With 100 years of history in the books – or on the canvas – the St. Augustine Art Association (STAAA) is celebrating its centennial with an art show spanning the century.
“Reflections” explores the storied history of the association by featuring works from past and present artists. One of the longest operating art associations in the nation, it was founded in 1924 and comprised of members, some who helped change the course of art in the nation. These artists were forward thinkers who saw the importance of incorporating diversity into the organization.
The exhibit will be hosted at the St. Augustine Art Association, 22 Marine St., St. Augustine, and online at staaa.org from May 3 through June 2.
“When I look at the artwork in our permanent collection and at the art we have on our walls today, it’s obvious that St. Augustine is, or rather has been for a long time, a wellspring for creative talent,” said Jennifer Flynt, executive director. “I am always shocked, and at this point I shouldn’t be, by the quality and diversity of the artwork that comes through the gallery each month. The artists here in St. Augustine were once called ‘The Lost Colony,’ and I think it’s time that notion of St. Augustine’s art being lost or forgotten gets changed. We’re pleased to host this exhibit that showcases some of these past artists and reflects on the quality and depth we have today.”
The exhibit will feature contemporary works alongside historic pieces from the association’s permanent collection. These include images by photographer F. Victor Rahner, who was a charter member of the association’s 1924 original group and pioneer in color photography; Elizabeth Warren, who produced beautiful etchings, but was known professionally as E.B. Warren, to disguise her gender; and her husband, Tod Lindenmuth, who was moved to capture the landscapes and beaches of Northeast Florida; and an artist and patron to Flagler College, JoAnn Crisp-Ellert.
These are just a few of the pivotal figures in the association’s long history. Artists of all ages, skill levels and backgrounds participate in association exhibits, revealing the depth of creativity and talent in Northeast Florida.
For the information and exhibit updates, go to staaa.org/event/reflections-2.
