Crystal Bacchus has been mesmerized by color since childhood. She started studying design at the age of 11. Her parents helped steer her innate artistry; her mother via her creation of “an ever-blossoming array of stylish outfits,” and her father by wisely advising his talented daughter to enroll in art school. By 13, she was producing artwork with a distinctive, sophisticated look. Crystal earned a degree in graphic design from the International Fine Arts College, now the Art Institute of Miami.

She passionately explores the relationship between color and texture, and she places great importance on achieving the perfect marriage of paper and paint. “I love paper and its various textures,” she says, “and I love the unpredictability of watercolor. You never know what it’s going to do.” In addition to watercolor, she works in ink and pencil, often incorporating into her designs beads and fabric, much of it from Canada, Trinidad, Japan, Africa and several other countries.

 

I first fell in love with art when…It’s not that I fell in love with art – art just started pouring out of me from a very young age – 4 or 5 years old I believe. So art became like breathing it was just something that I had to do.

Three words that best describe my art are…uninhibited, singular, vivid

When I’m creating my art, I AM…translating onto paper my heart musings and thoughts. It’s really a zone that I slip into. It is such a satisfying space to be in.

My legacy in the world of art will be…inspiring joy even if just for a split second.

Other art forms that inspire me are…dance and fashion. I am also obsessed with letterpress printing – I am currently learning to use a Vandercook 4 letterpress.

People should experience this exhibit because…art is for the spirit and soul – this art will be uplifting.

Caron Bowman is a multi-disciplined artist and her work spans many techniques. Rapper Kendrick Lamar in association with Creative Allies showcased her artwork in NYC at the Galapagos Art Space. She emerged as a semi-finalist for the 2012 Beck’s Green Box augmented reality series – which featured the best emerging artists around the globe. In addition to other honors, she has also been profiled by The American Latino Museum, the 2014 and 2013 Los Angeles African American Heritage Guide, fashion photographer Nick Knight’s – SHOWstudio, and the Tom Joyner Foundation.

I first fell in love with art…When I was four drawing on my mother’s walls.
Three words that describe my art…Bright, Colorful and Complex

When I am creating art I AM….Creating art with a spirit, moreover, transforming two-dimensional materials into spiritual substance. My goal is to continue to use the vocabulary of color in order to speak visually in different languages creating a relationship between the un-conscious and conscious mind via abstraction and symbolism.

My legacy in the world of art will be…Creating visually stimulating art pieces in a SoFlo Superflat inspired style and never being afraid of color. Moreover having a great love for drawing…  And continuing to advocate  and promote  local art in my community.

Other art forms that inspire me…To me, all art forms are connected and in my studio practice,  I particularly  like to synergize the elements of dance, music, and theater into my artwork.

People should experience the exhibition because…It will inspire their imagination and it will increase their cultural understanding of art inspired by South Florida.  The experience of art is always active, and in a fundamental sense should be interactive.

What: The Changing Colors of Autumn

A Tropical Perspective

When: Opening reception with artists Sept 24, 4:30 – 8 pm; Exhibit runs Sept 24- 27

Where: The Paint Store at Ronald Shaffer Interiors, 1800 Upland Rd. West Palm Beach, 33409

Cost: Free

Contact: For more information, call

(561) 832-1323 or email asotpb@bellsouth.net