State of the Art Presence – February 2025

THE NEW YEAR IS HERE and we’re ringing it in with a burst of creativity. Come see all the exciting new artists and activities we have in store for Jacksonville and Southern Oregon this February at Art Presence!

Guest Artist Group Show: Secret Society of the Missing Fig Leaf—February brings a special show to the gallery… The Secret Society of the Missing Fig Leaf will be unveiling their members’ works during this showing. This group of talented artists explore the beauty of human form through a variety of artistic media. Inspired by live models, the artists interpret the body during quick sketch sessions, following in the tradition of the great European Renaissance masters.Note that these are paintings and drawings of nude figures. The exhibit runs from January 29 through February 25. Join us for the Opening Reception on Saturday, February 1, from 1-4pm, and meet many of the Fig Leaf members and their works.

Member Artist Spotlight: Tom Glassman—International, award-winning photographer Tom Glassman is our Member Artist of the Month in February. Tom’s photography pushes the boundaries of the expected, capturing images that transcend the typical photograph. Through his lens, striking reflections, abstract lines, unexpected juxtapositions, and masterful use of negative space create captivating works of art. Come meet Tom during the February 1 reception.

Messy Hands for All: Cigar Boxes with Lauren Card and Pamela Lund—Transform an ordinary cigar box into a personalized treasure chest with Lauren and Pamela! This fun and creative workshop will guide you in crafting a unique memory box to store your keepsakes and trinkets. Supplies are provided free of charge thanks to a generous grant from the Carpenter Foundation. But you can also bring your own items to include in your own creation: game pieces, spools of thread, door pulls, marbles, drawer knobs, beads, buttons, printed scrapbook papers, musical notes, handwriting, quotes or key words… hopefully you get the idea! The class will be held in our upstairs classroom on February 8, from 1:30-3pm.

Afterschool Art Club—Our Afterschool Art Club is already a success, and it hasn’t even begun. The first section of this after school program has already filled up, but there are still openings in future sections. To sign up, visit our website (art-presence.org) and look under Art Education.

Gift Gallery—Remember to remember Valentine’s Day. Looking for an extra-special gift for your loved one? Stop by our Gift Gallery to find unique jewelry, decor, and small pieces of art that tell your loved one how special they are.

New Regular Hours—Wednesday through Sunday, noon-5pm.

Featured image: “Untitled 3” – Eve Wurtele