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Gallery Opens Gift Boutique, New Exhibit

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By SCOTT E. SMITH

The Suncoast News

Published: December 19, 2008

NEW PORT RICHEY - Progress Energy Art Gallery, in historic downtown New Port Richey, is a one-stop shop for the holidays and has coordinated several events to make shopping easy.

The first is "Baubles, Bangles and Bling," an exhibit of handmade jewelry by Cyndie Smith, a local designer. The exhibit opened with an artist's reception and will continue through Jan. 23.

Smith is a former health care executive who is now a silversmith.

"I let the metal tell me what it wants to do and the results are very interesting. I have learned to listen," the New Port Richey resident said.

She produces big, bold organic designs that make a statement about the women who wear her jewelry.

Working with metal is Smith's preference, but she enjoys molding all kinds of materials to make her jewelry art. She also produces simpler, smaller pieces using handcrafted metal, found objects and repurposed objects.

Smith launched her new "Strong Women" jewelry with this exhibit. The series consists of pieces inspired by and named after fictional and mythical female figures such as Mother Nature, Isis and Athena.

As a gallery member, Smith formed the Wearable Arts Group, which meets monthly. "There are many talented jewelry, fiber and other wearable-art artists in this region," Smith said. "I wanted to bring them together in synergy to promote our artwork and let everyone know we are here."

The Wearable Arts Group meets every fourth Thursday of the month at 2 p.m. in the gallery, 6231 Grand Blvd. The meetings are free and new members are welcome. In addition, Smith will instruct a jewelry-making class beginning Feb. 5 at the gallery.

In conjunction with the opening of "Baubles, Bangles and Bling" the gallery will open its holiday gift shop, which will include small original pieces of artwork for less than $30.

"In light of the poor economy, shoppers can find inexpensive jewelry, books, glassware, ornaments, home decor items, cards, CDs and the 2009 Gallery Art Calendars and much more," said Karren Tolliver, gallery director.

All the items have been donated by gallery members and are handcrafted, unique pieces of art.

The Progress Energy Art gallery is a community gallery that was opened by the not-for-profit Greater New Port Richey Main Street with a grant from Progress Energy Art Gallery to encourage the growth of art and culture in downtown New Port Richey.

FOR INFORMATION

To contribute to the gallery or for information, go to www.nprgallery.com or call (727) 848-6500.

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