MOAS Blog

2020 was at best a challenging year for many reasons, but COVID-19 ultimately caused a worldwide shift that touched all of us in one way or another. For Brandon and Robyn, 2020 was the year they wanted to get married despite whatever difficulties might affect their plans.

Our recent exhibition "In the Style of the Emperor" included a print titled “DECORATION DU FEU D'ARTIFICE DUNNE PAR LA VILLE DE PARIS” (A DECORATION OF FIREWORKS BY THE CITY OF PARIS) which shows the set-up location for an elaborate fireworks display given on the occasion of the marriage of Napoleon to his second wife Marie-Louise. Firework shows like this were immensely popular at the time and were the result of centuries of development. In honor of the fireworks displays we’ll all be seeing on the 4th of July we’ve decided to examine the history of fireworks displays through the lens of this piece.

One of Florida's preeminent artists who is in museum and in prominent private collections around the world, Dean Mitchell captures mostly unseen views such as beautifully worn and weathered barns off rural back roads as well as friends, family, and neighbors with watercolor strokes that seem timeless, quiet, and eternal. With his unique and award-winning style and talent, he honors his subjects - be they deserted farmscapes...

Sara Pedigo is a North Florida painter who seemingly unpretentious views of her home and immediate personal environments have brought her recognition and awards nationally and internationally. She grew up in the South after receiving her MFA in Painting from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, in 2007. She is currently a Professor and Department Chair of Visual and Performing Arts at Flagler College...