The Mattie Kelly Art Center Galleries at Northwest Florida State College is delighted to host the Thirty-Second Annual Emerald Coast National (ECN) Juried Fine Art Exhibition. This prestigious event features the creative expressions of eighteen artists, ranging from promising newcomers to seasoned art faculty from across the United States. Initially a regional showcase, the Emerald Coast National has expanded its reach, now including numerous Florida artists, underscoring its evolution into a prominent national exhibition.

This year's exhibition was curated by guest judge Sarah Knobel, a Professor of Art and Co-Chair of Digital Media and Film at St. Lawrence University. She faced the formidable task of selecting from over 300 submissions by 117 artists. Her choices reflect a unified theme that the MKAC Galleries are eager to unveil. The ECN remains committed to supporting artists by offering financial and educational opportunities, nurturing the growth of educators and students, and engaging the community in enriching experiences. We warmly invite everyone to join us in celebrating the rich history and promising future of the arts at our opening event.

Pareidolia by Dana Donaty

In conjunction with the ECN, we are excited to present "Pareidolia," a solo exhibition showcasing Dana Donaty's expansive, maximalist paintings created between 2000 and 2020. Donaty, an acclaimed international artist, boasts over fifteen public art installations and numerous exhibitions worldwide. She earned her Master of Fine Arts from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. "Pareidolia" delves into themes of freedom and equality, featuring larger-than-life human figures set in a whimsical realm populated by tiny, fantastical creatures.

Event Details

The opening event is slated for Thursday, September 5, 2024, from 6 to 8 pm. Attendees will enjoy an evening filled with food, music, chalk art, and contemporary art, with DJ Spinzy providing the musical backdrop. The event will also include an awards ceremony. All programming and events at the MKAC Galleries are free and open to the public.

Exhibition Dates and Gallery Hours

The ECN 32 exhibition will be on display from September 5 to December 12, 2024, while "Pareidolia" will remain open until February 3, 2025. The MKAC Galleries welcome visitors Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and 90 minutes before most Mainstage and Sprint Theater performances.

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