Living art exhibition at DAAS Co-Op Gallery & Gifts

In the month of August, DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts features a very different type of exhibition, combining the beauty of exotic plants as pieces of natural art, complemented by artworks from the talented Aaron Apsley.
The show is co-hosted by the neighboring Thrifty Garden and owner Richard Molek’s amazing collection of indoor and outdoor specimens. The opening reception is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 7 from 6 to 9:30 p.m., in conjunction with what would normally be the monthly Fort Myers Art Walk. The exhibition will be on display through Aug. 29.
Aaron Apsley is a graduate from the Savannah School of Art and Design. He became interested in botanical illustration while living in New York City. He moved to Southwest Florida since 2019.
“I see them [plants]as exquisite sculptures or three-dimensional masterpieces, with their unique leafs and colors, created by nature itself.” – says Molek, who has a passion for all kinds of plants. “Some of the [plant]species are rare and very dear to me, as I have been growing them for years in my personal collection,” adds the Thrifty Garden owner, who enjoys sharing his love of plants with every visitor.
Congruently, a social distancing-conscious gathering starts at 6:30 p.m., right there at the Butterfly Estates, in the outdoor garden space nestled between DAAS Co-Op and Thrifty Garden. This space, christened Atala Wine & Beer Garden, provides a nature-inspired experience, amongst the butterflies and flowers abundant around the complex. The Atala Wine & Beer Garden is a collaborative project between the shops and a great alternative to the hustle and buzzle of other parts of downtown Fort Myers.
As always, the gallery will be filled with the most beautiful inventory of art, fine crafts, apparel, sculptures, pottery and jewelry, all produced here by the member artists. In addition, all CDC recommendations are enforced during gatherings, including mandatory masks while inside the venue and a limit on the amount of guests inside.
DAAS Co-Op and Thrifty Garden are located at 1815 Fowler St. in the Butterfly Estates complex in Fort Myers. The gallery’s temporary business hours are Friday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More information about the gallery and how to become a member can be found online at www.daascoop.com or by calling 239-590-8645.