Celebrating Imagination at the Center for the Arts

The Marco Island Center for the Arts is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated exhibition, "Celebrating Imagination,” featuring a diverse showcase of local artistic talent from Marco Island and Naples. The exhibition will be on display from July 8 to July 30, 2024.

"Celebrating Imagination" aims to highlight the inventive perspectives and unique visions of its participating artists. Showcasing a rich tapestry of mediums including paintings, photographs, sculptures, clay works, and textiles, the exhibition promises to offer a stimulating visual experience. Featured artists include Terry Carter, Garry S. Wheeler, Heidi Lewis Coleman, Hilda Champion, Joel Shapses, and Pat Kumicich, each renowned for their distinct techniques and creative prowess.

"We are excited to present 'Celebrating Imagination,' an exhibition that pushes the boundaries of conventional artistry," said Hyla Crane, Executive Director of Marco Island Center for the Arts. "This collection celebrates the artists' ingenuity and showcases their ability to captivate and inspire through their work."

The selected artists bring a wealth of creativity and expertise, distinguished by their vibrant palettes and innovative approaches. Their pieces are set to engage viewers with their depth and imagination, offering a glimpse into the diverse artistic landscape of Southwest Florida.

Terry Carter’s acrylics and use of bold colors are creations from actual places and visions that come from his own imagination. 

Joel Shapses is a sculptor for all seasons which includes bronze, fused glass, metal, and aluminum. As a sculptor, his inspiration comes from a variety of areas. According to Joel, he is continually exploring new materials for his creative process.

Hilda Champion is a German/American fine art photographer now residing in Naples, and her images are “based on a true fantasy.” 

Garry Scott Wheeler is a self-taught abstract acrylic artist. He has traveled to over 100 countries, seeking inspiration for his colorful and bright paintings. “The heart and soul of my paintings emanate from vividly seeing colors and shapes in my daily life,” said Wheeler.

Heidi Lewis Coleman’s artwork explores the intricate relationship between nature and artistic expression. Nature is both her muse and mentor, and Heidi creates her mixed media pieces using thin washes of acrylic paint, pastels, and tissue, giving that ephemeral finish quality.

Pat Kumicich's Art Dolls are eclectic, whimsical, and part social commentary and self-portraits.

In La Petite Galerie, Marit Woods will be featuring her work entitled “Layers: Afro-Latino Unveiled,” presented by ARWAY Bags, which brings together a stunning collection of wearable art and meticulously crafted bags that reflect the vibrant traditions and contemporary expressions of Liberian craftsmanship and Mexican textile artists. Each piece in the exhibit tells a story, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design elements to create one-of-a-kind works of art.

Marit Woods is originally from Libera and started ARWAY in Liberia in 2010, where she began designing her signature ARWAY bags and accessories. Woods originally made the bags for herself, but the hobby manifested into a business.