The highly-anticipated plein air exhibition, “St. Augustine: Where Art Meets History,” opens Friday, May 4, at the St. Augustine Art Association. The juried exhibit features an array of stunning works by the 70 artists who participated in the recent 2nd Annual St. Augustine Plein Air Paint Out.
From April 22 – 30, artists were scattered throughout St. Augustine, off the beaten path in gardens, courtyards, alleys, and public and private settings capturing the unique beauty of the nation’s oldest city. Over 140 works-in-progress were held in the “Wet Room” for the public to view during the event. “The exuberance of the artists comes through in all of the paintings,” said Sarah Bansemer, co-host of the PBS “Painting and Travel Series,” who lives in St. Augustine and visited the gallery.
The award-winning plein air artists will be announced at 7pm during the First Friday Art Walk Opening Reception, followed by a musical performance by First Coast Opera—“Opera Ole.” The event is free and open to the public.
In addition to the plein air display, a Tribute Exhibition for the late Jean Wagner Troemel will be showcased in the Marguerita Phillips Gallery. It includes pieces from local and regional art collectors, the St. Augustine Art Association permanent collection and the private collection of the artist. Troemel, who died in January, was an iconic artist, advocate, and philanthropist in the local community. She would have celebrated her 97th birthday on May 4, the opening of her exhibit.
For information, call the Art Association at (904) 824-2310 or go to www.staaa.org.