artifacts January-April 2021
COLLEGE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
DIRECTOR'S LETTER Jason Steuber, Appleton Director
Happy New Year! 2021 is the 21st year of the 21st century. Your Appleton Museum of Art team is very thankful to all our members for staying connected with us throughout 2020 by renewing and upgrading memberships. We enjoyed our highest online engagement numbers as well as a record year of collaborative partnerships with community organizations and Marion County schools. You will notice our look has changed a bit as we have a new logo and a new website kicking off the beginning of the year. Our team is also grateful to our College of Central Florida president, Dr. Jim Henningsen, for his vision and leadership that kept staff and our visitors safe and healthy. January is a time when we look back and forward. Named after the Roman mythological figure Janus, the first month of the year marks the opening of the renowned traveling exhibition “Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art.” Aptly named, I invite you to visit the Appleton to make new memories and to become inspired. Your membership reminds us of the importance of showcasing meaningful engagements throughout the year. Let’s start the new year together again at the Appleton! Respectfully,
Jason Steuber
FOR THE WIN
Appleton Receives Mobile App Award
As technology continues to play a vital role in the museum field, we were honored to recently receive the 2020 Southeastern Museums Conference Gold Award within the Application category of the Technology Competition. The annual competition recognizes excellence in the use of technology among southeastern museums and celebrates the accomplishments of their work. Within the competition, the free Appleton App was peer-reviewed by specialized digital media and technology professionals drawn from museums across the southeastern United States. The Southeastern Museums Conference award organizers applauded how the winning Gold designation reflected the Appleton’s creative, accessible and dynamic approach to freely delivering digital learning in the museum field. The app’s development was made possible by a donation from the late Mary Brent Kraus. She was committed to ensuring art and education were accessible to all. Originally created to highlight the museum’s most wellknown artworks, the app has evolved into a creative hub in which users of all ages can also enjoy instructional art-making videos and partake in online crossword and jigsaw puzzles based on the world-class permanent collection. By doing so, the Appleton team has expanded the accessibility of the museum’s artwork while increasing user-driven educational efforts. The app, and the many free learning opportunities found while using it, reflect our mission to “inspire, challenge and engage present and future generations through our wide range of collections.”
Download our free mobile app and share it with family and friends to enjoy the regularly updated content and educational features.
January 30-March 28
MEMORIES & INSPIRATION THE KERRY AND C. BETTY DAVIS COLLECTION OF AFRICAN AMERICAN ART Beginning January 30, the Appleton will present a selection of 62 works amassed over 35 years by an ordinary working class couple. Often choosing artworks over material items and other creature comforts, Kerry, a retired mailman, and Betty, a former television news producer, have opted instead to live with drawings, paintings, prints and sculpture as their principal luxuries. Their collection includes works by Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, Ernest T. Crichlow, Sam Gilliam, Loïs Mailou Jones, Jacob Lawrence, Gordon Parks and Alma Thomas, but Kerry and Betty do not search exclusively for well-known and/or documented artists. Rather, they focus on “the importance of gathering and preserving a spectrum of approaches to the black image in order to console the psyche and contribute to a more authentic articulation of the self.” The result is an eclectic gathering of works crossing different mediums, subjects, and styles by a group of artists of the African Diaspora who — in terms of training, experience and expression — are strikingly diverse but unified in their use of cultural and historical narratives. As their collection has grown, so has their storehouse of memories of discovering new works of art, building friendships with artists, and conversing with museum professionals and other collectors in their home. The Davises have also continued to expose their collection to family, friends and church members who, while receptive to the fine arts, are unlikely to visit such local institutions as the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, prompting the artist Leon Nathaniel Hicks to refer to their residence as a museum in a home. “Memories and Inspiration” brings together an awe-inspiring selection of works, but it is their personal resonance — their connection to the Davises’ hopes, passions and everyday lives — that gives the collection its unique power.
Online Talk with Kerry Davis and Kevin Sipp Sunday, February 28, 2 p.m. on Zoom Join us online for a talk by collector Kerry Davis, whose collection presents nearly 100 years of art. He will be accompanied by artist and curator Kevin Sipp. This free talk can be accessed by going to Zoom.us and using the login information below. Meeting ID: 935 9471 8618 | Passcode: 471041
“Memories and Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art” was organized and toured by International Arts & Artists, Washington, D.C. Radcliffe Bailey, “Untitled,” 2004, Mixed Media. Photograph by Gregory Staley. © 2018 Radcliffe Bailey. Courtesy of the artist and Jack Shainman Gallery, New York.
January 9-June 27
LUMINOUS WORLDS PAINTINGS BY KRISTIN HERZOG Kristin Herzog’s large abstract canvases allow the viewer to enter into distant worlds of the artist’s making. Luminous and beguiling, the works occasionally evoke the interstellar, at other times the terrestrial world. Originally from Massachusetts, Herzog is now based in Naples, Florida. After a career as one of the few female civil engineering draftsmen at the time, Herzog moved to New York City to begin training as a publication designer at the School of Visual Arts, and later became design director for Phi Delta Kappan Magazine. She has taught at Indiana University and the University of Florida, is represented in the Art in Embassies program and participated in international exhibitions.
Online Artist Talk Thursday, April 15, 7 p.m. See opposite page for details.
May 1-October 31
ALISON SAAR WORKS FROM THE PERMANENT COLLECTION Later this spring you can look forward to visiting an exhibition of printed works from our permanent collection by internationally acclaimed artist Alison Saar. Incorporating both spiritual and political themes in her artmaking process, the Los Angeles artist describes her work as “refined savagery.” Not one to shy away from difficult subjects, Saar commonly explores topics such as race, historical biases and gender, challenging viewers in exciting ways. Born in 1956 to noted sculptor Betye Saar and Richard Saar, an art conservator, Alison Saar was exposed to art from both a philosophical and hands-on approach from an early age. Earning degrees from both Scripps College and the Otis Art Institute, the artist has shown worldwide and received recognition from the Smithsonian Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago, the Whitney Museum in New York, and many more.
Alison Saar (American, b. 1956), “Breach,” 2017, Woodcut on vintage linen seed sack, 42 × 20 in. Museum purchase in honor of Director Cindi Morrison.
Third Thursday of Each Month
ARTIST’S OUTLOOK VIRTUAL SERIES Join us on Zoom for this series of online artist talks. Curator of Exhibitions, Patricia Tomlinson, will lead a discussion with each artist about their inspirations, processes and history behind their work. Featured artists have work included in the permanent collection or have upcoming exhibitions at the museum. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to learn about art directly from the artists themselves!
Upcoming Artist Talks January 21, 7 p.m. Mark Messersmith Painter known for his symbolic, colorful statements on Florida’s natural environment. February 18, 7 p.m. Anthony Ackrill Painter whose work “The Reaper,” a visitor favorite, is included in the Appleton’s permanent collection. March 25, 7 p.m. Christopher Still Painter of Florida’s wildlife, people and landscapes. April 15, 7 p.m. Kristin Herzog Painter whose colorful work ranges from non-representational to abstract, often with a landscape or vegetative reference. May 20, 7 p.m. Matthew Bennett and Aneesha Rhodes Figure painter with his muse for the “Primary Color” painting. June 17, 7 p.m. Maggie Taylor Digital artist who creates surrealist landscapes by using photographic collages.
Right from top: Mark Messersmith (American, b. 1955), “Southernaire 2,” 2001, Oil on canvas with carved wood pediment and mixed media predella, 65 x 77 in. Gift of the artist. Kristin Herzog, “Enchanted Forest II,” 2019, Acrylic painting on gallery-wrapped canvas with painted edges, 36 x 36 x 1.5 in.
EDUCATION NEWS Free Workshops for Adults
ART 101 ONLINE From January-May, join us on the second Tuesday of the month at 11 a.m. for a free, virtual adaptation of our popular Art 101 workshops. Materials needed for each class will be published a month in advance, so you can follow along as we create amazing art. Pre-registration required via Eventbrite; visit AppletonMuseum.org for more information.
Tuesdays, 7 p.m.
VIRTUAL BOOK CLUB
Second Tuesday of the Month, 11 a.m. January 19 February 9 March 9 April 13 May 11
Winter Birch Tree Acrylic Painting Valentine’s Dish Acrylic Pour Painting Ceramic Flower Vase Georgia O’Keeffe’s Poppy
EDUCATION ART SHOWS
Announcing our new Appleton Book Club that meets once a month on Zoom to discuss works of nonfiction that have been hand selected by Appleton staff. Led by Museum Educator Hollis Mutch, the book club is open to everyone.
“Elements of Art” January 11-February 7
Participation is easy! Take a look at the titles and meeting dates below, read the book at your own pace, and join us online for a thoughtful discussion. We ask that you register for each Appleton Book Club meeting via Eventbrite (search Appleton Book Club); Zoom meeting log in details will be sent in the email confirmation. Information can also be found at AppletonMuseum.org.
“Young in Art” March 22-April 25
“License Plate Tag Art” January 19-February 15
“Superintendent’s Art Show” March 22-April 25
Upcoming Books and Meetings January 19 February 16 March 16 April 20
“Strapless: John Singer Sargent and the Fall of Madame X,” by Deborah Davis “The Brilliant History of Color in Art,” by Victoria Finlay “The Painter’s Chair: George Washington and the Making of American Art,” by Hugh Howard “Now I Sit Me Down: From Klismos to Plastic Chair: A Natural History,” by Witold Rybczynski
Marion County fifth-grade students submit license plate tag art for the “Marion County Tax Collector Kids Tag Art” program, annually displayed at the Appleton. This program inspires fifth-grade art students to design their own specialty plate while learning about the practical application of license plate art and how Florida’s 100+ specialty license plates support worthy causes.
Online Events
Upcoming Events February 28, 6:30 p.m. April 25, 6:30 p.m. Participation is easy and free. Just pre-register at Eventbrite.com by searching Appleton Store @ Home. You can also find the events with participation instructions and links on the events calendar at AppletonMuseum.org, or in the Events section of our Facebook page.
Valid 1/1-1/31/21
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In-Store and Online
SPECIAL SAVINGS Planning to do some shopping? Don’t forget to clip these monthly coupons. And remember, Appleton members always receive a 10% discount on purchases online or in the Appleton Store. Use code MEMBER10 when shopping online. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates on events and sales. If you’d like to tag us in your photos and be featured on our social media, be sure to use the hashtag #appletonstore! We would love to see you enjoying your recent purchases.
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Visitor Services staff are close by on the phones to take your orders. Save on shipping by requesting to pick up your purchases from the Appleton at no charge.
entire purchase of $25 or more.
Valid 3/1-3/31/21
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$
5 off
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APR
Thank you to everyone who attended our fall Appleton Store @ Home events! We had so much fun that we’ve scheduled more events over the coming months. If you haven’t had a chance to join in yet, these free online events take you on a virtual shopping trip led by Appleton Store Manager Gigi Gonzalez. She shares some new and favorite items from the store and even takes special requests if there are items you have been thinking about purchasing from past visits and want to learn more. Bonus: there are big discounts on items featured during the events. This includes jewelry, books, gifts and more.
JAN
THE APPLETON STORE $ 5 off APPLETON STORE @ HOME
Valid 4/1-4/30/21
One use per visit. Not valid during Appleton Store @ Home events. Sales tax may apply. Please use code HOPPIN5 for online purchases.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Pumpkins, pumpkins, pumpkins!
We jumped right into fall with our second annual “My Pumpkin and Me� photo contest. This year, we received a generous donation of 500 pumpkins from Jared Williams Farms that we distributed to several local community groups and schools. Recipients included College Park Elementary and Hillcrest School, as well as Boys & Girls Club of Marion County, PACE Center for Girls and Transitions Life Center. Pumpkins were used for holiday projects and some submitted to our photo contest. Appleton staff member Vanessa Scott (left) delivered pumpkins to Rosa Paz (middle) and Caron Reid (right) at College Park Elementary.
PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS Held over several weeks in October, the “My Pumpkin and Me” photo contest collected photos of community members of all ages with their carved or painted pumpkins. The contest had two winners – one determined by most Facebook likes and one selected by our guest juror, Susan Peters, who is a longtime Appleton member, docent and Advisory Council member.
Submitted by Mindy Goade, this photo was selected by juror Susan Peters. On selecting this photo Peters said, “This year saw a great variety of entries. I chose Mindy’s because the photo has a simple, uncluttered composition and a pleasing color scheme. The smiling girl with the smiling pumpkin draws the viewer into the scene.”
Receiving the most Facebook likes, 197 total, this Harry Potter themed pumpkin was submitted by Breanne (Bre) Torino.
COLLEGE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala, FL 34470-5001 352-291-4455 | AppletonMuseum.org Follow Appleton Museum
On the cover: Sedrick Huckaby, “She Wore Her Family’s Quilt,” 2015, Oil on canvas. Photograph by Gregory Staley.
This issue of Artifacts is made possible by the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs.
The college will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, gender, pregnancy, age, marital status, national origin, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status or disability status in its employment practices or in the admission and treatment of students. Recognizing that sexual harassment constitutes discrimination on the basis of gender and violates this policy statement, the college will not tolerate such conduct. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Dr. Mary Ann Begley, Equity Officer, Ocala Campus, Building 3, Room 117H, 3001 S.W. College Road, 352-291-4410, or Equity@cf.edu.
THANK YOU To Our Members
Thank you to our members for your ongoing support. If you are thinking about renewing your membership, we are offering an amazing promotion on Groupon for 50% off Individual and Family/Dual memberships. If you have recently renewed, Appleton memberships make a great gift for any age and occasion. As you know, Appleton members receive unlimited free admission as well as discounts on art classes, special events and in the Appleton Store. Appleton members also receive free admission to more than 75 other museums as part of the Southeastern Reciprocal Membership Program. To take advantage of this offer, visit Groupon.com and search “Appleton Museum.” We also want to give a special thank you to our Director’s Circle members. Your memberships, and all Appleton memberships, directly support our exhibitions, education and outreach programs, classroom resources for educators, and so much more. To join, renew or upgrade your membership, visit AppletonMuseum.org or contact Colleen Harper, harperc@cf.edu, 352-291-4455, ext. 1831.
Director’s Circle New, Upgraded and Renewed: August 1–November 30, 2020 Fine Arts for Ocala Inc. Dr. and Mrs. Rangaswamy Asokan Ms. JoAnn Baker Mr. and Mrs. William A. Griffiths
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hilzen Mr. and Mrs. David Keitz Ms. Susan Livoti Mr. and Mrs. Joseph H. Nemmers
Mr. and Mrs. Norman Reid Mrs. Amy S. Rowell Ms. Sharon and Mr. Richard Statucki