Gallery

Welcome

Jane's Art Center, nestled within the charming Canal Street Historic District of New Smyrna Beach, made its debut on the city's thriving art scene back in 2018. From the very beginning, Jane's Art Center set its sights on a distinctive artistic path, with a primary focus on the realm of fine ceramics.

This strategic decision not only showcased the center's dedication to the craft but also enriched the local arts community with a unique offering.

Over the years, Jane's Art Center has grown into a creative haven, drawing artists and enthusiasts alike to explore the boundless possibilities of ceramics and beyond, cementing its place as a treasured cultural gem in New Smyrna Beach.

The Space

The distinctive gallery space represents a range of work from artists from local to national prominence.  Dedicated to learning and creative growth, the heart of Jane's, though, is the clay studio.  With comprehensive facilities and top-notch instructors, the educational opportunities at Jane's offer both beginner and experienced potters the chance to advance their skills in a supportive environment.

January - February Exhibition in Jane’s Feature Gallery: Sticks and Stones by Nancy Newlove McElroy. Interior design concerning wall décor has always interested Nancy Newlove McElroy. Recently, three-dimensional installations became a goal for her. Framed clay relief landscapes have been done and it is now time to try another approach. In 2023 Nancy had an opportunity to observe four clay artists create and talk about their process. Louise Derovalle is a ceramist that builds pod-like sculptures and wall-mounted forms with extremely textured surfaces. The construction process caught Nancy’s attention, and she made a mental note to try something similar. That day arrived in February 2024 as she developed her own concept of wall-mounted clay forms and worked through the process one bump at a time. The learning curve was challenging as she learned through her mistakes.
Nancy designs shapes that work together creating groups of color, textures and patterns that offer choices for installation in various spaces. Building visual interest within the shapes and splashing slips and glazes is exciting and fun. Each clay work is unique and offers eight different hanging options. Putting the puzzle together can work in a variety of ways.
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These clay “stones” have built a road Nancy is proud of. Working through frustrations and solving problems related to clay consistency, drying time, warping, etc. meant she was determined and focused on creating a body of work unlike anything she had seen in the world of instillation art. Being unique and “true to thine own self” is a constant challenge as Nancy continues to learn through observing, listening and feeling the emotions of all that she experiences. She finds gratification in expressing her personal reactions through clay.
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Opening from 4-7pm. Exhibition through February 26. Nancy will lead her Artist Talk on Saturday, February 8, time to be determined. The Hub + Jane’s Members receive a 10% discount on all purchases of artwork throughout The Hub and Jane’s on 1st Saturday.
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Fee: Free and open to the public. Wine and beer available for purchase.

LINK TO PROFILE