WILTON MANORS, FL – Art Gallery 21 hosted an opening reception for its art installation of new work by Tin Ly, titled Traditional Chinese Artist’s Tools Re-examined, in the Island City Cultural Center (600 NE 21st Court) on Saturday (February 18). Inspired by his childhood memories of traditional Chinese writing tools, Ly’s latest creations include one-of-a-kind clay sculptures for contemplation accompanied by a breathtaking series of small water-medium paintings. “This body of work represents a fusion of the old with a new way to honor the ritual of physical and mental preparedness before making ART,” says Ly. In addition, artists Nga Nguyen and Ellen Blanco offer elements of diversity with their Asian influenced art as a complement to the exhibition including their sculptures, paintings, charcoal drawings and delightful mixed media art.
The artists were all in attendance at the opening reception and Tin Ly was on hand in the gallery on Sunday as well to greet visitors and talk with them. Among the weekend’s guests were Jean Holcomb from the Lynne Warrick Institute at the opening; Fort Lauderdale Mayor and longtime friend of the artist, Dean Trantalis, visited on Sunday afternoon. Other visitors to the exhibit included: Reverend Joseph Spina, OFM; Teen Woon, Architect (who was the principal designer of the recently completed diving platform at the International Swimming Hall of Fame); Claire Garrett, Artist and member of the Broward County Cultural Division Board, and so many more!
Art Gallery 21 is grateful for the support provided by the City of Wilton Manors and the Broward Cultural Division to help this project happen and we owe artist Janet Gold a whole lot of gratitude for helping us to connect to Tin Ly. He is an extraordinary artist and a beautiful human being and we look forward to hosting this exquisite exhibit these next few weeks!
Our volunteers have done an amazing job in construction of the needed structures for this exhibit that were designed by Tin and we would be remiss if we didn’t give them a big THANK YOU! It’s always remarkable what a few dedicated people can do when they join together. Visit Art Gallery 21 and you’ll understand!
The Island City Cultural Center, home to Art Gallery 21, is easily accessible to paid public parking and is 100% ADA compliant. The exhibit will be open free to the public Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 4 to 8 PM and Sunday from 12 to 6 PM through March 12th.
Traditional Chinese Artist’s Tools Re-examined is an extraordinary cultural experience. You may have heard that before from other museums and galleries, but we’re here to say, “IT’S REALLY TRULY TRUE.” You’ve got to see it for yourself.
ABOUT ART GALLERY 21
Established in 2012, Art Gallery 21, Inc. is a Florida-registered 501c3 non-profit organization working in partnership with Wilton Manors Leisure Services Department to bring art and cultural experiences to the Island City. Located in the Island City Cultural Center at 600 NE 21st Court in Wilton Manors, Florida, Art Gallery 21 is a volunteer-based organization. To donate to Art Gallery 21, volunteer during an event or exhibit, or for a general inquiry, please email ArtGallery21WCWM@gmail.com or call/text 954.225.5488. Follow us on Facebook, Google and Instagram.