Jax Fuse, a celebration of the creative economy, returned in September for its second year. The three-date event focused on film, fashion, food, music, modeling and art. More than 300 attended.
“We are extremely happy with the turnout and the quality of the festival,” said Gurpreet Misra, programming director. She added that it is evident these kinds of events were needed for the creative economy.
According to Misra, the event received an incredible number of submissions from people working in the various creative categories.
“The quality of the event was uplifted by adding an additional day and giving food its own designated day,” said Misra. “Art and music were added this year and were an incredible success.”
Once again, the venue was the link, an innovative, multifaceted facility in the heart of Nocatee.
Sept. 12 was Food, Art and Music Day. Jax Fuse welcomed 20 food vendors offering a wide variety of light bites. Represented cuisines included Asian, American, Indian, Italian, Mediterranean, Mexican, Caribbean and Latin. Attendees had plentiful opportunities to sample the fare as vendors competed for awards.
The Crowd Favorite award went to TPC Sawgrass, while the Most Flavorful award was given to Fusion Food Truck. Kamaya 86 and Kasama Zushi took home the Most Innovative award, and Anthony’s Catering won Best Dish Overall. Best Presentation went to Bella the Treat Fairy.
Live music was presented throughout the evening.
The featured artist was Susanne Schuenke, whose work can be seen throughout the link. She was joined by 10 other artists who work in a variety of mediums.
“Creative Economy & Culture” talks, focused on the arts and food, were also held.
Sept. 13 was Film Day. Jacksonville-based filmmaker Adam Madrid was the keynote speaker, and attendees came from all around to learn about the local film scene, attend workshops and hear Madrid, founder of Argyle Forest Films.
Workshops were offered by Tery Spataro (Tery Designs and Creations), Dana Maute (creator and executive producer), Alexa Wint (Nicalex Productions) and DJ Remark (director and filmmaker).
Following Madrid’s keynote address, attendees viewed a dozen short films from a variety of genres. As with the Food Day festivities, awards were bestowed on top films of the day.
“Don’t Watch Alone,” a horror film by Lewis Farinella, won Best Film, Best Editing and Most Memorable Line/Scene. It also starred Best Actress winner Ales Johnson.
“The Titanium Tiger,” directed by Alexa Wint, won for Best Makeup, Best Costumes, Best Use of Location and Best Writing. It also starred Best Actor winner Rich Pintello.
“For My Liberation,” a drama by Ella Brooke Withrow, won for Best Cinematography and Best Sound.
“Akashic Spheres,” an adventure film by James Scott, won for Best Special Effects.
“Night Heist,” a comedy by Stephen Franklin, won for Best Ensemble Cast.
Sept. 27 was Fashion Day, emceed by world-renowned eye surgeon Dr. Arun C. Gulani.
Twenty models took to the runway to exhibit designs from some of Northeast Florida’s most talented designers in three categories. A DJ provided the music.
The Giving Closet and Shiloh Levy Designs were enlisted to show fashions for the “Sustainability & Upcycle Segment.” Uniquely Claudia showed effortlessly chic, distinctive pieces, and Lady Strut Gowns exhibited stunning evening wear.
Clelia’s Party Dresses displayed chic party wear, while Nena Cavalieri presented bold, elegant tailoring, and Anderson Couture was brought in to exhibit both men’s and women’s apparel.
Gulani Fashions showed off cutting-edge, innovative luxury fashion.
“We have seen success stories coming out of the festival,” said Misra. Connections were forged among the different disciplines of the festival. On the whole, participants told Misra they received “great exposure” through the event.
Misra said she was enthusiastic about the 2026 event. Submissions will be accepted beginning in July.
