VERO BEACH — The new exhibit, Memories of Old Florida at Lighthouse Art and Framing, 1875 14th Ave. in Vero Beach, brings Florida artist Ron Van Sweringen back to his roots, eliciting a seminal period in his life.
For over 30 years artist Ron Van Sweringen has created striking images on canvas that have been in the collections of museums, galleries, collectors’ homes and even the Reagan White House.
Now he brings his career full circle with a stunning exhibition at Lighthouse Art and Framing Gallery in Vero Beach. Van Sweringen’s work will be featured at the gallery through November.
Hailing originally from Virginia, he has had a love affair with Florida since 1954 when, as an 18 year old novice, he was stationed at Key West on the USS Bushnell.
Those memories, eternally fixed in his mind’s eye are the inspiration for this show which will last throughout the month.
Mostly known for his large abstract paintings (currently featured at the Menello Museum in Orlando) Van Sweringen had recently felt the powerful urge to get back to his roots and began painting in the Impressionist style he had mastered years before.
This exploration has led to a burst of creativity and paintings that virtually burst off the canvas with blazing color. These stunning new paintings have a primitive feel and evoke works by Rousseau, Matisse and even Grandma Moses.
For this exhibition Van Sweringin has also released a series of “artist enhanced” giclee prints based on the original paintings. The digital prints have been reworked by the artist making each a unique and individual work that can stand on its own.
Lighthouse Art and Framing is the most complete art center in Indian River County featuring classrooms, workshops, gallery, custom framing, art supplies, books and magazines. A complete class and workshop schedule is available.
For more information, call Tammy Torres at (772) 567-2212 or email lighthousegalleryandevents@gmail.com.
