For Immediate Release March 16, 2018
Florida CraftArt presents awards for
LightHeaded: New Directions in Fine Craft Lighting
February 10-March 24, 2018
20 fine craft lighting artists from America, Denmark, Mexico and Tasmania light up Florida CraftArt Florida
CraftArt has announced the award winners for “LightHeaded: New Directions in Fine Craft Lighting” in its exhibition gallery through March 24. Renowned interior designer and recent St. Petersburg resident Keith Bucklew reviewed more than 60 pieces of light art and made the following selections. He awarded St. Petersburg artist Donald Gialanella best of show for “Enlightened Man,” – an astonishing full-sized sculpture of a man whose body is welded from gears, wheels, has bright lights placed where the heart would be. “This piece walks away with the top award for both originality and the intricate work involved in its fabrication,” said Mr. Bucklew.
He awarded first place for “SMASH Artisan Subway Series Lights” by Brooklyn-based artist Liz Bellovin in which she and Beth Costello created a series of miniature, lighted sheet-metal subway cars painted by well-known graffiti artists. Said Mr. Bucklew, I think these subway trains are a delightful and whimsical. I want one! They are quite a collaborative effort.”
Denmark artist Birgit Østergaard won second place for her white, airy lights. The juror feels that they would be a great piece to use in a commercial space if not a contemporary home. Third Place went to Peter Antor from Chicago, Ill. “The light’s architectural aspects are reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work,” stated the juror. Honorable mention was awarded to Colorado-based artist Mary Hoffman whose stainless-steel lamps incorporated themed 35mm color slides. All three of her lamps sold at the opening.
The striking show was curated by Mary Anna Murphy, a museum exhibition designer, and Catherine Woods, a nationally renowned glass and public art artist. “Lightheaded” was made possible by a grant from Duke Energy. Artists from across the globe responded to the call to artists. Ms. Murphy commented, “Denmark artist Birgit Østergaard sent pieces that seem to defy gravity.” The United States is represented by artists from eight states, including Hawaii.
The closing reception is on Saturday, March 24 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. During the exhibition, docent-guided gallery tours are held on Wednesdays at 1:15 p.m. and are free to the public. Florida CraftArt is located at 501 Central Avenue in St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.FloridaCraftArt.org or call (727) 821-7391. Admission is free. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Florida CraftArt is a nonprofit organization founded in 1951 and headquartered in St. Petersburg. Its mission is to grow the statewide creative economy by engaging the community and advancing Florida’s fine craft artists and their work. Fine craft art is presented in its 2,500-square-foot retail gallery and curated exhibitions are featured in its adjacent exhibition gallery. Florida CraftArt is the only statewide organization offering artists a platform to show and sell their work.
CUTLINES: “Enlightened Man” is a steel assemblage by St. Petersburg artist Donald Gialanella. “SMASH Artisan Subway Series Lights” is by Brooklyn artists Liz Bellovin.
Florida CraftArt, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33701
727-821-7391
FloridaCraftArt.org
Contact: Katie Deits, Executive Director
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- “Enlightened Man” is a steel assemblage by St. Petersburg artist Donald Gialanella.
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- “SMASH Artisan Subway Series Lights” is by Brooklyn artists Liz Belloivn and Beth Costello.
