State of the Art Presence – July 2025
SUMMER HAS ARRIVED and historic Jacksonville is buzzing with energy, offering everything from thrilling Britt concerts to charming wine trolley tours and unique downtown shopping experiences. But the real heart of the action? The Art Presence Art Center, where a non-stop celebration of creativity awaits!
Guest Artist: Diana Rasmussen, “Dare to Bloom”—Prepare to be dazzled by “Dare to Bloom,” a stunning two-month guest artist show featuring the extraordinary Diana Rasmussen! Working in fiber arts since childhood, witness how she transforms fabric into powerful expressions of emotion and cultural stories, drawing inspiration from legendary fiber artists. This isn’t just art; it’s a revolution in textiles, a vibrant response to our times, and an invitation to find your own voice and bloom boldly. Exhibition Dates: July 2 to August 31. Meet the Artist: Join us for the Opening Reception, Saturday, July 5, 1-4pm.
Member Painter Extraordinaire: Lauren Card—Meet Lauren Card, our Member Painter Extraordinaire, whose breathtaking watercolor and oil paintings capture the very essence of light and color. For over three decades, Lauren has been weaving magic on canvas, connecting artist, subject, and viewer in a tapestry of beauty.
Messy Hands: Lavender Wands—Dive into making Lavender Wands with Thalia Keple on July 12th. Discover the secrets of crafting enchanting lavender wands, infused with the fragrant spirit of summer, and the weaving technique utilizing ribbons to capture the fragrant buds of the lavender flowers. Additional decorative elements will be provided to add extra sparkle to your wands. When: July 12, 1:30-3:00pm (upstairs classroom). Register: art-presence.org/messy-hands (Education > Messy Hands).
Third Saturday: Simple Jewelry Metalsmithing—Unleash your inner metalsmith at our Third Saturday program. Learn the ropes of this ancient craft and create your own dazzling jewelry with member artist Pamela Lund. This workshop will include demonstrations and hands-on use of tools and materials. $40 per person. When: July 19, noon-4pm
(upstairs classroom). Register: art-presence.org/third-saturdays-at-art-presence (Education > Third Saturdays).
Books of the Month—Explore the captivating Oregon Travel books by Barbara Tricarico, spotlighting the wonders of Oregon and Southern Oregon.
Drop by our Gift Gallery, too!—And don’t forget to browse our Gift Gallery, brimming with inspirational treasures and quirky knick-knacks!
Come join the summer celebration at Art Presence Art Center!
Featured image: “Red Poppy” by Diana Rasmussen