Tallahassee is host to a large art community. Just over a year ago I was introduced to Railroad Square Art Park. The park is home to more than 80 studios, galleries and small shops and is the ultimate creative haven of many Tallahassee artists and other small businesses. On the first Friday of every month the park participates in the "First Friday Gallery Hop." It is also home to my favorite contemporary gallery, 621 Gallery. At 621 you can find a variety of contemporary exhibitions, all of which range in styles. If your lucky you will be able to enjoy some good live music by local musicians. Also, indulge in a nice cold beverage...wine, beer and water for those straight edge folks. Definitely check out their website and make a stop down some First Friday to visit 621 and experience the true gift of a grassroots organization right here in Tallahassee.
While attending a First Friday I was introduced to John Lytle Wilson, who is now Artist in Residence at 621. His art is incredibly vibrant and pays homage to animals and robots. The animals have this religious idol look to them. They are almost hypnotizing. The use of such bright colors along with the robots and animals brings back memories of my youth watching Sunday morning cartoons in the 80's. You know, the classics...Transformers, Sea Monkeys, Gummy Bears, Smurfs, etc. His art has been featered in national exhibitions and most recently in Vancouver, British Columbia. This latest piece names Frida 3000 (left) was painted for the Frida Ciento show at the JEM Gallery in Vancouver. From what I understand it is John's first venture into painting humans in combination with his normal style of art. To inquire about purchasing, email the gallery at thejemgallery at yahoo.com or call (604) 879-5366.
For more information on John, his studio, or how to make a purchase, visit his website at http://www.johnlytlewilson.com/. You can find up to date news at his blog http://www.johnlytlewilson.blogspot.com/. You can even befriend him on the phenomenon we all know and love as MySpace at www.myspace.com/johnlytlewilson.
Lastly, here are a few on my favorites of John's pieces:
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