Two Exhibits Open Jan 20 at Mennello Museum

January is an exciting time for the Mennello Museum of American Art and Crealdé School of Art.  Both have been working on new exhibitions culminating in big openings on Friday, January 20.  The Mennello will celebrate the opening of Style & Grace: Masterworks of American Art from the Collection of Michael A. and Marilyn L. Mennello and William H. Johnson: An American Modern.  A special highlight of the evening will be the unveiling of a bronze statue of Mrs. Marilyn Mennello. Crealdé School of Art will honor Missionary Mary Proctor with the opening of The Art of Missionary Mary Proctor.  With careful planning, you can catch two openings in one night!

In the Tuilleries Garden, Paris by Nelson Bickford, circa 1881, oil on board. Collection of Michael A. Mennello. Style & Grace: Masterworks of American Art from the Collection of Michael A. and Marilyn L. Mennello On view January 20 - March18          For more than 30 years, Michael and Marilyn Mennello collected not only Earl Cunningham paintings but also masterworks from prominent American artists working in the United States and France in the 19th and 20th centuries during the American Impressionist movement. More than 50 works from their personal collection will be on display, including those by Robert Henri, George Bellows, John White Alexander, Henry Salem Hubbell and Milton Avery. This original exhibition is being curated by museum director Frank Holt. On opening night, don't miss the unveiling of the bronze statue of Mrs. Marilyn Mennello, created by Orlando-based sculptress Laura Dobbs. The opening reception is from 6-8 p.m. Friday, January 20; Free to the public.

Miss Pinky, painting on tin by Mary Proctor. The Art of Missionary Mary Proctor On view January 20 -April 21      Tallahassee-based Missionary Mary Proctor is a self-taught African-American artist who has exhibited her highly distinctive work nationally.  Her artwork incorporates found objects into paintings and three dimensional works, largely inspired by Bible scripture and other life lessons.  The exhibition includes work from Mary's personal collection as well as from that of the Mennello Museum of American Art.       Opening reception 8 to 9:30p.m. on Friday, January 20 at the Hannibal Square Heritage Center.