Wellington Art Society Hosts Installation Ceremony 2021

Denise Fleischman - June 19, 2021

The Wellington Art Society’s installation dinner was held Friday, June 11 at Hurricane Dockside Grill with a tropical theme. The new board includes President Laura Jaffe, First Vice President Susan Mosely, Second Vice President Leslie Pfeiffer, Recording Secretary Marcia Greene, Corresponding Secretary Charles Moses, Treasurer Susan Oakes, and directors Lisa Karsai, Faye Ford, Sally Laub and Elaine Webber. Learn more about the organization at www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

A Painting With A Heart - Local Artist Nancy Tilles Honors Beloved Heart Surgeon With Commissioned Portrait

JULY 1, 2021 WELLINGTONINSIDER

The late Dr. Malcolm Dorman, a beloved cardiac surgeon, was honored last month at a special reception at JFK Medical Center in Atlantis. Local artist Nancy Tilles was commissioned to paint a portrait of Dorman, which was unveiled at the event on June 15. Dorman was a world-renowned heart surgeon, adored by his peers and patients alike. As the medical director of cardiac surgery, he founded and directed the Valvular Heart Institute at JFK Medical Center. He was known for his research and pioneering work in repairing mitral valves using minimally invasive techniques.  

Besides his innovative techniques and educational dedication, Dorman also was recognized for his compassion for his patients and earned numerous awards and accolades over the years. Dorman considered the Patient’s Choice Awards in 2012, 2013 and 2014, as well as the Compassionate Doctor Recognition Award in 2013 and 2014, to be among his greatest achievements.

Dorman, who passed away March 26, was dedicated to ensuring that his patients received the best care possible, often staying in a patient’s room long after performing an exhausting surgery, in case he was needed. Despite his incredible talent for saving lives, he remained a humble man who said that it was God who used his hands to work medical miracles.

Tilles, a longtime member of the Wellington Art Society, presented her commissioned oil painting of Dorman at the June reception hosted by the hospital. “I enjoyed painting Dr. Dorman,” she said. “His kind spirit is what I most wanted to capture.”

Tilles took care to present Dorman in a way that showed his unique personality.

“The original picture I received was a group shot taken in an operating room with the large industrial lights behind them,” Tilles said. “The photograph was chosen by his coworkers for the way it highlighted his personality. I isolated him and painted a light blue background reminiscent of the sky with hints of gold to create glow. I am honored that the painting will hang at the cardiac wing of the hospital.”

Tilles is known for her oils and portraits, which hang in public and private collections throughout the country. She exhibits her work in nationally recognized art shows across Florida. Along with her portrait work, Tilles has created bodies of work representing flowers, underwater scenes and tropical art in mural-sized triptychs.

“I learned how to draw and paint by watching my father sketch,” she said. “I have always had a need to create a likeness of a person at their best. Besides painting people, I am presently deciphering patterns in nature and playing with the idea of how we see human form in so many different subjects.”

Tilles is presently teaching painting to adults at Easel Art Supply and will be teaching at the City of Palm Beach Gardens in the future. She is passionate about sharing her love of painting.

Tilles is also an active member of the Wellington Art Society, whose members consist of dedicated professional artists, up and coming artists, art lovers and supporters. The nonprofit charitable organization is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and regional artists to display their artwork in local galleries, interact with other artists and serve the community through their art.

Learn more about Nancy Tilles at www.nancytilles.com. For more information on the Wellington Art Society, visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Wellington Art Society Hosts Pop-Up Gallery At Mall

The Wellington Art Society hosted an Art Fusion Pop-Up Art Gallery from Friday, Oct. 4 through Sunday, Oct. 6 at Live 360 in the Mall at Wellington Green. Artists were available to discuss their artwork, while some artists did demos of their artwork technique. Most of the 75 pieces of artwork were for sale. For more information, visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Wellington Art Society Begins New Season

By Town-Crier Editor - September 20, 2019

The Wellington Art Society started off its new season on Wednesday, Sept. 11 with a meeting at the Wellington Community Center. During the meeting, special guest Maxwell Taylor spoke about his artwork. Taylor demonstrated how he uses Japanese tools, ink and his sketches to make fine works of art. Currently, the group is collecting art supplies to be donated to children in the Bahamas and at Palms West Hospital. For more information, visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org. PHOTOS BY ERIN DAVISSON

Art Society Hosts Annual Dinner And Installation

By Denise Fleischman - June 14, 2019

The Wellington Art Society held its annual dinner and installation ceremony on Friday, June 7 at Hurricane Grill. The outgoing board and some members were recognized for their assistance at club events throughout the year. The new board members include President Carolina King, First Vice President Laura Jaffe, Second Vice President Lara Chapman, Recording Secretary Erica Kyle, Treasurer Faye Ford, Corresponding Secretary Gayle Bernstein, and directors Leslie Pfeiffer, Sandy Axelrod, Susan Mosely and Robin Kasten. For more info., visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Art Society Hosts Reception For Two Exhibits

By Town-Crier Editor - May 17, 2019

On Tuesday, May 14, the Wellington Art Society hosted a reception for its “Art of Spring” exhibit at the Wellington Community Center and “Spectrum” exhibit at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Refreshments were provided by Whole Foods Market during the reception. There were 83 pieces of artwork by 27 artists on display, and many of the artists were there to discuss their work. The art will remain on view for several months, until a new exhibit is installed. For more information, visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org. PHOTOS BY ERIN DAVISSON

Art Society Members Enjoy Metalsmithing Demo

By Denise Fleischman - May 17, 2019

The Wellington Art Society gathered for a meeting on Wednesday, May 8 at the Wellington Community Center. Maria Tritico gave a presentation on making her sterling silver jewelry. Tritico works in metalsmithing, photography and art therapy. To learn more about her work, visit www.mariatritico.com. For more information visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Art Society Presents Scholarships To Young Artists

By Denise Fleischman - April 19, 2019

The Wellington Art Society presented eight art scholarships at its annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, April 10 at the Wellington Community Center. The awards were presented to graduating seniors in Palm Beach County who are planning a college major in visual arts. The evening featured a meet-and-greet, and scholarship recipients showed their artwork.

Art Society Brings Love Of Art To Palms West

By Town-Crier Editor - April 12, 2019

Sharing the love of art with the community is a large part of the Wellington Art Society’s mission, and a new project to bring art to the pediatric unit at Palms West Hospital is a dream come true for Wellington Art Society President Carolina King, as well as many other members. The project got underway on April 4, which was just the beginning of bringing watercolor paint, supplies and crafts to children recovering at the hospital.

“It is a true community effort,” said King, who oversees collecting art supplies for all children in the community with the help of many art society members. “The Junior League of the Palm Beaches reached out to us and donated 50 backpacks filled with art supplies so we could give art to the children who may be too sick to leave their hospital bed. Each month, we are asking members of our business community to sponsor a visit so we can continue to bring art to the children. The community outreach means the world to me after witnessing my mother-in-law undergoing chemo and radiation procedures for almost two years before losing her battle to cancer. I knew I had to do something to help others.”

When an attorney at the law firm where King works heard of the project, he reached out and offered to sponsor the first visit. King said she is looking forward to partnering with others in the community who also want to spread the joy of art to the children. For more information about the Wellington Art Society, visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org. If you would like to sponsor a monthly art visit, or donate art supplies, e-mail presidentofwas@gmail.com.

Edrian Thomidis Presents At Art Society Meeting

By Denise Fleischman - February 22, 2019

The Wellington Art Society held its monthly meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 13 at the Wellington Community Center. Several members brought their artwork for show and tell. The featured artist was Edrian Thomidis with her ceramic sculptures. Sculptures take time to create, so Thomidis brought a video to help describe her artwork.

Wellington Art Society’s Art Fest On The Green

By Callie Sharkey- February 1, 2019

More than 50 artists displayed works featuring every medium imaginable on Saturday, Jan. 26 and Sunday, Jan. 27 when the Wellington Art Society held its 13th annual Art Fest on the Green at the Wellington Amphitheater. Even though the weather did not always cooperate, patrons and artists came out to enjoy this unique experience. For additional information, visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Wellington Art Society’s Art Fest On The Green Returns Jan. 26-27

By Callie Sharkey-January 4, 2019

For the past 12 years, the Wellington Art Society has presented its Art Fest on the Green, putting new and interesting works of fine art, and the talented artists who create them, in direct contact with the public.

Art Fest on the Green is a free event perfect for people of all ages. The Wellington Amphitheater will be home to the 13th annual juried fine art and fine craft show on Saturday, Jan. 26 and Sunday, Jan. 27.

“Art fairs allow people to interact with the artists face to face in a beautiful setting and learn about their creative process, inspiration, techniques, mediums and accomplishments,” explained event organizer Leslie Pfeiffer, a past president and current board member of the Wellington Art Society. “These experiences add to the excitement and joy of owning artwork and having a story or two to share about the artists. Personal contact with the artists cannot be duplicated through a device in one’s hand. We want people to look up from their screens and experience visually and emotionally the artwork and meet the creative artists.”

This year, more than 50 fine artists and artisans from around the nation will participate. In addition to Florida, artists hail from every corner of the country, spanning from California and Michigan to Maine.

The term “fine” when attributed to art means more than just a picture or a figurine. Visual fine art exists for aesthetic and intellectual reasons. It crosses over many different mediums, including watercolor, painting, sculpture and drawing, to name a few.

“The 54 fine artists participating were selected for their creativity, mastery of technique and level of excellence,” Pfeiffer said.

Jamnea Finlayson, owner of the JF Gallery in West Palm Beach, will judge the event, bringing extensive experience to the table. A curator and gallerist, Finlayson serves as a board member for West Palm Beach Art in Public Places, is secretary for the West Palm Beach Antique Row Art & Design District Association and is vice president of the No More Starving Artists Foundation.

After winner selections are finished, an awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, Jan. 26 at 1 p.m. Pfeiffer and Wellington Art Society President Carolina King will present the awards.

While the award ribbons are nice, Art Fest on the Green is all about the artwork.

Some of the artists featured this year work in unique mediums. Tim Carter is an award-winning fine craft woodworker with 25 years of experience. His most recent works utilize both exotic and local woods enhanced with semi-precious stones.

“The natural grain of the wood tells a story about the tree’s original structure,” Carter explained. “The unique properties of all types of wood intrigue me, and the more I learn, the more intrigued I become.”

Jean Willard, another award-winning artist, is a fine art sculptor with a passion for horses and equine-inspired pieces. Her bronze pieces and commissioned sculptures are in private collections and also exhibited throughout the region.

Watercolorist John Bowen describes his work as “realistic expressionism” and is showcasing pieces that depict the Florida lifestyle. With more than 45 years of experience, Bowen is intrigued by history and regularly donates his work to locations dedicated to preserving history, such as the Bonnet House, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens and the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society.

Mixed media artist Lynn Doyal uses techniques ranging from beading and hand stitching to sequins and paint. She strives to connect with audiences.

“The challenge of making work that is fun, regularly engaging and provides the breath in the course of a person’s day means a great deal to me,” Doyal said. “The intricate detail of my mixed media pieces become a surrealistic and surprisingly fun encounter for the viewer, an encounter that remains captivating.”

In addition to fine art, the team at the Art Cellar in Wellington has partnered with the Wellington Art Society to host a “Young at Art” activity tent filled with imaginative and fun projects for children of all ages to complete and take home. There will also be food trucks at the event, and Scott’s Place playground is nearby.

The nonprofit Wellington Art Society will use the funds gathered from sponsors, community partners, donations and artist entry fees to support its programs. An important part of the group’s mission involves community outreach and a successful scholarship program.

“In the past 12 years, we have given out more than $90,000 in college scholarships to creative, talented students pursuing a visual arts degree,” Pfeiffer said.

She hopes that Art Fest on the Green will showcase culture in Wellington and provide a family-friendly platform to bring fine art to the community as a whole.

Art Fest on the Green runs Saturday, Jan. 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The free event will take place at the Wellington Amphitheater, located at 12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd. Visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org for more information.

Whole Foods Reception Honors Bobbin Salisbury

By Denise Fleischman-December 7, 2018

The Wellington Art Society held an artist’s reception for Bobbin Salisbury on Friday, Nov. 30 at Whole Foods Market in Wellington. Salisbury’s artwork was available for purchase and will be on display for several months at the Whole Foods Café. There were door prizes and refreshments. For more info., visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Art Society Reception For ‘Instincts’ Exhibition

By Denise Fleischman-November 30, 2018

A reception was held Tuesday, Nov. 27 at the Wellington Community Center for the Wellington Art Society’s “Instincts” exhibition currently on display. Artwork from 14 artists is included in the exhibition. There were artist demos, a raffle and refreshments. Guests voted for their favorite artwork and a People’s Choice ribbon was awarded. For more information, visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Wellington Art Society Hosts ‘Perspectives’ Reception

October 5, 2018

The Wellington Art Society held an artist reception for its current show “Perspectives” on Tuesday, Sept. 25 at the Wellington Community Center and the Wellington Municipal Complex. The event included a meet-and-greet with the artists, door prizes, raffles and refreshments. Three Dancers From Picasso by Betty Brodie was voted People’s Choice.

Wellington Art Society Kicks Off New Season

September 21, 2018

Wellington Art Society members gathered on Wednesday, Sept. 12 at the Wellington Community Center to kick off the 2018-19 season. Featured artist Nicole Galluccio brought a selection of wearable art, such as purses and shoes that she created. Members made plans for upcoming art receptions and events. Learn more at www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Wellington Art Society Members To Be Featured At Exhibit In Tequesta

September 14, 2018

The Lighthouse Arts Center in Tequesta has invited art societies from Miami to Vero Beach to participate in an exhibition in their galleries.

The Wellington Art Society will have 20 entries, including paintings, sculpture, collage and jewelry.

All artwork will be judged and prizes awarded. The opening reception will be on Thursday, Sept. 20 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Participating Wellington artists are: Roehl Acosta, Sandy Axelrod, Jeanette Childress, Marta Cruz, Donna Donelan, Gail Erikson, Audrey Freeman, Laurie Snow Hein, Patricia Heller, Laura Jaffe, Carolina King, Erica Kyle, Joseph Marcou, Kathy Morlock, Leslie Pfeiffer, Pamela Ross, Marilyn (Bobbin) Salisbury, Rekha Shivdasani, Edrian Thomedis and Jean Williard.

This is always an exciting and innovative exhibition. The public is invited with a small fee at the door. The exhibit will be available for viewing until Oct. 11.

WAS OPEN STUDIO NIGHT - August 16th 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Hello Everyone!

Please join us for our first Open Studio Night at Art Cellar in Wellington, this event is for WAS members only.  Let's get together and have a great time!!!

Wellington Art Society’s New Officers Installed

June 22, 2018

The Wellington Art Society held its annual Installation of Officers and Dinner on Friday, June 15 at the Mayacoo Lakes Country Club. Outgoing board members received recognition and gifts from outgoing President Sandy Axelrod for all of their work during art shows and special events. New board members were sworn in as Axelrod turned over the gavel to incoming President Carolina King. For more information about the Wellington Art Society, visitwww.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Wellington Art Society Reception For Maria Lentine

May 18, 2018

The Wellington Art Society held an artist reception for Maria Lentine on Friday, May 11 at Whole Foods Market in Wellington. Lentine showed her artwork and jewelry, which was available for purchase. The artwork will stay on display at the Whole Foods Gallery for several months. For more info., visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.