The Sydney and Berne Davis Art Center is showcasing the artwork of renowned visual artist and entrepreneur David Acevedo in the Grand Atrium in May. The opening reception for his collection entitled Divine Hypocrisy is scheduled for Friday, May 5 from 6 to 10 p.m. in conjunction with Fort Myers Art Walk. The exhibition will be on display through May 25.
David Acevedo is considered one of Southwest Florida’s most prominent artists. Since his arrival in the area in 2000, he has been crucial to the city’s cultural growth through his art, proposals, business accomplishments and event coordinating. Acevedo is one of the co-founders of the popular Fort Myers Art Walk (which started in 2008). He is the founder of DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts, which houses over 25 local artists and operates as the only cooperative gallery in the city, the Union Artist Studios and most recently, the Arts & Eats Café – two other unique concepts promoting local artists in Southwest Florida.
Divine Hypocrisy is yet another impressive collective of pictorial stories, coming from the deepest parts of the artist’s intellect. Acevedo gravitates toward symbolism and is meticulous with the portrayal of his subjects, yet the messages are most times hidden. “I am a rare species, who can be introverted and extroverted at times. Much like the Florida weather,” says the artist presumably joking, but clearly not. “I want to tell a million stories and I do while in the creative process, then I rest my soul. Once the piece is signed, it is up to anyone who stands in front to interpret, assume or just wonder,” adds Acevedo. Regarding these recent pieces, Acevedo has noticeably incorporated more elements alluring to his homeland of Puerto Rico. With pieces like “Garita de Vida,” he proposes a nostalgic scene of a lonely plantain bunch visible through the small window of a large garita (sentry/observation box) like the ones found in the fortresses of Old San Juan.
During the opening reception, supporters of the Flowers for Ana project will see their pre-purchased paintings from the collection for the first time. Acevedo launched this project earlier this year in honor of his late mother, and to connect with the audience in a more personal way.
The Sidney Berne Davis Art Center is located on First Street in downtown Fort Myers. For additional information, visit www.SBDAC.com.
