This A&H curator-guided gallery tour offers a deep dive into the current exhibition A Return to Espero, from its conception through creation to the decisions that determine its presentation. We’ll begin the evening with a 45-minute tour led by our Chief Curator Dan L. Hess followed by conversation with complimentary food for the rest of the evening! Bring a friend, a date, or come by yourself to make new friends who share your interest in the arts.
Admission, to this event is FREE! However, donations of any size are gratefully accepted with your order or at the event, in order to support our many free community programs!
For more information about our current exhibition A Return to Espero:
A Return to Espero unveils the profound metamorphosis of our founder, J. André Smith, whose near-death experience served as a catalyst for artistic reinvention. This exhibition chronicles the profound personal journey underlying the creation of the avant-garde haven of the Research Studio, known today as the Maitland Art Center. On display for the first time publicly is an intimate collection of personal letters exchanged with his dear friend, philanthropist Mary Curtis Bok, many of which were illustrated by Smith himself. These artifacts along with a wide array of his previously unseen art illuminate themes of resilience, friendship, and the transformative power of artistic expression. Smith and Bok’s correspondence stands as a testament to their shared vision and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic exploration in Florida.
This evening event is presented during our monthly Last Wednesday hours, when we open our gallery free of charge with a cash bar from 5:30-8pm. Learn more here.
