Cindy Sturla and Stewart Jones
Open Studio Night
Saturday February 17 from 6-9PM
Gallery on First has been a presence in downtown Sanford since 2005 and has grown as Sanford has grown. Gallery on First is a collective of 8 studios and the artists reside in them and display their work. Each month the artists of one of the studios is highlighted during “Open Studio”, which happens on the third Saturday of the month. In February, watercolor artists Stewart Jones and Cindy Sturla will be the featured artists for their show “Time Stands Still”. Cindy and Stewart joined Gallery on First in 2006, and are the longest residing artists at the gallery. Their paintings capture a moment in time; like a snapshot. It reflects the fleeting sunset, or the child playing peak-a-boo; now years older. A precious moment caught in a painting. It’s a story remembered for the future.
They have both been an active part of the art scene in Florida for over 20 years and have actively promoted watercolor through their individual and collective efforts. Please join them this special Saturday night February 17 for "Time Stands Still.”
Vanessa Valleray
Vanessa Valleray, originally from The Bahamas, is a medical laboratory scientist turned artist, after rediscovering her passion for art. Vanessa spent years working as a medical lab scientist. But like many people, the COVID-19 pandemic challenged her in ways she could never have anticipated. The unpredictability of the virus, long hours, and emotional toll of the work left her feeling burnt out and unfulfilled.
It was in this moment of uncertainty that Vanessa turned back to her love for art. She began creating beautiful pieces in her spare time and soon realized that she found much more joy and fulfillment in her creative pursuits. She decided to take a leap of faith, leaving her laboratory profession behind.
Today, Vanessa is a growing artist, creating beautiful works that reflect her unique perspective and artistic style. She feels grateful to be able to spend her days doing what she loves and hopes that her art inspires others to follow their passions and to embrace the joy that can come from creative expression.
SANFORD PORCHFEST
ART AUCTION
GALLERY OPENING
Live Music - Bid Opening and Art Preview - Merch Sale
Saturday, February 17, 2024 At 5 PM
Sanford Porchfest (SPF) Art Auction Opening & Merch Sale.
Please join the SPF Producers for a special evening of celebrating the arts in Seminole County at the gallery opening of the Sanford Porchfest art auction & merch sale at Jeanine Taylor Folk Art and Gallery On First. Stroll through the gallery, enjoy live music by Porchfest performer Megan Katarina, preview and bid on your favorite piece from the Sanford Porchfest Art Auction, and mingle with friends through local artist's exhibits.
In addition to previewing the charity art auction gallery, you can scoop up select merch items* for sale before the festival.
*Note: not all merch items will be available for sale at this event, be sure to stop back by the merch booth at the 7th Annual Sanford Porchfest from 11:00am-5:00pm on Saturday, Feb. 24th.
Shows with new paintings
Flora & Fauna Art Show
Is at The Falcon,
819 E. Washington St.
Orlando, Florida 32801