Pensacola Magazine, February 2026

PENSACOLA Note

EDITOR’S NOTE

Kelly Oden Editorial & Creative Director

Note

Obesity, diabetes and heart disease became death sentences for too many people battling Covid. While genetics predispose some to these illnesses, many can be managed or eradicated by lifestyle changes. I’d like to focus on making healthy choices while still enjoying the bad-for-you good stuff in moderation.

I’ve always loved the month of February. It starts with that deceptive chill that makes you wonder if winter will ever end, but by the end of the month, something shifts. The sun becomes brighter and the air becomes a little warmer. You can feel spring lurking just around the corner.

Passion and Joy

you equally— pandemic stress, and things provide had a kitty

first responders and hospital workers? Thank you for putting yourselves on the front lines to keep us as safe as possible. Also, a big shout out to all the teachers out there scrambling to put together online lessons to keep our kids engaged and learning instead of worrying about things they cannot control. We appreciate you!

incredible special-needs pets and their owners and she discovered that while these precious babies may take a little more care, the love they give in return is worth every second.

I don’t know about you, but 2020 offered far too little of either of these to me. I was so consumed with my mom’s illness and then with surviving the grief of her loss and the anxiety of the pandemic and the sorrow of so many national news stories that I took little time for myself. This year, I hope to explore creative and personal endeavors that help me rediscover myself and discover new outlets for personal expression.

If exotic animals are more your thing, head on over to the brand spanking new and significantly enlarged Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. The new location features all the hands-on, up close interaction as the previous location plus added attractions, amenities and experiences that will make for a wonderful family day out.

Procrastination

I know this weather pattern well because my daughter’s birthday falls toward the end of February, and each year I’ve watched the forecast to be sure that parties, trips and birthday fun all happen without a hitch. That same daughter turns 18 this month, which is truly mind blowing. I was promoted to executive editor at Ballinger Publishing just weeks after discovering I was pregnant with her. I remember being so obsessed with doing everything right back then, not realizing that mistakes are part of the journey. I’ve mentioned her countless times in this editor’s letter over the years, and people who have never met her often ask me how she is doing. Humble brag: She’s doing great! She’s a thoughtful, intelligent young woman with a great big heart, a love of science, amazing taste in music and a hilarious sense of humor. Honestly, I could not be more proud. However, it is a little wild to see my baby girl walking and talking like someone who closely resembles a grown up. They say I will get used to it.

Enough of that. I’m not crying.

On that note, I encourage you to read our COVID-19 Resource Guide, which provides resources for food, business, community and more. The ever-changing nature of this crisis necessitates that I mention that these resources may or may not be available to you by the time you read this issue. I hope it will provide a place to start, some ideas or some inspiration either way.

If you’re interested in conservation, check out Dakota Parks story on local Panhandle Rooftop Nesting Biologist, Rebekah Snyder. Through her work with Audubon Florida, Snyder helps to ensure local shorebirds have safe nesting spaces in an increasingly overpopulated region.

You may also notice that we have some nonpandemic related stories in this issue. We made the call to include already planned articles that might still be helpful, relevant or enjoyable for our readers. We hope you find them useful.

While many people made glorious headway on home improvement and personal projects in 2020, I did not. I did not organize anything. I did not fix anything. I did not learn a language or a new skill. Nothing. But that’s ok, too. I’m still here. That’s an accomplishment. However, in 2021, I’d like to lighten my load and empty my house of much of the clutter and unnecessary junk that fills it. It’s time to make room for something new.

All of this, plus a few DIY pet treat recipes and some good news from the Florida legislature regarding protection for pets in abusive situations.

This month’s cover story introduces you to local artists worth watching. Painters, potters and sculptors who are creating inspiring visual art right here in Pensacola. You’ll also meet artists from the Gulf Coast Kiln Walk Society and learn about their upcoming WoodStoke Pottery and Kiln Festival. Plus, we talk with Shannon Pallin and Destyn Patera about how they combined their talents for floristry and filmmaking to make their documentary film project, The Flower. We also explore how performing arts programs like Pensacola Children’s Chorus can shape young lives.

As for us, Pensacola Magazine has been published under one title or another for more than 40 years. We have no plans on changing that. We will continue to publish and to bring you all the information we can for as long as we can. Please reach out to us with story ideas, inspiration or just a quick hello. We are all working from home and we are missing our water cooler conversations.

So, turn off the news, put down your phone and enjoy these heartwarming tales and adorable of photos of local animals and the folks who care for them. When you’re done, give your kitty a little catnip and throw your dog a bone. It’s these simple pleasures that will keep us all sane.

In this issue, we’ve covered all of these topics and more to help readers shift their own focus in 2021. We hope you enjoy. Here’s to your health!

Then there’s Pensacon, the city’s annual celebration of fandom. Comics, cosplay, film, gaming, art and writing: you can find it all at Pensacon. Plus, Karen Wheeler is going to be there! IYKYK.

We hope you enjoy this issue and support your local artists. See you at Pensacon!

Stay safe, stay healthy and stay strong, Pensacola!

The Curious World of Wine

By Hilary Towns

WThe Taste of Community

ine trends move like tides. Some arrive suddenly, crash loudly and disappear just as fast. Others roll in slowly, reshaping the shoreline over time. To drink wine is to participate, often unknowingly, in a global conversation driven by fashion, economics, climate and culture. Yet the wines that truly define a place are rarely the loudest. They are the ones that stay.

Recently, I asked a group of Pensacola wine professionals a deceptively simple question: What is the one wine you most associate with Pensacola? The answers spanned continents and styles, from Oregon to New Zealand, but together they revealed something deeper about how wine trends evolve here, and why Pensacola’s slower pace may be its greatest strength.

Most wine trends are born far from Pensacola. They emerge in the major markets: New York, Los Angeles and London, where media attention, dense distribution networks and constant exposure reward novelty. A sommelier champions an obscure grape. A region goes viral. Suddenly, everyone is drinking the same thing.

But trends don’t move evenly. Geography, climate, distribution and local taste all act as filters. Pensacola sits outside the fast lane of wine fashion. We are not a primary launch market, and we don’t pretend to be. New wines often arrive here later, if they arrive at all, and when they do, they must earn their place.

That delay is often framed as a disadvantage. In practice, it creates its own character. Wine takes longer to catch on in Pensacola for practical reasons. Distribution is narrower. Restaurant buyers tend to be cautious. Retail shelf space is precious. That’s why certain wines, once established, tend to linger.

At Agapi Bistro + Garden, Bianca Silivos points to Left Coast Estate white pinot noir, a wine that quietly challenges expectations. Made from pinot noir grapes but vinified as a white, it carries texture and nuance without heaviness. It’s not a trendy wine in the viral sense, but it resonates deeply in a coastal market where guests want something refreshing that still has presence. It’s the kind of bottle that doesn’t shout for attention, but intrigues with its combination of familiarity and novelty.

For Kevin Stanley of Winebow Fine Wine & Spirits, Pensacola evokes celebration. He cites Tapiz malbec brut rosé, a sparkling rosé from Argentina, and notes its local resonance through the influence of longtime industry figure Richard Liveakos. It’s a reminder that wines often gain traction not through branding, but through people— champions who pour them, recommend them and build trust over time. Stanley also mentions his personal love of

drinking Moschofilero by the sea, a nod to the way coastal settings shape taste as much as trend cycles do. It may not have caught on yet, but I would love to see Kevin’s influence create a craze for Moschofilero on Pensacola Beach.

Crisp, citrusy whites were a dominant thread amongst respondents. Jenna Murphy of The Establishment points to Three Brooms sauvignon blanc. For Darian Morris of Maverick Beverage, Whitehaven sauvignon blanc stands out as a defining Pensacola wine. Both of these examples of New Zealand sauvignon blanc are reliably refreshing counterpoints to the Florida heat. Ashley Lamonte of A Mano Panino & Lamonte Gelato looks instead to Albariño, imagining it as a natural expression of Pensacola’s Spanish influence and coastal identity. Bright, vibrant and lightly saline, it mirrors the city itself: sunlit, approachable and best enjoyed with good company.

Another commonality between answers was big, bold, easy drinking red wines. Despite the climate, heart warming cabernets and red blends never cease to sell. At Global Grill, Tommy Ford associates Pensacola with Austin Hope, a bold California wine that reflects the city’s openness to generosity and conviviality. My personal choice for the wine that I most associate with Pensacola is Marietta Old Vine Red: inexpensive, inevitably delicious and generous, but not sweet. As the smallest wine market in Florida, the Panhandle was the largest market for that wine when I worked for its distributor. Pensacola caught on to its value, and claimed it as their own.

What unites these selections isn’t origin or price, it is the local embrace. These wines didn’t explode onto the scene. They settled in. Many were patiently placed by early distributors, poured by the glass, reordered quietly and recommended again and again. Over time, they became familiar—not boring, but trusted.

That’s the difference between a trend and a staple. Trends demand attention. Staples earn loyalty. Pensacola’s wine scene has evolved, sometimes deliberately, other times by chance. By not succumbing to every passing fashion, the city has built a wine culture rooted in context and shaped by climate, cuisine and community.

In an industry often driven by spectacle, there is something quietly radical about acknowledging the wines that entrenched themselves within a city’s heart. The wines that define Pensacola do so not because they are new, but because they belong. As we continue, new wines find their way in, but not without the influence of the ones that came before.

In the end, that may be the most enduring trend of all.

Following the Flower

By Kelly Oden

For local florist Shannon Pallin, flowers are more than the final, curated composition you see at weddings and important events. She’s spent years thinking about where they come from, how they are grown and the journey they take before arriving at Fiore, her floral studio in downtown Pensacola. Last summer, those questions led Pallin and Pensacola filmmaker Destyn Patera of Lensea Film to Alaska. The result? A documentary called Follow The Flower that traces the peony lifecycle from small family farms through harvesting and processing for their long journey to consumers around the world.

Where did the inspiration for this project come from? Why the peony?

Pallin: When the flowers arrive, I’ve always been curious about their journey. I’ll talk to them and ask how their flight was, how they’re doing and what they need. I know that probably sounds strange, but after a while you learn how to read them. You can see what kind of

conditioning they need so they’ll perform the way they should once they’re out in the world.

At one point in my life, I remember thinking, I need to put a GoPro on a flower. That idea stuck with me. It wasn’t meant to be funny. I genuinely wanted to follow the journey, not just imagine it.

There’s a certain peony variety called a coral charm that I’m especially drawn to because of how it changes. When it arrives, it’s this deep salmon color, then it turns pink

and eventually fades into white as it ages. I’m always watching that process and thinking about how nature works in terms of science, botany or just timing.

Why Alaska?

Pallin: I knew peonies came out of Alaska, but I didn’t really understand how. Someone I know gave me some insight into the Alaska peony farms, and that opened the door. I started doing research and calling farms, explaining what I wanted to do and asking if they’d be open to us coming to film and talk with them.

It all happened quickly. It was impulsive, for sure. I was just like; this is the summer. I’m going to do it. We didn’t meet endlessly or over plan it. Once the farms were open to it, it was go time.

Is Alaska one of the largest peony growers?

Pallin: I don’t know if it’s the largest grower in the world, but in the United States, it’s definitely up there. What surprised me was where the farms were. They’re nestled into foothills, often right in people’s backyards. They live on the farm.

We timed the trip around the peony celebration in Homer, Alaska. I don’t remember exactly how old it is but that was when we decided to go because it felt like the right moment to see everything happening.

What did you find once you got there?

Pallin: When we got there, I realized it was so much bigger than what I had imagined. We’d had a long flight and a long drive, and I remember thinking, I know where we’re going, but I don’t know what’s going to happen.

One of the biggest surprises was that these were working farms. They weren’t just for the enjoyment of the festival. Everything was in bud form. It changed what I thought we were there to film. We learned a lot about conditioning, measuring them, checking them daily for insects and mold. Volunteers and teams of people are out there every single day, checking each flower by hand. It’s a very hands-on process.

Why were they in bud form?

Pallin: Because that’s how they ship. To perform later, they’re cut before they bloom. They’re measuring for a very specific stage: open enough to develop, but tight enough to survive the journey.

There’s a very small window where they have to cut the entire field, get the flowers washed, dried, boxed and sent to the co-op. Once you see that, you realize how fragile the timing is.

Patera: That became an important turning point in the film. It made the story less about the finished product and more

about everything that happens before that moment people usually see.

Destyn, what did you think when Shannon brought you this idea?

Patera: The idea was pretty abstract at first. It felt like something at a much bigger scale than what was realistic, especially financially. But what stood out was that Shannon was genuinely curious. She wasn’t coming in trying to prove a point. She was exploring.

We work mostly in the commercial space, and documentaries are different. They’re expensive, and a lot of times you don’t really know what you’re making when you start.

Pallin: I didn’t have a lot of thoughts going in. I just knew where we were going. Destyn asked a lot of important questions, and he’s so good at what he does that he knew which ones to ask. In the beginning, I didn’t have many answers. By the end, I had more, but it really was a process of finding them along the way.

What stood out to you about the farms themselves?

Pallin: The scale. These aren’t big commercial operations. Everything is very walkable. And yet the amount of care that goes into it is intense.

They’re checking for insects and mold daily. Every stem is measured. Once they reach a certain stage, they’re cut, washed, dried, stored and shipped. It made me understand so much more about what happens before a flower ever reaches a florist.

Patera: That repetition really stood out to me. It’s easy to romanticize farming, but what we saw was very methodical. Very exacting. And very human.

Where did you see yourself in that chain?

Pallin: I see myself as the curator or the protector. The farmers put the product into the world, and it’s my job to bring it into the consumer space, into art and into people’s everyday lives.

There’s the art of nature that the farmer grows, and then there’s the art of

composition. One doesn’t happen without the other. Seeing that connection so clearly was really powerful for me.

Patera: Once we understood that, it helped the film find its shape. Shannon wasn’t just observing the process, she was part of it.

Did seeing the process change how you think about value?

Pallin: Completely. People don’t always understand why flowers cost what they do. Florals don’t always have a high perceived value.

But shipping is expensive. Flowers are perishable. Temperature, timing, packing, all of it matters. And especially for small towns like ours, where we’re often the last stop on a shipping route, those costs add up.

When you see the farmers and the amount of labor involved, it makes sense.

How was it being on camera yourself?

Pallin: Harder than I expected. I was very hard on myself in the beginning. I’m used to working behind the scenes.

Nohing was scripted. There’s a moment in the film where I’m really honest. Destyn kept reminding me that vulnerability is what you want in these kinds of films. You don’t have to have

all the answers. Watching myself learn on camera was uncomfortable, but it made the film better.

Patera: That vulnerability is really what carries it. She didn’t come in as an expert on farming. She came in curious. She was learning in real time.

How much footage did it take to make the final cut?

Patera: When it was all said and done, probably two or three hundred hours of work for about 15 minutes of film.

We filmed for several days in Alaska, then did pickup interviews and additional shoots afterward. There were a lot of people involved on the back end including sound design, editing and post-production. A lot of attention went into things viewers might not consciously notice, but they feel when they watch it.

What was it like showing the film at the Anchorage International Film Festival?

Pallin: Surreal. Sitting in a theater and watching people react, laughing and crying, was incredibly emotional.

I felt a little out of place at first. I’m a florist, not a filmmaker. But being there made me appreciate the filmmaking community so much more.

Patera: One of the big themes at the festival was that nobody does this for money. It’s a labor of love. That’s true in film, and it’s true in farming and floristry, too.

Do you see this turning into something bigger?

Pallin: Right now, I’m letting it happen organically. I’ve had people ask about funding and future projects, but we’re not there yet.

The goal is to get the film in front of people and let it do what it’s going to do. If it opens doors, great. If it just makes people think differently about flowers, that matters too.

What do you hope people take away from it?

Pallin: I hope people don’t look at things from such a surface-level viewpoint. Understanding where something comes from, who grew it, who handled it, how it got here, is meaningful.

If you’re coming to buy a flower, thinking about its journey is kind of beautiful.

Patera: Understanding the story behind something, whether it’s a film or a flower, changes how you experience it. Once you understand where something comes from, you don’t really look at it the same way.

A Different Kind of Team How Performing Arts Impacts Youth Beyond the Stage

By Alex Gartner, Pensacola Children’s Chorus Artistic and Executive Director

Envision, for a moment, an activity where children come together to drill fundamentals, run reps and build endurance. They’re led by highly skilled coaches who focus on technique, agility and mental fitness. Here, everyone is part of the same team, but everyone has a different role—some serve as encouraging and inspiring leaders; others are more supportive, contributing to the team’s overall success; and some, understandably, fall somewhere in between. After weeks of learning each other’s rhythm, it’s finally time to perform for a packed crowd of supportive fans. What is this teamcentered, rigorous, high-spirited activity, you ask? Why, it’s choir, of course!

For generations, many have sought to place sports and the arts on opposite ends of a spectrum. Sports teach teamwork and discipline. Performing arts teach self-expression and emotional well-being. Still, some argue there is no spectrum at all—both exhibit the innate team-like atmosphere, a commitment to personal and collective success and repeated practice that make a transformational impact on a child. So why are both viewed so differently?

Perhaps it’s simply about one’s interests. A child need not be the most physically fit to participate in

team sports, just as a child with a shy voice need not be excluded from the choir. In both instances, commitment, skill development and knowledgeable mentors can all play a part in a child’s success on the field or in the concert hall. The Pensacola Children’s Chorus (PCC) has recognized this correlation and in the process created a unique program that serves to positively impact the community’s youth.

Time-Tested Tradition

The PCC began in 1990 as an extension of the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra after Susan and Allen Pote were enlisted to assemble a group of children to perform as part of the Symphony’s holiday program. What started as one ensemble has grown into 14, and many special traditions grew along the way.

Perhaps the most beloved is Christmas on the Coast , an annual holiday spectacular that features arrangements of traditional carols and the latest holiday hits, routinely rated one of Pensacola’s best annual events. In addition to its flagship holiday production, PCC presents seasonal concerts throughout the year that showcase classical, multicultural and contemporary repertoire.

Choir at its Core

Every organization has a “secret formula” for success. At PCC, it’s the confluence of five core competencies: responsibility, teamwork, accountability, empathy and confidence. Through a unique program framework rooted in arts education philosophy and performance, PCC proudly serves a population of over 300 singers annually—99 percent of whom identify as positive contributors to their community. This statistic, along with other practices and traditions, are what make PCC so special.

The beating heart of PCC is the Resident Choir Program, a network of nine agebased choirs that meet in downtown Pensacola. These groups are open to eager singers in grades first through 12th who meet once per week during the school year. It’s through these weekly practices that the impact of the performing arts manifests in a child.

The continued commitment to learning notes, rhythms and dance steps builds a child’s competency. The repeated practice of these skills strengthens confidence that resonates in other aspects of their life. Over time, they become more resilient, able to make mistakes without shame.

Apart from week-to-week commitment, multiyear membership is perhaps one of PCC’s greatest strengths, with some singers participating over 10 years. Even so, the difference between a 1-year and 5-year member is astounding. This leads to a compelling impact:

• 92 percent report a stronger ability to make friends

• 97 percent agree chorus helps build positive self-esteem

• 97 percent agree chorus provides a sense of identity and belonging Parents and caregivers also routinely communicate a noticeable growth in their child’s social skills and selfconfidence that leads to positive outcomes in school:

• 92 percent observe an increase in literacy skills

• 95 percent agree chorus motivates academic achievement

• 96 percent report chorus supports good in-school behaviors

With a 92 percent retention rate, it’s clear that PCC membership is much more than an after school activity. It’s a place where like-minded children can come together to grow as musicians and humans alike. As an added bonus—it’s fun!

The Most Accessible Instrument

Singing is arguably the most affordable of all musical practices. The instrument is biological—built-in—and doesn’t require extra purchases to obtain it. Of course, employing experts to help train a child’s voice for singing is obviously not free, nor are the operational costs of running youth musical organizations. Still, PCC commits itself to making singing an affordable musical practice.

Nearly half of PCC’s members receive some level of financial assistance, mostly through need-based scholarships provided through the Affordable, Accessible Arts initiative, or Triple-A for short. A brief, non-invasive application can reduce tuition for many families, with the remainder of tuition funds being supported by generous donors.

“My son has been a part of PCC since the first grade, and it has been one of the most consistent and impactful parts of his life,” Brittany, mother of 5-year member, Jackson, shared. “Structure and emotional regulation have always been challenges. Choir offers him a safe, nurturing environment where he not only thrives but flourishes. He’s formed friendships that matter and learned how to work as part of a team.

These and other skills have carried over into both school and other activities. I cannot fully express how grateful I am for the Triple-A initiative and the doors it continues to open for my child.”

Brittany and Jackson’s testimony is one of countless others who benefit from financial subsidy initiatives. In fact, PCC maintains a special reserve account to ensure aid can continue in times of scarcity. Since 2016, over $467,000 has been awarded towards need-based scholarships.

Fully subsidized membership is offered through an invaluable partnership with the Escambia Children’s Trust. This partnership provides direct services, such as transportation, academic tutoring and other participation costs, for Escambia’s most vulnerable youth.

Apart from scholarships, PCC also partners with the City of Pensacola Department of Parks & Recreation to offer low-to-no-cost choirs that meet in several neighborhood community centers throughout the year. Additionally, PCC also operates low-cost satellite groups in Century and Atmore, providing high quality musical experiences to youth who lack easy access to the downtown cultural hub of Pensacola. This network of programs personifies PCC’s commitment to making the performing arts accessible for all children while breaking down socioeconomic barriers.

For parents and caregivers wondering what comes next, the invitation is simple: explore. Attend a performance, talk with your child about what excites them, and sample opportunities like choir, dance, theater, band or even youth orchestra programs offered throughout our community. PCC welcomes curious families year-round with auditions, open rehearsals and accessible enrollment options. More information can be found on their website at pensacolasings.org.

Whether your child ultimately finds their home on a concert stage or a rehearsal studio, it’s important to give them the chance to try. In Pensacola, performing arts don’t have to be an either-or proposition—they are a team sport all their own. And, at PCC, there’s room for every child who’s ready to show up and sing their heart out.

Stoking the Flames

WoodStoke Pottery and Kiln Festival Returns

By Darien Hardy

The Gulf Coast Kiln Walk (GCKW) Society is taking their annual walk through history for the 21st WoodStoke Pottery and Kiln Festival.

The WoodStoke Pottery and Kiln Festival is an annual event hosted by the GCKW Society. The festival celebrates the culture surrounding the ceramic arts and traditional woodfired pottery by unloading historic kilns alongside local and national ceramic artists and selling unique artwork.

Attendees are invited to watch—and even participate in—the kiln unloading, buy handmade pottery from more than 30 potters and enjoy homemade food courtesy of the Navarre Beach Area Garden Club.

“The festival is a display of the culmination of weeks of collective work by a dedicated community of clay artists,”

Pensacola State College (PSC) Assistant Professor of Art (ceramics) Micah Cain said. “The firing is truly a collaborative effort from artists, students and volunteers that all contribute to loading, maintaining and tending the kiln.”

As a participating GCKW artist, Cain actively supports PSC student involvement, working side by side with his students as they load the kilns and rotate through shifts during the multi-day firing process.

“I always enjoy the opportunity to bring PSC students to take part in the Kiln Walk’s annual wood firings,” Cain said. “For many, it is their first encounter with this traditional firing method, making the experience especially meaningful. Additionally, engaging with the broader community of artists and potters reinforces the value of collaboration within our regional arts community.”

While the festival is free to attend, event-goers are encouraged to explore a variety of ceramic art pieces on sale by the potters in attendance.

“We just started, in the last 10 years, setting up so that the participating artists can have their own booth and tables for their art,” co-owner of Holley Hill Pottery and founding member of the GCKW Society Brenda Stokes said. “At a designated time, all the artists can go collect their pieces and bring them to the table. Attendees can write their name and number on a piece of painters tape and stick it on the pieces they are interested in. That puts it in the artists’ hands to contact interested parties about the sales.”

A limited number of commemorative bowls and mugs will be available for a $20 donation, which includes the chance to sample seafood, chili and other specialty dishes prepared by members of the Navarre Beach Area Garden Club, one of the event’s many sponsors.

Members of the public are invited to help the potters unload the 32-foot wood-fire kiln, passing freshly fired pieces hand to hand to awaiting tables where attendees can browse the pottery for sale and connect with the artists.

“The opening of the kiln is an especially meaningful moment,” Cain said. “Students, fellow artists and members of the community gather for the reveal of the finished work. Sharing in the collective excitement as each unique piece emerges from the kiln and is passed among those present is one of the most rewarding aspects of the annual firings and festival.”

All proceeds from the WoodStoke Festival support the new ceramic art center to be constructed adjacent to the historical kilns. Holley Hill Pottery owners Brenda, Marty and Jason Stokes deeded one acre of their property to the GCKW Society to begin construction on the building.

“The center will be a place where anyone can come and take lessons,” Stokes explained. “We’re going to gear lessons toward elementary age and beyond so that anyone can take art classes.”

The GCKW Society focuses on wood fire kilns over gas or electric due to the environmental benefits.

“We’re going to focus on beginning wood fire kilns, which are easier to operate,” Stokes explained. “Beyond that, we have four different ways of firing pottery here, from Raku to salt to soda to wood fire. That’s why we call it the Kiln Walks, because you can walk through the history of different kilns.”

The center will be a public learning center for the arts, and it will be open to allow artists to come in and work at their own pace while offering lessons to anyone who is interested.

“The [GCKW Society] offers opportunities for learning, mentorship, and artistic growth for me as well as for PSC students,” Cain said. “The festival is a celebration of shared labor, tradition and the vibrant ceramics community that makes it all possible.”

The 21st annual WoodStoke Festival will be held on February 14 from 9 am to 3 pm at Holley Hill Pottery, located at 7507 Buckeye Dr. in Navarre. The festival is open to all ages, and there is no cost to attend.

For more information about the GCKW Society and its annual WoodStoke Pottery and Kiln Festival, visit gulfcoastkilnwalk.org or check out @GulfCoastKilnWalk on Facebook.

Q&A with Steven Dark, 2026 Featured Artist

This year’s WoodStoke Festival featured artist is Contemporary Folk Artist Steven Dark. Dark’s career with sculpture spans more than 30 years as an Alabama Gulf Coast potter and ceramist. He is well-known for his funky, unusual, sometimes somber and humorous pieces. He usually works on a series of six to eight pieces at a time. Dark’s style focuses on throwing his primary forms on the wheel with decorative parts to make some impressive works of art. When the clay is at just the right stage of dryness, he begins the assembly process to create his one-of-akind masterpieces. Pensacola Magazine had the wonderful opportunity to talk more with Dark about his work and involvement with the GCKW Society. For more information about Dark or to commission his work, check him out on Facebook @Steven.Dark2.

Can you describe your sculpture style, and how you discovered it?

Dark: I discovered my sculpture style with time. I’ve been making pots pretty much my whole life. One thing led to the next. I’ve always been throwing on the wheel. Most sculptors would work on solid clay, which allows them to add and subtract, add and subtract. For my technique, I throw all the parts on the wheel. The piece is hollow from the very beginning. There’s not much room for subtracting. I build these forms up off of various pieces. I’ll sit down for a session or two and make a bunch of different pieces and parts, and then they’ll dry and set to the point when I can handle them without ruining them. There are rules of working with clay that you have to abide by. Clay has to be strong enough to hold itself up, but wet enough where you can still make joints and connections. Once the clay gets too dry, you can’t really join the pieces together. I make the pieces, then I build the forms and add all the details. That would be the face, hair, a costume of some kind, clothing or anything else. Then, I model the piece like you might think a sculptor would. Part of my style is that the thrown forms dictate the shape of the whole piece. I get a lot of variety that I might not have gotten before. I try not to over plan or overthink the art. This technique allows my pieces to have their own style, separate from what most other people do.

Why is making art important to you?

Dark: It’s a job. It’s funny. I’m trained. I did an informal apprenticeship with a man who talked me into going to college. I have two degrees. I have a bachelor’s of fine art. I have a master’s of fine art. I have a terminal degree in my field, and I think of it like whether I was a doctor, a lawyer, plumber or anything else. It’s my job. I did not want to be a factory worker—I didn’t want to be a number. I didn’t really

know what I wanted to do, so the art thing kind of came out of nowhere. Now, I’m hopelessly blue collar because I work like a dog, but I didn’t want to work in a factory. Sort of backfired on me.

What part of your creative process excites you the most, and why?

Dark: I like throwing on the wheel and working the clay to its extent. With sculptures, there’s different ways to work with clay—like hand building and throwing are two different things. You can make coils, you can make slabs, you can pinch. I like to combine all of those things together. The pieces start on the wheel, and the concepts unfold as I work. It’s like constant problem solving. I don’t really try to get an exact likeness, because the forms that come off the wheel may not be exactly like the shape of your head, but still, I can reference other things. I use a lot of context clues when I do these commissions, and somebody will say, “I’m a retired forensic scientist, I play golf and I have five kids.” I can build all these elements into the sculpture to suggest who it is, and lean on the context as much as or more than photographic likeness. That part is fun, because everyone’s totally different. When a customer requests a piece, I tend to make at least two sculptures and I work on them simultaneously even though they’re the same person. Maybe there are some variations. I’ll send [my clients] pictures along the way, talk to them about the process without giving them too many chances to make changes and then I let them choose one that resonates with them.

How did you get involved with the GCKW Society, and what has been the best part of being a featured artist for the 2026 WoodStoke Festival?

Dark: I have a kind of three legged stool. I teach, I show and sell in galleries, and then I do some outdoor arts and crafts festivals. I met Marty and Brenda really early in my career, and they too did outdoor arts and crafts festivals once upon a time. I heard Brenda talking about this idea she had about the [GCKW Society], but I wasn’t really around at the moment of building the kiln. I didn’t get to participate the very first time, but I’ve been in on it every other time since then. I’ve been involved in over 20 firings [of the kiln], basically since the start of it. I was pretty reluctant about being this year’s featured artist. I had a lot of work this year, and it kept me from getting started on this project until late. I made a lot of pumpkins this summer and that spawned right off into Christmas stuff. And all those commissions took so long that I got a late start getting ready for this kiln. I still have some nice stuff to put in there, but I wish I had more. I would much rather just be the guy carrying the wood and throwing it in the oven. I like firing the kiln. The process is probably the most important part of it. It’s an extremely arduous process. It’s labor intensive, and we burn a lot of wood to make the kiln get to the right temperature. It’s a big old longer, and it takes a lot of people. There’s a lot of hands on deck, there’s a lot of coordination, and a part of the excitement is the camaraderie and the team building that comes through.

Looking to the future, what goals do you have for yourself and your art?

Dark: I always want to reflect on what I’m doing and improve on it. Every time I sit down to start a new cycle, I’m building off the one before it. My ideas have all been growing off of each other for all these years. I’ve probably got 15 different things or more in my portfolio that I’d like to make. The portraits are just one of them, but that’s what I’ve been focused on most lately. And so, the goal is just to continue to improve and try to stay excited after all this time. I’ve been married to clay, basically, for 40 years, so some days I have to manufacture excitement, and some days it comes more naturally.

Pensacon 2026 Celebrates Fans and Creators Fellowship of the Fandom Fellowship of the Fandom

By Nic Fenger

Pensacola is experiencing transformation on every level. From major infrastructure improvements and unprecedented residential growth to leadership changes and national recognition as one of the places to live, the city is on the move. Through it all, residents, business owners and students are witnessing the city’s evolution firsthand—one that honors its identity as a historic centerpiece of the Panhandle while boldly embracing a new era of cultural and urban growth.

Yet amid all this change, one event remains a constant haven for creativity, capturing the soul and spirit of fan culture. Captivating fans of all ages, it draws talent and artistry from the local community and around the world. That event is Pensacon, Pensacola’s annual pop culture convention.

Since its inception in 2013, Pensacon remains a local melting pot for fans of comic books, film, games, anime, cosplay and more. Now in its 13th year, Pensacon seeks to uphold its values of community, conversation and culture, uniting fans and creators in celebration of the art of years past and eager anticipation of the art that is to come.

“Last year, we had just under 100 celebrity guests when you include all of the actors, authors and artists, writers and wrestlers,” Pensacon Director of Media and Guest Relations Julio Diaz said. “We take from all over the pop culture world, not just from people that are in front of the camera, but from people that are behind the camera, people who do other creative things that often eventually lead to things that will be on camera, you know, like comics and novels and things like that.“

The convention returns to the Pensacola Bay Center from February 20 to 22, offering venues, panels and celebrities for fans of many genres from horror thrillers to science fiction.

Two of the most anticipated guests this year are Cara Buono and Randy Havens, alumni of the hit Netflix series Stranger Things, the science-fiction horror phenomenon that recently concluded its 10-year run with its fifth season wrapping up in late 2025. Buono played Karen Wheeler in the show, but she is also known for her roles in other popular shows like The Sopranos and CW’s Supergirl. Havens played the science teacher Mr. Clark in Stranger Things, also having played roles in movies such as Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 and Godzilla: King of Monsters.

Cast reunions of old favorites also largely define this year’s guest lineup. Actors Jason Patric, Alex Winter, Jamison Newlander, Billy Wirth and Chance Michael Corbitt, the stars of Joel Schumacher’s vampire thriller The Lost Boys, reunite at Pensacon, as do Alex Hyde-White, Rebecca Staab, Jay Underwood and Michael Bailey Smith—the original Fantastic Four, who recently cameoed in Marvel’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Actors from the delightfully gory Terrifier franchise also make an appearance at the con, including David Howard Thornton, the actor of Art the Clown himself.

This year’s Pensacon welcomes even more big names to the convention, including Frank Grillo, who plays Rick Flag Sr. across the new DC Comics screen entries, including the critically acclaimed Peacemaker TV show and the 2025 box-office hit Superman. However, some of these big names

only appear at the convention on certain days. For instance, Will Wheaton, legendary actor of Star Trek: The Next Generation and a prolific writer and speaker, will visit Pensacon on February 20 and 21. Sara Gilbert and Lecy Goranson of The Connors, Michael Ironside of Total Recall, and Michelle Hurd of Star Trek: Picard are at the convention from February 21 to 22. Mindy Cohn, who played Natalie Green on The Facts of Life and voiced Velma Dinkley in the ScoobyDoo franchise from 2002 to 2015, will make her appearance on February 20. Schedule your days accordingly by using the official Pensacon mobile app so you can be sure to meet and greet with these incredible actors.

Multiple local businesses will also host Pensacon-related events and activities alongside the main convention itself. For instance, this year, the Fish House will transmogrify into Harry Potter’s Hogwarts School

of Witchcraft and Wizardry, adding new magical beverages to the menu—Butterbeer, The Goblet of Fire and more—and hosting all of a wizard’s favorite activities: Quidditch, wand choosing and taking pictures with a Dementor (well, maybe that’s not a universally favorite activity…).

Pensacon’s popular costume contests will return this year, divided into two categories. The adults contest (ages 13 and older) will be held at the Henry Roberts Activity Center at First United Methodist Church of Pensacola, starting at 3 pm on February 21. The kids contest (12 and under) will take place at the Poseidon’s Bay Stage in front of the Pensacola Bay Center from noon to 1 pm. These contests welcome cosplayers of all backgrounds to try out, so do not be afraid to sign up at pensacon.com.

Pensacon 2026 will be held February 21 through 22 at the Pensacola Bay Center at 201 E. Gregory St. in downtown Pensacola. Ticketing, celebrity autographs, photo ops and the vendor floor will be located at the primary convention venue, the Pensacola Bay Center.

Most official events and activities will take place from 1 to 7 pm on Friday, 10 am to 6 pm on Saturday and from 10 am to 5 pm on Sunday. Visit the Venues page on the Pensacon website for the complete list of official Pensacon events and venue locations.

everybody. I always kind of talk about it as the fellowship of fandom. It’s a place where you can enjoy the things you enjoy and meet other people that enjoy those things.”

For the latest updates and the complete 2026 schedule of events, download the official Pensacon app on your smartphone.

Both single-day and weekend passes are on sale now and can be purchased online at purplepass.com. Three-day passes cost $112.98, while single-day passes range from $60.12 to $71.12, depending on the day.

Pensacola’s art scene isn’t shy—you just have to know where to look. Our city is a vibrant hub for galleries, art shows and artist studios, each showcasing a diverse mix of talent and styles waiting to be discovered. Pensacola’s art scene is too vast to cover in just a few pages, but a few local artists stand out for their unique visions spanning multi-dimensional forms like bronze sculpture and sunken ship-inspired ceramics to painted canvas exhibiting a distinctive presence and message. Pensacola Magazine spoke with five local artists to watch who embrace a variety of mediums and push creative boundaries, and below we offer a glimpse at each artist’s background, their creative process and the inspiration behind their work.

ARTISTS TO WATCH

By Dawn Gresko

Presence in Play

Ryan Mayall is a self-taught artist whose journey into the art world began with poetry, but he ventured into another outlet of artistic expression with abstract painting in 2016. He was intrigued by a friend’s painting and the way it lent itself to interpretation and imagination. In turn, what began as an experiment with craft paint and repurposed canvas led to a career in fine art creation and exploring spiritual themes and cathartic release through contemporary abstract expressionist painting.

“In the beginning it was a cathartic release and gave my inner child space to express and feel safe to do so without judgement,” Mayall said. “It’s developed into self-realization like a spiritual practice: I call it presence in play.”

There’s no denying spiritual themes in Mayall’s artwork with recurring motifs like the golden orb and butterflies, symbols of the spirit and transformation. Of course, interpretation varies from viewer to viewer and his goal is to pull a powerful feeling from the viewer: a feeling that captures the viewer’s attention and creates a present moment in a world swept up in the fast pace of digital devices in which we slide from one story to the next and there’s something new every millisecond.

When creating his abstract art, Mayall usually begins by having a handful of colors in mind that he wants to use. Mayall makes his own brushes from wood and repurposing house painting brushes into varying degrees of vertical brushes, ranging from soft to hard bristles. He turns on music, feels an emotion and uses his handmade brushes to start with slow movements until the desired motion is achieved. Inspired by Bob Ross and the idea of “happy accidents,” he welcomes experimentation, often turning chaos and the occasional “mistake” into something beautiful and uniquely his own. Sometimes this means incorporating

RYAN MAYALL

items like snake skin and plant leaves into his painting, leaning into the concept of transformation.

“I love the unpredictability and chaos of it,” Mayall said. “It gives me the opportunity to be present rather than sitting there overthinking calculations in my head on a design.”

Mayall’s method usually consists of mono-printing: creating by removing paint from an inked surface to achieve unique textures and painterly effects, making each impression distinct. He starts layering black paint directly on his studio wall and later presses a canvas up to the paint to create an impression and get the initial layer of the painting down. After that, he goes back and forth between layers, pulling old layers to the front and adding new layers. It’s a process of building layer upon layer.

While seeing other artists fulfill their passions continues to inspire Mayall, it was important for him to have his own space to focus on his work and the message he aims to convey. For that reason he opened his own studio, Ryan Mayall Fine Art Galleries and Studios. To see more of Mayall’s art, you can visit his gallery at 2403 W. Cervantes St. or website ryanmayall.com.

Making Waves with Surreal Waterscapes

There’s an artist making waves in our city with her surreal waterscapes: Sarah Soule Webb is a Pensacola native who became serious about pursuing art full time around 15 years ago when she decided to leave behind her career as a registered dietitian. Though life led her to Birmingham, Ala. for a decade and a half, the waters of her Pensacola hometown remained her muse and continue to inspire the waterscapes and underwater portraiture that underline her work.

“When I was in Birmingham, I longed for the water,” Webb said. “Growing up in Pensacola never leaves you.”

Webb’s process involves painting wild, loose, colorful backgrounds that lends her art a surrealistic hand. She saves white or the lightest color in a composition for last, adding a pop of light that really brings her art to life. Webb creates many layers using acrylic washes, acrylics being a favorite of hers because of how quickly they dry and their flexibility of use, since acrylics can resemble water colors or oils depending on what additives are used.

Her new studio on Palafox Street held its grand opening November 2025, and serves as both her own space for creating and as a gallery for other local artists. In line with building community and support for fellow artists, Webb has a long list of featured artists coming into her gallery this year, who she looks forward to promoting and having special events to highlight some new talent. Currently, Webb’s gallery features the coastal-inspired woodwork of Pete Davidson, black and grey realism art by Loren Miller as well as prints by Kelly Whibbs Art.

SARAH SOULE WEBB

“Being a full-time artist can be very isolating,” Webb said. “I had been on the lookout for a more elevated space that doubled as a gallery, one that I could also represent other artists. I never imagined how much fun I’d have creating work in the morning and then opening up the doors for visitors. I just love the short and long visits of new and old friends.”

Outside her studio on Palafox Street, Webb recently utilized the Reimagine Palafox renovation fencing to hang up three large canvases for a triptych that will be heading to a Boca Raton hospital. While her studio space would not have allowed her to paint all three in a row, once realizing she had wall space outside she improvised and took her art to the streets: painting outside, meeting with people and jamming to street musicians while finishing up the big project.

Her large-scale work has been showcased in some highly visible and exciting places from The Mayo Clinic in South Florida, The Four Seasons in Naples, The Alamite Hotel in Tuscaloosa, and Baptist Hospital here in Pensacola.

Discover more on Sarah Soule Webb Studios by visiting her space at 126 Palafox Place, or follow her journey on social media @SarahSouleWebbStudios.

Connection Through NatureInspired Art

Nate Schweigert is a local queer artist and chaplain whose work combines nature and nurturing. Through his nature-inspired art and chaplaincy he aims to create a connection between others and allow a container where conversation can occur judgment-free. Although always an artist in one form or another throughout his life, Schweigert began seriously pursuing art as an outlet and potential for further expression in his mid-to-late 20s. From tour guide in Alaska to living in China for a year, which allowed him to experience different perspectives and other languages, Schweigert has had an opportunity to explore the world and find ways to keep his artistic visions alive.

Although painting has been a staple for his business in art, Schweigert enjoys other artistic avenues like landscaping, interior design and decorating. Nature is a constant source of inspiration for Schweigert, from the owls that move over his home in the winter to herons that meet him on his walks with his dog. For Schweigert, nature represents a theme of connection in his artwork: the idea that everything and everyone belongs. But art is just one way Schweigert aims to create a connection to others, as he also serves as a local chaplain.

“A chaplain is someone who comes alongside you in your story,” Schwegiert said. “Not imposing their own solutions but listening for keys and threads that you already have within you. The central theme for my art and being a chaplain is creating space to ask questions, explore narratives and have a conversation.”

While nature provides inspiration to Schweigert’s works, he also finds a source of inspiration in a person he never met but knows well through a shared artistic expression: his late uncle. His uncle’s art supplies were passed down to Schweigert, and he still has pieces of his uncle’s art

NATE SCHWEIGERT

in his home. One of the most notable pieces is of an alligator reclining by a pool with a magazine, a theme of anthropomorphism or animals with human characteristics that Schweigert continues to play with in his own artwork.

“My style is playful and whimsical but also deep and curious,” Schweigert said. “I think in one piece you may see contemplation, and in another piece you may see sass. I would hope it captures the fullness of human emotion and feeling, mostly through the natural world.”

Schweigert recently opened Studio 321, his own gallery and studio in East Hill located in the Old Sacred Heart Hospital. His goal is to have a handful of new original canvas pieces by March 21, when he will host an unveiling event. Aside from his studio, Blue Moon Antique Mall and Golden Hour Teahouse are a few public venues where you can find Schweigert’s original artworks and framed prints. Learn more about Schweigert’s art and upcoming events by following him on Instagram @nate.geo or visiting nategeo.co.

A Second Chance Through Art

Drew Rehwinkel is a Yale graduate and teacher turned sculptor. Rehwinkel began sculpting 10 years ago, when he looked to art to help guide him out of a mentally and physically tolling time. Rehwinkel delved into the art of sculpture with beginner classes at First City Art Center (FCAC), which evolved into utilizing college-level resources at the University of West Florida and Pensacola State College (PSC) with mentors like Sam Nettles (FCAC) and Jimmy Rhea (PSC) impacting his mold-making and foundry arts skills so he could fully realize his dream of becoming a bronze sculptor.

“It was embracing my passion for art that gave me the courage to use this second chance, if you will, to work through my mental health challenges,” Rehwinkel said. “Thanks to art, my family, and advanced research in Treatment Resistant Depression, I feel reborn, rejuvenated and excited for the next step in my path.”

For Rehwinkel, bronze sculptures are time capsules capable of withstanding the harshest of elements and serve as symbols that will endure through time. Some of his current sculpting endeavors include making perceived low-value and waste objects into long-lasting materials preserved in bronze: banana peels, crumpled water bottles and Ramen noodles are just some pieces he is working on at the moment. Although bronze is a staple in his work, Rehwinkel is experimenting with a copper alloy called nordic gold–while it contains no actual gold it can be cast into shape and polished to a brilliant golden finish.

Like with many creators, Rehwinkel’s process starts with an idea or vision. He jots down notes or a rough draft on a sketchpad, where he evaluates the idea and determines if it is compelling enough to captivate a viewer. Once

DREW REHWINKEL

the sculpting is complete, Rehwinkel makes a mold of rubber, silicone or plaster and casts a hollow version of his sculpture in wax. The wax copy is encased in a plaster and silica block then melted out in a kiln, leaving a void in the block into which the molten bronze can be poured. After pouring, the piece is sandblasted, chased with a grinder then a final patina is applied.

“I have come to believe that my role is to serve as a link between the past and the future,” Rehwinkel said. “Newer artists need to learn these time-honored skills, developed over thousands of years, before they are lost. By teaching sculpture, I hope to influence a new community of artists to embrace the qualities of bronze casting that means so much to me.”

Rehwinkel looks forward to teaching his own sculpture classes at BoBo Pottery Studio in Gulf Breeze. More of Rehwinkel’s work will be featured at his next solo show in May and June at Artel Gallery, where you will see numerous bronze sculptures, both large and small. To learn more about Rehwinkel’s upcoming events and view more of his work, visit drewtheartist.com and follow @DrewtheSculptor on Instagram.

Art Entwined with History

Originally from Basor, Kan., Jenna Zydlo is a ceramics artist with dual interests in art and history—a combination that fueled the creation of her shipwreck-inspired exhibit, Sunken Series. Zydlo has always been driven by a deep curiosity about the world and the past: she was only 4 years old when she visited her first archaeological site and always wanted to watch the National Geographic channel instead of cartoons like SpongeBob. This interest bled into her art over the years, when she started to watercolor and acrylic paint using photos of archeological sites as references. For Zydlo, she realized archeology and art are deeply entwined in history, and their connection could be something she explored in her art. All this culminated in a path to earning her dual degree in studio art and anthropology from University of West Florida in 2025.

Zydlo’s desire to build the Sunken Series was inspired by her participation in the terrestrial and underwater excavation of the 16th-century Spanish colonial settlement site of Tristan de Luna in the summer of 2023. Her series does not copy but takes inspiration from what she learned during field school and other excavation opportunities, coupled with extensive research on the Tristan de Luna site and other early Spanish shipwrecks and sites in our area.

“I wanted to balance realism with inspiration,” Zydlo said. “I wanted all of my pieces to be realistic yet slightly fantastical to play into the story of the passage of time and what the symbols themselves represent.”

Zydlo’s Sunken Series exhibit is available to view at Florida Public Archeology Network’s Destination Archeology Resource Center and showcases three pieces: Silver Coins, Galleon and Storage Vessel. All of the pieces were hand-built with stoneware clay because of its versatility and durability.

JENNA ZYDLO

Zydlo even incorporated shells found at Pensacola Beach by making her own casts of the shells out of clay. Her process for making Silver Coins had an especially interesting tie to the past, as the process was very similar to how coins were historically minted: Zydlo carved out her own stamps for the coins out of clay, then fired and imprinted them on a slab.

As for the glaze, Zydlo chose an uneven blue-green color for the dimension and because it was reminiscent of the reflection of light through dark water—furthering the illusion that all three pieces had been embedded in the sea floor for hundreds of years. To add a look of weathering and tarnish that appears on silver objects in real underwater shipwrecks, Zydlo used black and brown iron oxide on the ship, coins and shells.

“I would love to continue to expand on the intersection of anthropology and art,” Zydlo said. “Ideally, I’d love to make work inspired by the sites and cultures I get to see and experience.”

Looking to the future, Zydlo is searching for her own studio or to join a space where she can further explore her interests in art and history. To follow Zydlo on her journey, check out @zydlo.art on Instagram.

Pensacola Ice Flyers Schedule & Theme Nights

February home games and theme nights at the Pensacola Bay Center. Games begin at 7:05 pm. For tickets and information, visit iceflyers.com.

February 6 - Knoxville Ice Bears vs Ice Flyers; Adult Jersey Giveaway

February 7 - Knoxville Ice Bears vs Ice Flyers; Military Appreciation

February 15 - Macon Mayhem vs Ice Flyers; Lilo & Stitch Night

February 27 - Birmingham Bulls vs Ice Flyers; Dino Race Night

February 28 - Birmingham Bulls vs Ice Flyers; 30th Anniversary of Pensacola Hockey

Pensacola Double Bridge Run

February 7

The Pensacola Double Bridge Run is back, offering the chance to participate in either the 15K or 5K run. The 15K course starts at Maritime Park and takes runners over two bridges across Pensacola Bay and Santa Rosa Sound. Participants will travel through downtown Pensacola with a tour that includes the historic district and picturesque Bayfront Parkway to a run through Gulf Breeze and on to Pensacola Beach. All runners for the 15K are required to keep a 14-minute per mile pace. The 5K begins adjacent to the Gulf Breeze High School Football Field, where both runners and walkers are invited to travel from Gulf Breeze to beautiful Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Island and the Gulf Islands Seashore. Cash prizes will be given to winners first through fifth place. As a Pensacola Sports event, proceeds from the run benefit the organization’s goal to provide safe, fun activities for area youth as well as to engage and benefit organizations such as Arc Gateway, The Optimist Club, Police Cadet Programs and area Rotary Clubs. For more details or to register, check out pensacolasports.com.

Artel Gallery’s Choices You Make Exhibit Through February 13

Choose art on the edge with Artel Gallery’s Choices You Make exhibit running through February 13. This exhibit highlights experimental pieces by local artists like Gila Rayberg and Veronica Figueroa. While you’re there, check out other various exhibits by featured artists Mary Cooper Portera, Destiny Doss, Carlotta Succi and Nicolas Crogh. Artel Gallery is a non-profit run entirely by volunteers, and it was founded in

1993 to foster appreciation for art in its purest form. For more information on how to volunteer or to learn about upcoming shows, visit artelgallery.org.

Entrecon Workshop Series

February 12

Join Studer Institute for a high-impact sales training designed to help stop relying on hustle and start building a system that works with their Workshop Series on February 12 from 8:30 to 10:30 am. This workshop is perfect for sales professionals, business owners and leaders ready to bring clarity and consistency to sales efforts. Landrum Corporate Vice President Andrew Sowell will be the training facilitator and during this workshop you will learn about building a repeatable sales system that scales, defining your ideal client and refining client base, creating a clear decision-based sales process plus identifying buying triggers that speed up deals. Seats are limited, so save your spot or find out more at studeri.org.

Educational Series Event by Pensacola Federation of Garden Clubs

February 12

Gather together for a thoughtful, informative day celebrating gardening, learning and community with the Educational Series Event by Pensacola Federation of Garden Clubs at the Pensacola Garden Center on Thursday, February 12 with check in beginning at 8:15 am. Featured learning sessions include Beth Bolles with Alternatives to Turf, Rick O’Connor presenting Living With Snakes, Joshua Criss with Florida Friendly Landscaping and HOAs plus Carol Perryman’s Companion Planting With Herbs. Also available after the event will be Truth Mobile Sharpening, Native Plant Company plant sales, Pensacola Camellia Club camellias, as well as a 50/50 drawing and opportunity baskets. Find out more at pensacolagardencenter.com.

Galentine’s Crafted Social

February 15

Grab the girls and celebrate with a Galentine’s Crafted Social at Petit Ami Event Venue located at 196 N. Palafox St. on Sunday, February 15 starting at noon. Arrive early for the champagne social at 11:30 am. Mix and mingle with powerhouse women in business from all over the Gulf Coast. Featured guest will be Taylor Smith, founder of The Power Table, who will provide coaching on “speed friending.” The afternoon is designed for connection, cocktails,

EVENT CALENDAR

charcuteries and community. Food is prepared by Grazing the South LLC and cocktails by The Thirsty Ranch. Tickets are $65 per person. Discover more or get tickets at thethirstyranch.hbportal.com.

A Taste of Ireland: The Irish Music & Dance Sensation

February 21

Laugh, cry and jig into the night with a production that is Celtic, for this generation. Direct from Off-Broadway and starring former World Irish dance champions, including performers from Lord of the Dance and Riverdance, A Taste of Ireland transports the audience through the story of Ireland’s tumultuous history delivered with a pint of Irish wit. Watch world-class performers blend melodic folk mash-ups, live jaw-dropping acapella tap battles and heartwarming story telling. Featuring revamped classics of Danny Boy, Tell Me Ma, Wild Rover and many more well known songs, the show’s reimagined contemporary score blossoms alongside the brash Irish charm of the live dance cast. A Taste of Ireland merges cultural traditions, modern flair, and craic galore, to deliver a performance that has been leaving audiences across the globe jigging on their feet for the last decade.

Pensacola Chocolate & Cheese Fest

February 22

Pensacola’s Fourth Annual Chocolate and Cheese Fest will be held at Community Maritime Park on the Amphitheater side of the park. Food trucks and vendors will offer chocolate and cheese-themed bites as well as other menu items. Admission is $5 per person, but children 12 and under are free. Attendees can look forward to a variety of beer, wine and chocolate martinis, as well as fun contests, a free chocolate and cheese sampling tent plus live music and a kids bounce house. There will also be a Chocolate Pie Eating Contest at 2 pm, and the first one to eat the pie wins a trophy plus $100 in gift certificates to local restaurants. An adult charity beverage bar will also be on site, and all vendors accept cash and credit cards. Learn more at apexshowsandevents.com.

Beré Jewelers Estate Buying Event

February 24 to 27

Join Beré Jewelers at their Estate Buying Event hosted at their store located at 5033 N. 12th Ave. running from February 24 to 27. Beré Jewelers will buy gold, coins and currency, fine jewelry, designer handbags, fine art, diamonds, sterling silver, watches and other rarities like military memorabilia and pre-1950s advertising and toys.

EVENT CALENDAR

Their team of estate buying specialists will meet with you and give an honest and fair evaluation of valuables. If you choose to sell, immediate payment will be offered on the spot. No appointment is needed as this is a walk in event from 10 am to 6 pm February 24 to 26, and 10 am to 5 pm on February 27. Follow Beré Jewelers on Facebook for more details.

The Sleeping Beauty by International Ballet Stars

February 27

Immerse yourself in the magical world of Princess Aurora–Sleeping Beauty herself, doomed to a century-long slumber by the wicked fairy Carabosse and awakened only by true love’s kiss. This breathtaking performance features stunning choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable music and a dazzling cast of International Ballet stars from Italy, France, Georgia, Great Britain, Japan and Moldova. Expect brand-new sets, hand-painted scenery and eyecatching artist-crafted costumes all coming together to create a truly spectacular

experience for all ages. The show starts at 7 pm. Learn more or purchase tickets at pensacolasaenger.com.

2026

Big Gala: Little Boots, Big Dreams

February 28

The Big Gala is presented by D.R. Horton Inc. and will be hosted this year on Saturday, February 28 at The Sanctuary located at 716 N. 9th Ave. Each year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida’s Big Gala provides an opportunity for community leaders, partners and supporters to make a lasting difference by showcasing commitment to strengthening our community and helping ensure that every child has the chance to reach their fullest potential. This year’s celebration will be a night of western glam, where guests are encouraged to dust off their boots and bring the sparkle—think cocktail elegance with a western twist with boots strongly encouraged. James “Rock” and Jessica Rockhill will serve as Honorary Chairs, bringing their leadership and

unforgettable evening. Guests can look forward to exciting surprises, a vibrant celebration of community and impact and live entertainment by Grammy-nominated country duo Thompson Square, plus a little line dancing fun along the way. For more on this event, check out bbbsnwfl.org.

Gulf Coast Renaissance Fair

February 28 to March 1

Go back to medieval times with the Gulf Coast Renaissance Faire, returning to Five Flags Speedway from February 28 to March 1. There will be five stages of live entertainment, plus a jousting tournament, medieval games of skill and historic learning demonstrations. Join in with the crowd of fellow noble knights, dragon slayers, wizards and more medieval characters–costumes are strongly encouraged but not required. Other performances include swordfighters, dancers, magicians, jugglers plus musicians and singers. Find out more at gcrf.us.

Business Climate

Special Section • February 2026

45 American Magic Opens High Performance Center in Pensacola Establishing a permanent home for elite sailing and innovation

49 Around the Region

Find out what's happening in business, government and cultural news throughout Pensacola and Northwest Florida

American Magic Opens High Performance Center in Pensacola

Establishing a Permanent Home for Elite Sailing and Innovation

By Morgan Cole

American Magic celebrated the grand opening of the American Magic High Performance Center (AMHPC) at the Port of Pensacola on January 7, marking a milestone in the team’s mission to build a world-class sailing and performance platform in the United States.

Established in 2017 to challenge for the America’s Cup, the team has since expanded to integrate U.S. Olympic pathways and SailGP, while also further developing its women’s and youth programs.

The new center serves as the team’s operational base and hub for American Magic Services (AMS), where the team’s composite manufacturing and engineering expertise drives advanced manufacturing, marine technologies and aerospace projects. By combining elite sailing programs with cutting-edge design and precision engineering, Pensacola is positioned as a global center for performance sailing and technological innovation.

The new facility is far more than just a headquarters for elite sailing, it’s a hub for maritime and aerospace innovation designed to drive long-term economic impact in our region.

“Since our first day in Pensacola, the local community has welcomed us with open arms,” American Magic Chief Operating Officer Tyson Lamond said. “This facility is more than a building; it is an innovation hub that combines elite athletic preparation with advanced design, engineering and manufacturing technologies. It is built to support elite competition and drive long-term economic impact. It will develop the next generation of sailors, designers and shore teams to create opportunities for local talent and support Pensacola’s growth as a global sailing destination.”

The AMHPC will also serve as the official North American training base for SailGP, the elite international sailing league featuring national teams racing high-speed F50 foiling catamarans at iconic venues worldwide. Designed to make sailing accessible and exciting, SailGP emphasizes cutting-edge technology, world-class athletes and

sustainability through its Impact League. The season spans multiple Grand Prix fleet races and concludes with a winner-takes-all Grand Final that decides the overall champion.

Beginning in September 2026, the Pensacola facility will provide SailGP teams with access to world-class onwater and shore-based training infrastructure, supporting year-round preparation, technical development and athlete performance.

“The AMHPC is the foundation of our long-term vision: building a sustainable, high-performance American sailing platform,” American Magic Co-Founder Doug DeVos said. “By positioning Pensacola and the U.S. as a destination for world-class training, we strengthen our ability to support all sailors in national and international competitions such as youth, women, Olympic and SailGP programs.”

Founded in 2017, American Magic has competed in two America’s Cup campaigns and supports sailors across multiple disciplines. The new AMHPC integrates:

• Elite Athlete Programs: America One Racing, women’s and youth programs, the U.S. Olympic pathway and SailGP.

• American Magic Services (AMS): Composite production, R&D and design innovation for both racing and commercial projects.

• Talent Development: Internships and workforce pathways in partnership with the University of West Florida, Pensacola State College and the City of Pensacola.

• International Competition: Programs and partnerships that keep Pensacola connected to the forefront of highperformance sailing worldwide.

“Pensacola has the scale and ambition to support elite programs, and we are proud to call it our home,” American Magic President of Sailing Operations Terry Hutchinson said. “The High Performance Center is designed to support athlete development at every level. From the foiling pipeline through America One Racing and SailGP to youth and

women’s programs, our goal is to deliver world-class training environments that elevate performance and prepare sailors for the highest levels of competition.”

The AMHPC comes from the collaborative efforts of American Magic, Triumph Gulf Coast, the City of Pensacola, State of Florida and Port of Pensacola.

American Magic is creating a dedicated regional workforce pathway, already generating jobs, internships and training opportunities through partnerships with local universities and the City of Pensacola, while reinforcing Pensacola’s reputation as a premier hub for sailing and innovation.

“American Magic’s commitment to Pensacola is transformational,” Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves said. “This facility creates jobs, stimulates economic activity and firmly plants a flag in our city as a leading sailing destination. We are proud to host a world-class operation that supports innovation, education and elite competition.”

For more information on American Magic and the new AMHPC, visit americanmagic.com. To learn more about the Rolex SailGP, visit sailgp.com.

Oh, What A Beautiful Morning!

Dance back in time to the American wild west with Oklahoma!–a classic, feel-good musical that follows the blossoming love story between farm girl Laurey and charming cowboy Curly as they navigate rival suitors and the challenges of frontier life. With unforgettable songs like “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” “People Will Say We’re in Love,” the lively “Kansas City,” and of course “Oklahoma!”, this Rodgers & Hammerstein classic captures the heartwarming spirit of a community on the brink of change.

City of Pensacola Modifies Parade Routes During New Palafox Project Construction

The City of Pensacola has temporarily modified the downtown parade route during construction for The New Palafox project. Instead of crossing Garden Street and traveling down South Palafox Street to Main Street, parades will now cross Garden Street and travel down South Jefferson Street to Main Street.

Road closures will be in effect in Downtown Pensacola Monday, January 19, Friday, February 13 and Saturday, February 14 for the annual MLK Day Parade, Krewe of Lafitte Mardi Gras Parade and the Grand Mardi Gras Parade. The float staging area and the parade route will be closed to traffic approximately three hours before each parade begins.

Residents and visitors are reminded to follow all posted signage. Parking is prohibited on the parade route. Additionally, there will be no parking on:

• Main Street between Reus and Jefferson Street

• Reus Street between Main Street and Garden Street

• Garden Street between Reus and Jefferson Street

• Baylen Street between Main and Wright Street

• Portions of Tarragona and Chase Street north of Garden Street

Vehicles will be towed if found on the parade route or the additional “no parking” zones when road closures begin.

Street closures will extend to Tarragona Street, DeVilliers Street, and Main Street. These are the same closures implemented at the 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. parade and the Pensacola Christmas parade.

Drivers and pedestrians are reminded to use caution in the area. Heavy parade and float traffic is expected between Wright Street and Main Street, impacting Garden Street, Palafox Street and Spring Street.

For information on road closures, please contact the Pensacola Police Department at (850) 435-1845.

Around the Region

Manny Diaz Jr. Selected by UWF Board of Trustees as University’s Next President

The University of West Florida Board of Trustees selected Manny Diaz Jr. to serve as the University’s seventh president during a special board meeting on January 8. Diaz, UWF’s interim president since July, was announced as the sole finalist on November 22, 2025, following a comprehensive national search. His appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Board of Governors.

“On behalf of the University of West Florida Board of Trustees, I congratulate Manny Diaz Jr. on his selection as UWF’s seventh president,” UWF Board of Trustees Chair Rebecca Matthews said. “During his past six months as interim president, Diaz has demonstrated that he is exceptionally suited for this role through his engagement with students, faculty, staff and the community. We are confident that his leadership will be a catalyst for the University of West Florida to continue to succeed, grow and deepen its impact on the Northwest Florida region and beyond.”

Prior to coming to UWF, Diaz served as Florida’s Commissioner of Education, where he oversaw statewide policy, academic standards and student success initiatives across the K–20 system. His career experience includes work as a classroom teacher, administrator and policymaker.

“I am deeply honored and grateful for the trust UWF and the Board of Trustees has placed in me,” Diaz said. “UWF is a dynamic institution with extraordinary momentum, and I am excited to work alongside our faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners to build upon that success. Together, we will continue to elevate UWF’s impact, strengthen opportunities for students and advance our mission of excellence for the region and beyond.”

UWF’s presidential search process followed Board of Governors Regulation 1.002: Presidential Search and Selection and Section 1004.098 Florida Statutes. The process included gathering stakeholder input; developing a position profile; marketing the position; identifying and screening qualified candidates and recommending a finalist to the Board of Trustees for consideration.

For more information on the UWF Presidential Search, visit uwf.edu/presidentialsearch.

Around the Region

Gulf Winds Welcomes Jose Delgado as Chief Member Experience Officer

Gulf Winds Credit Union is excited to announce that Jose Delgado has joined the Executive Leadership Team as Chief Member Experience Officer (CMXO). In this dynamic role, Delgado will integrate Gulf Winds’ services and support systems to deliver a cohesive experience across all aspects of the member experience, ensuring exceptional service and innovative solutions for all members.

“We are looking forward to having Delgado on our executive team. He is passionate about the member experience, well-regarded by his peers and strives to make a difference in the communities he serves,” Gulf Winds Credit Union President and CEO Daniel Souers said. “His blend of thoughtful leadership, deep experience and ability to articulate vision will support our members and further drive our mission of helping our members and communities succeed financially.”

With over 31 years of experience with financial institutions, Delgado brings an impressive list of skills and strategic ideas to Gulf Winds. Throughout his career, he has cultivated an optimal banking experience for members through leading branch and contact center transformations, enhancing organizational efficiency and fostering data-driven decision-making. Delgado has also attained many notable accomplishments with high ratings from NCUA examiners and maintains strong partnerships with Credit Union Service Organizations.

“I’m proud to join a credit union as deeply rooted in serving its members and the community as Gulf Winds,” Delgado said. “I am looking forward to advancing strategic goals, creating sustainable member growth and helping those in the region unlock financial greatness.”

Delgado has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Marketing and International Business from Saint Louis University and an Executive Master of Business Administration in Marketing and Business Administration from Webster University, both in Missouri. He has also prioritized supporting the community, serving the boards of the Tulsa Area United Way and American Heart Association. His strong commitment to building a healthier, more financially confident community reflects the shared values he will bring to Gulf Winds.

PenAir Credit Union Welcomes Mark Fillers to Commercial Banking Team

PenAir Credit Union (PenAir) is excited to announce the appointment of Mark Fillers as the new Market Executive in Alabama for its Commercial Banking team. This appointment reflects PenAir’s ongoing commitment to enhancing lives and delivering relationship-focused, community-driven banking solutions that empower local businesses and communities to thrive.

Bringing over 20 years of experience in commercial banking and market leadership across South Alabama, Mark will lead the expansion of PenAir’s commercial banking operations throughout the area, partnering with businesses to deliver relationshipfocused lending, local decision-making and tailored financial solutions.

Most recently, Mark served as South Alabama Market President at Renasant Bank and began his banking career in Mobile in 2001. He is a Mobile native and completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Alabama, his MBA through Auburn University’s Executive MBA program and an executive management program at the University of Texas at Austin.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mark to our Commercial Banking team,” PenAir Vice President of Commercial Banking Dave Gooch said. “His deep market experience and commitment to service make him an ideal leader to advance our purpose of enhancing lives. Mark’s values align with PenAir’s dedication to respect, service, and community impact. We’re excited about the growth his leadership will enable for local businesses and the wider community.”

Beyond his professional achievements, Mark is actively engaged in the community, including service with Mitchell College of Business Advisory Board at the University of South Alabama, the Child Advocacy Center, Mobile Chamber and Doulos Partners. He also served in leadership roles at Mobile United, Mobile Area Council - Scouting America, United Way of Southwest Alabama and American Heart Association.

To learn more about commercial lending or financial management services offered by PenAir Credit Union, visit penair.org/ commercial.

UWF Announces 2026 Women in Leadership Conference

The University of West Florida’s (UWF) Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz (AWKO) Center for Leadership will host the 12th annual Women in Leadership Conference on March 12, 2026.

The conference will be offered both in person at the UWF Conference Center on the University’s Pensacola campus and virtually.

“The AWKO Center For Leadership is excited to present our 12th iteration of Women in Leadership, which will showcase service and contributions of servant leaders to better people and their organizations,” AWKO Executive Director Dr. Andrew Del Gaudio said. “The conference is designed to challenge your thoughts, expand your horizons and give you more tools to navigate your day-to-day.”

This conference is designed to support women as they navigate pathways to higher-level leadership roles. Attendees will connect with recognized local leaders to learn strategies for driving their careers through effective leadership, develop communication skills that support advancement and understand challenges women may face in underrepresented fields. The program also offers opportunities to build a strong network of UWF alumni and community leaders.

Tickets for this event will go on sale Dec. 8. In-person tickets are available for $180, and virtual tickets cost $80. Discounts include 10% off for UWF alumni, active duty military and veterans. Parties purchasing 25 or more tickets may receive a 15% discount if tickets are all in-person or all virtual. Please contact continuinged@uwf. edu to arrange your large group ticket purchase. Ticket discounts may not be combined.

For more information about the 2026 Women in Leadership Conference or to register, visit uwf.edu/wilc.

Gulf Winds Credit Union Breaks Ground on New Pensacola Headquarters on Nine Mile Road

Gulf Winds Credit Union recently celebrated the groundbreaking of its new headquarters on Nine Mile Road in Pensacola, Florida, alongside community and business leaders. The event featured remarks from Gulf Winds President and CEO Daniel Souers, Escambia County Commissioner Steven Barry and Pensacola Chamber of Commerce President Todd Thomson.

Since 1954, Gulf Winds has supported individuals, families and local businesses on their financial journeys. As a trusted financial partner in the region, the credit union plays a key role in driving economic growth, strengthening the community and providing financial guidance that moves members forward.

Gulf Winds’ new headquarters will bring its administrative teams together under one roof, creating space to better support a growing membership base. The unified facility will improve

Around the Region

efficiency, enhance teamwork and empower a more innovative, personalized experience for members.

“Breaking ground on our new headquarters is more than a construction milestone—it marks our commitment to serving members and the community,” Gulf Winds Credit Union President and CEO Daniel Souers said. “We’re creating a space where new ideas can take shape, innovative solutions can grow and partnerships can flourish.”

Featuring energy-efficient systems, innovative technology and collaborative, cross-functional workspaces, the new facility reflects Gulf Winds’ long-term investment in its people and its members. The headquarters reinforces the credit union’s values of integrity, care, growth and innovation while supporting its ability to adapt to evolving and expanding member needs.

“It was an honor to participate in today’s groundbreaking ceremony for this fantastic new building. The Greater Pensacola Chamber congratulates Gulf Winds Credit Union and its work to strengthen the fabric of our community,” Pensacola Chamber of Commerce President Todd Thomson said.

Escambia County Commissioner Steven Barry added, “Gulf Winds is a leader of growth and innovation in our community. They consistently take steps to make a positive, lasting impact on their members and others in need. I’m grateful for Gulf Winds’ continued leadership, partnership and service in Escambia County.”

For more information, visit gogulfwinds.com/headquarters or contact Pola Young at pola.young@gogulfwinds.com.

We are in search of the next Pensacola bride, groom or couple to grace the cover

SUBMISSIONS DUE BY March 15 , 2026

If you have recently been married in or around the Pensacola area and have an interest in appearing on the cover of the annual Weddings issue of Pensacola Magazine, visit ballingerpublishing.com/weddings2026 and submit up to three highresolution images of your wedding for a chance to be featured on the next cover!

Editorial-style shots by a professional photographer are preferred. Please include the full name(s) of the bride, groom and photographer. Visit ballingerpublishing.com/weddings2026 for submission guidelines and complete details.

ON THE MARKET a

Real Estate Section

BY THE NUMBERS

A Look at December's Market Highlights

Market Highlights

YTD combined sales totaled for 2025 stand at 9,251, representing a 0.7% drop from the same period in 2024.

Total sales for December 2025 were up 33.2% compared to November 2025, and up 12% from December 2024.

New residential listings decreased by 33% and new condo listings decreased by 12% in November 2025 when compared to November 2024.

Pending sales in December 2025 increased by 2.8% over December 2024, and decreased 4.9% from November 2025.

Five Tips to Upgrade Your Home Office

Hybrid

schedules and remote work have become the norm for many people, which means a functional and inspiring workspace is more necessity than luxury. With the right setup – be it a dedicated room or a cozy corner—your space can boost productivity, spark creativity and make your workday more enjoyable.

Consider these ideas to blend function, comfort and style, and create a home office that inspires creativity and makes you want to sit down and get things done.

Focus on Comfort

The desk and chair are the foundation of any home office. Be sure to build a setup that matches your work style by picking the right height desk (with the proper amount of storage and workspace to complete your tasks) and an adjustable chair with good lumbar support. If you’re at your computer most of the time during the day, an ergonomic keyboard and monitor stand can also make a comfortable difference.

Create a Clutter-Free Work Zone

Incorporating smart storage solutions like shelves, filing cabinets or baskets can help keep your workspace tidy and free of distracting clutter. Desk trays can keep small office supplies organized and within easy reach while maintaining a clean aesthetic.

Add Personality with Decor

Much like the rest of your home, your workspace should reflect your personality and style. Add artwork, decorative accents, plants or a photo wall to bring inspiration and freshness to your office and choose a color palette that promotes positivity and focus, such as soft blues, greens or neutrals.

Layer Functional Lighting

For optimal productivity, combine natural light with task and ambient lighting. If possible, position your desk near a window to capture natural light then supplement your space with a desk lamp for focused illumination and floor lamps, under-shelf lighting or wall sconces to add warmth and depth.

Don’t Forget Acoustics

Distracting noises can negatively impact focus. To absorb sound, use soft furnishings like rugs, upholstered chairs or curtains and consider a white noise machine if you need a more soothing work environment.

Find more ideas to update every room in your house at elivingtoday.com.

ATransform Your Kitchen with Lighting Upgrades

s the heart of many homes, the kitchen is often for much more than cooking. From morning coffee and gathering for family meals after long days at school and the office to entertaining loved ones on the weekend, functional, stylish lighting can make your kitchen truly shine – day or night.

Whether you’re planning a full-scale remodel or simply looking to refresh one of your most-used spaces, even modest lighting updates can enhance its aesthetic appeal and usability. From swapping out lightbulbs to replacing fixtures, adding smart controls and more, these ideas can help you brighten things up.

Add Balance with Layered Lighting

The most well-lit kitchens incorporate three layers of lighting: ambient, task and accent. Ambient lighting, typically from recessed ceiling lights or a centralized light fixture, provides general illumination and sets the tone for the space. Task lighting, such as under-cabinet light strips or a hanging fixture above an island, provides focused light over work zones like the sink, stove or countertops. Finally, accent lights in cabinets, baseboards or backsplash can add depth and drama, for a practical and inviting layered look.

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lightbulbs

One of the simplest ways to upgrade your kitchen–or any room–is swapping old lightbulbs for energy-efficient LED bulbs. From cozy warm whites to bright white and amber

hues, LEDs come in a variety of color temperatures to fit your space. Plus, they typically last longer and use less energy than halogen, incandescent and fluorescent bulbs and they’re often dimmable, giving homeowners complete control over the space’s brightness and mood.

Make a Statement with New Fixtures

A design feature all their own, lighting fixtures like chandeliers or pendants over the kitchen table or center island can instantly elevate your kitchen’s look and feel. For a sleek, modern aesthetic, consider polished chrome finishes; think brass or brushed nickel for warmth; or opt for matte black for stunning contrast. Remember to look for fixtures in finishes that complement your appliances and cabinet hardware to truly bring the space together.

Embrace Smart Technology

Even small updates can make a big difference when it comes to bringing your kitchen into the future. Swapping out old switches with smart options that allow you to adjust brightness throughout the day, schedule your lights to turn on or off automatically and change the color temperature from your smartphone or voice assistant can enhance usability and convenience while reducing energy usage.

Find more ideas to enhance your living spaces at elivingtoday.com.