ST. AUGUSTINE, Florida (April 11, 2024) – With 100 years of history in the books – or on the canvas – the St. Augustine Art Association (STAAA) is celebrating its centennial with an art show spanning the century. Reflections explores the storied history of the STAAA by featuring works from past and present artists. One of the longest operating art associations in the nation, it was founded in 1924 and comprised of members, some who helped change the course of art in the nation. These artists were forward thinkers who saw the importance of incorporating diversity into the organization. The exhibit will be hosted at the St. Augustine Art Association, 22 Marine Street in St. Augustine, and online at staaa.org from May 3rd through June 2nd.
“When I look at the artwork in our Permanent Collection and at the art we have on our walls today, it’s obvious that St. Augustine is, or rather has been for a long time, a wellspring for creative talent,” says Jennifer Flynt, Executive Director of STAAA. “I am always shocked, and at this point I shouldn’t be, by the quality and diversity of the artwork that comes through the gallery each month. The artists here in St. Augustine were once called ‘The Lost Colony’ and I think it’s time that notion of St. Augustine’s art being lost or forgotten gets changed. We’re pleased to host this exhibit that showcases some of these past artists and reflects on the quality and depth we have today.”
The exhibit will feature contemporary works alongside historic pieces from the STAAA permanent collection. These include images by photographer F. Victor Rahner, who was a charter member of the STAAA’s 1924 original group and pioneer in color photography; Elizabeth Warren, who produced beautiful etchings, but was known professionally as E.B. Warren, to disguise her gender; and her husband, Tod Lindenmuth, who was moved to capture the landscapes and beaches of Northeast Florida; and an artist and patron to Flagler College, JoAnn Crisp-Ellert. These are just a few of the pivotal figures in the association’s long history. Artists of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds participate in STAAA exhibits, revealing the depth of creativity and talent in Northeast Florida. The Call for Art will become available in mid-April, with online entries due by Monday, April 29th. Awards for Artistic Excellence will be presented during the exhibit opening on Friday, May 3rd. For the information and exhibit updates, visit here.
ABOUT ST. AUGUSTINE ART ASSOCIATION – The St. Augustine Art Association (STAAA), located at 22 Marine Street in downtown St. Augustine, Florida, is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting excellence in the arts since 1924. STAAA supports the vibrant arts community in St. Augustine and preserves its rich artistic heritage and culture. Through exhibitions, lectures, workshops, educational programs, and outreach, STAAA fosters a creative and accessible environment for artists of all backgrounds and skill levels. Their permanent collection includes works by the founding members, known as the ‘Lost Colony’ artists. The gallery is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 12pm to 4pm, and admission is free. STAAA programs and exhibits, including Reflections, are sponsored in part by grants from the St. Johns County Tourist Development Council, the St. Johns County Cultural Council, and the Community Foundation of Northeast Florida. For more information, visit www.staaa.org, and follow along on social media @staugartassoc
