Central Florida Artists Shine at 53rd Lakeland Fine Art Exhibition

Lakeland, Florida, USA - The vibrant pulse of Central Florida’s art scene is on full display as the Lakeland Arts Association hosts its 53rd annual Fine Art Exhibition at Florida Southern College’s Melvin Gallery. This highly anticipated event, which has been celebrating local talent since 1972, showcases a diverse array of artistic expressions, inviting both established artists and eager newcomers to join in the mix. According to Fox 13 News, this year’s exhibition features 117 pieces of art crafted by 83 different artists, drawn from a robust pool of 217 submissions.

Among the remarkable contributions is artist Tony Agnello, who describes his creative process as one of embracing chaos to find clarity. In just 90 minutes, he produced a piece that encapsulates this philosophy, demonstrating the dynamic nature of art creation. Danielle Klonecki is another artist to watch; her work symbolizes the blending of her life with that of her fiancé through a unique combination of materials. The exhibition is further enriched by the collaborative efforts of James and Sally Parziale, a husband and wife team whose sculptures and geometric paintings aim to uplift viewers’ spirits, a sentiment echoed by Sally herself.

Artistry and Acclaim

This year’s exhibition awarded “Best In Show” to professional painter Sienna Sanchez for her captivating piece titled „Daydream.“ Her work skillfully blends traditional and contemporary styles, reflecting the diverse approaches seen throughout the show. Sharon Surrency, the exhibition chair, emphasizes the importance of showcasing talent across varying skill levels—from hobbyists to seasoned professionals—and aims to underscore the role of art in the local community.

As the arts scene flourishes, the Lakeland Arts Association is also looking to the future with excitement. They are launching a joint venture to establish the Depot Arts District, set to open in October 2025. This project, according to information on the Lakeland Arts Association website, will transform a revitalized industrial space into a thriving hub for artists. With features such as 35 affordable studios, expansive galleries, and workshop rooms for classes, the Depot is designed to cultivate creativity and professional development within the community.

A Focus on Community and Growth

The Depot Arts District will also include a garden space for outdoor events and a retail area for artist-made goods, providing a marketplace for local talent. Interestingly, the artist studios will be competitively priced at $500 per month, with utilities included, and available on a month-to-month lease, eliminating long-term commitments. This flexibility is aimed at reducing barriers for emerging artists looking to establish themselves.

Scheduled tours of the Depot are currently underway for small groups, offering a glimpse into the future of this innovative space. The commitment to enriching the local art community is palpable, and with significant milestones ahead, Lakeland is poised to further cement its reputation as a flourishing artistic enclave. As the Fine Art Exhibition unfolds, it is clear that there’s much to look forward to in the world of Central Florida art.