by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
The Landing attracted another “Off the Grid” art studio and exhibition space when Elemental Gallery and Studio opened its doors for the first time during the November Art Walk. It’s owned and managed by artist Helen Cowart, who discovered the OTG opportunity when she exhibited her artisan jewelry in the Bee Gallery, also at the Landing.
Elemental’s first show focuses on three photographers:
Robert Jamason is a commercial photographer who layers versions of the same image but in different resolutions to create his own style.
John Kuss lives and works in Jacksonville Beach and was inspired to become a fine art photographer after he saw an exhibit at The Cummer Museum of Art & gardens. He’s exhibiting some of his “skyscapes.”
Matthew Winghart has been a photographer since he received his first camera at age 8. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Dayton in Ohio and has traveled the world taking pictures. Winghart recently opened Print Art Studio in Jacksonville Beach, which specializes in fine art reproductions and photographic printing.
Cowart keeps her kiln in the studio and creates art glass and jewelry fired from a mix of clay and metals like silver and copper. She’s now branching out into larger pieces, including plates and suncatchers.
“I’ve always been an artist,” said Cowart. “I was a graphic designer for 20 years and I decided I had had enough, so I started making jewelry.”
Cowart struck out on her own after exhibiting at Bee Gallery. “I had a different vision. Every artist has her or his own personality. Having all the Off the Grid spaces at the Landing is creating synergy for the arts community,” she said.
Elemental Gallery is in Suite 110 between Hannah & Her Sister and the Nine West Outlet. It’s open 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and by appointment. For details, call 307-1885.
356-2466