Art Presence Art Center is already making plans for member exhibits and guest artists in 2021. Look for virtual tours of all the exhibits in the new year, compensating for our inability to have receptions to celebrate the artists.

The City of Jacksonville has again supported us with a three-year lease. This enables us to take our vision and turn it into exciting art installations. We are grateful for their confidence in us, as our “presence” in this city is among the unique features that draw people here—history, wineries, music and Art.

This is our 8th year in the old County Jail and, despite difficulties due to the pandemic, we continue to successfully woo folks into our fine art and craft gallery. Please visit and let us give you a tour of our new Loft, with studio spaces for artists who need a place to create. We look forward to seeing you.

~Anne Brooke, Director, Art Presence Art Center

Our annual October Imaginarium exhibition opened Friday, September 18 and continues through Sunday, November 1. This year’s theme is, “Light Up the Dark,” an illuminating display of fun and out-of-the-mainstream art featuring unique paintings, 3D assemblages, sculpture, textile art, ceramics, lamps, woodworking, and glasswork from over 26 talented local artists. Visitors can expect to be enthralled by the many one-of-a-kind, thought-provoking, and whimsical pieces in this exhibit. It’s a show you don’t want to miss!

We’ve added two weeks to give viewers more time to enjoy this popular show. Due to COVID-19 safety issues we will not host an opening reception this year. And a quick reminder: the gallery is again closed on Thursdays through the Fall/Winter season. Our current hours are 11:00am-5:00pm every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Call to Artists!—It’s time to submit your angels for jurying in the 8th-Annual Angels Show! The deadline is November 25. Please come to the gallery or visit our website, https://art-presence.org, to review this year’s dates and details and pick up or download an application. Contact Anne Brooke at 541-941-7057 or anne@brookewatercolor.com with your questions.

Artists, check out the well-appointed studio spaces available in our new Loft. Affordable rent with no lease; water is available and you will have your own key. Call Anne Brooke at 541-941-7057 today and make an appointment to see the space!

Featured image: “Out of Order,” by Kim Sterling