As they say, #theshowmustgoon and it did at last night’s Opening of #TheArtofSummerLiving art walk in the district. Perhaps we had our doubts about 3:45, but the drops quit falling and #Tallahassee art lovers braved the puddles in search of a little wine and a lot of really great art.
First stop was Furniture Showcase & Design on Market St. Avoiding the buckets of water falling on her head and art, Pam Talley came early and hung her fine art, displaying it beautifully amidst the fine furnishing & accessories of the design shop. The #stilllife and the coastal scenes showcase the talent of the local artist and illustrator who regularly shows at Signature Gallery and Eye Associates.
Next door at Bedfellows, owner Gina Proctor, her staff and two local artists were enjoying every minute of anticipation with a shop full of art. William Lamb is known for his dedication “to promoting a simple, quality lifestyle at home and outdoors”, and that southern, summer lifestyle show through in his work. His artwork is perfect for Dad on Father’s Day, which btw is this Sunday, June 17th.
Designer and a new girl to the art community, Suzanne Conner is taking #Tallahassee by storm, literally. No matter how damp the weather, no one could dampen her spirits. Three pieces of art sold at her first show, says to me that Suzanne will be in a painting frenzy trying to keep up with demand. Mermaids, summer coastal scenes and flower power ignited those who love the art and artist.
Under the covered walkway at the Gallery Shops, Randy & Debby Breinen huddled with their easels and art til the heavy clouds gave way and WCTV, the local tv station appeared. The team brought a wonderful inventory of fine art and will be on location today at Gidgets!
Upstairs Glasshopper Gifts’ employee and talented photographer Richard Baas shows his love for nature with a blue heron from down on the Wakulla River and a monarch butterfly from St. Marks.
As folks continued to come out, a crowd over at My Favorite Things was having a good time enjoying recipes from MFT blog, a chat with Patty about her art and shopping the giftware. We pulled Lauren away for a moment to grab a picture of her and Mike with artist Patty Maney. Her signature works of art adorned the walls and look fabulous in the space; I wouldn’t be surprised if one stays in that perfect spot at MFT…. or goes home with Lauren.
Next door at Chrysalis Fine Fabrics & Furnishings, Susan Hugunin and her staff of talented designers are always up to something creative, but even more so last night. Local handmade #artisan jewelry, mannequins dressed for summer and incredible, incredible, did I say incredible art from Linda Grady Paintings. Her works are so wonderful, I realized we should have been giving Best of Show ribbons, but how would you choose the best? The local artists are all so talented!
It was no surprise that the Tallahassee Wine Warehouse in the Verandas was busting at the seams. Shop owner Bob Gorman knows his product and offers up a wonderful selection. His long time #Tallahassee clients know that there is an #art to hospitality and customer service – and Bob wins that, hands down!
A short walk over to Simply Entertaining and I discovered Robin Lewis and Sharon Harris entertaining a house full of art lovers and foodies. BTW, this shop is on the must stop here list, just because of Billy’s delicioius cookies, but I have to say Nina Allen Freeman’s artwork is breathtaking. Another SOLD tag encouraged me that that artwalk was amazing. And the space felt somewhat like a holiday party! But of course; it’s what they do – invite, cater & entertain #Tallahassee.
Small towns are wonderful for those of us who LOVE community. The event created a setting to see old friends and have a fun time with the new artists we’ve met. Shop and restaurant owners enjoyed the activity and all is well for another day in the district. Now, the show does go on – all summer long in The Market District. #TheArtofSummerLiving is a wonderful partnership between local business and local artists. Follow us on Pinterest for a glimpse of Opening Night.
The response has already been tremendous, so if you have not been, by all means, you must walk the district, explore the shops, have lunch with a friend and enjoy the art. Follow the blog and Facebook for stops on the art walk and come back often. It’s ever changing.
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