Three colorful exhibits opened at the Center for the Arts June 3rd. Visitors can expect to see vibrant acrylic paintings of varying styles from three local artists.
In the main gallery, Christence Taylor will debut her exhibition, “Life and Lemons.” While Taylor has previously had solo shows, this is her first exhibition at the Center for the Arts.
“I can’t even describe how much it means to have my own show at the Arts Center,” stated Taylor. “The Center of the Arts has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember but I never imagined I’d be preparing for a solo show here.”
Christence began to express her creativity through artwork as a child, with the support and encouragement of her grandmother. “She was always willing to support anything creative I wanted to try,” stated Taylor. Her work is recognizable with a colorful charm that is inspired by situations and experiences in life, much like her mural on the Harrison Avenue welcome wall, “Life and Lemons.”
“After we had the chance to work with Christence through the Bay Arts mural project,” stated Jayson Kretzer, executive director of Bay Arts Alliance, “We jumped at the chance to host her exhibition that continues to explore her ‘Life and Lemons’ theme.”
In the Mary Ola Miller gallery, Terry Knight will be displaying his work inspired by how he sees the “interconnectedness of all things.” Terry creates acrylic paintings full of energy by using bright colors and sacred geometry. He also credits his attention to detail to working as a scientist in the field of geology for so many years.
“Whether it is a painting of a bear, a turtle, or a human,” Terry stated, “the symbols (in the paintings) will often repeat themselves, representing life and our connection to the creator of the universe. I want the viewer to feel that connection and get lost in the painting like I do.”
Shiloh Murrell, a Panama City native who got his start creating art as a child drawing characters from the Sonic the Hedgehog series, will be showcasing a collection of his most recent works during his first solo show in the cafe gallery.
As a skateboarder, Murrell finds inspiration from other artists who skate such as Keith Haring and Leon Karrsen, similarly leaning into a distinctively silly and creative style.
These exhibitions will be on display Friday, June 3, until Saturday, June 25. An opening reception will be held Friday, June 3, from 5-7pm. Admission is free for this event, complimentary wine and light refreshments will be provided.
The Center for the Arts is open and free to the public Tuesday – Saturday.
