 

MARY JANE ZAPP           DAVID DURBAK           

DENNIS P. LEÓN

 

 

 

 

“Fishermen” by Dennis P.Léon

 

 

 

 

A   FUNDRAISER   FOR   SUMMER   ART  

EDUCATION   FOR   YOUTH

 

 

 

“Practice Makes Perfect” by Edward H. Muñoz

 

 

 

EXHIBIT   OPENS    MONDAY    APRIL 10th

 

 

 

RECEPTION FRIDAY APRIL 14th      5:30 pm

 

 

Live Auction during reception at      6:00pm 

 

 

 

 

“Kissimmee River” by  David Burbank

 

 

Donate to Support art classes for youth this summer!

 

 

 

 

“Beach” by Mary Jane Zapp

 

 

 

 

 

 

New Studio for the Visual Arts

   and

  Artists of Palm Beach County

1615 Cypress Drive

Jupiter, Florida

Sponsoring 501c3 organizations

 

 

 

 

 

 

For more information about these classes, workshops, or events:  www.thenewstudiova.net

561.295.5712

 

 

 

 

For coverage of your events, to place an advertisement, or speak to Rickie about appearing in The Rickie Report, contact:

Rickie Leiter, Publisher

The Rickie Report

Rickie@therickiereport.com

561-537-0291  

17019 SW Sapri Way  Port St. Lucie, FL 34986