First Coast Cultural Center (FCCC) will host an opening reception for the Best of JAM (Juried Art Member) exhibition from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, at 6000B Sawgrass Village Circle in Ponte Vedra. The exhibition features three award-winning artists in the areas of two-dimensional and three-dimensional art and photography.
It is sponsored by Robert Franskousky of LPL Financial/Private Wealth and has a suggested $5 admission.
“These artists invite us to see familiar subjects in remarkable new ways,” according to Silvia Romero, FCCC’s executive director. “Together, their work celebrates the passage of time and the creative connections that carry across generations.”
Ponte Vedra Beach resident Helen Curran’s oil paintings bridge the gap between classical technique and contemporary expression.
“Art is my form of meditation and joy. I am inspired by the memories and dreams that guide what I paint,” says Curran, who sometimes incorporates fabric and embroidery. Her JAM exhibition includes vibrant pieces from two different series, showing expression through luminous color, dramatic light and shadow, and tactile detail. “I’m fascinated by human nature and experiences that spark joy and aim to evoke the same in others,” she adds.
Jacksonville artist Michael Cenci is a lifelong woodworker who transforms driftwood and other local woods found in the wild into one-of-a-kind pieces, often incorporating alligator skin and exotic veneers.
“Every piece of wood is different, even when it comes from the same log,” Cenci said. “Cutting it open is like opening an Easter egg; you never know what the prize inside will look like.”
This complements his works in wildlife photography, and his materials are often gathered where the images were captured.
Heidy Weaver’s photography exhibition, “All Her Daughters,” reflects the way she and her three daughters share a love of beauty in nature. Weaver inherited an interest in photography from her mother and worked as a photographer, darkroom technician and writer for high school, college and suburban newspapers.
“This exhibit shows how our passion is passed down through generations,” she says. “We constantly share our life experiences through photos on weekly texts, and I’ve collected some favorites.”
The JAM exhibition runs through Jan. 2, and these works will be on display, along with items from many other artisans, during FCCC’s annual Holiday Shoppes market Nov. 13-15. This community favorite offers local, national and international goods, including handmade wood carvings, accessories, jewelry, sweets and clothing. There are a few spots still open for vendors in the areas of ceramics and glasswork.
