Art exhibit celebrates Boca Raton’s centennial

Pictured is artist Sonia Giusto’s Tropical Pineapple, part of the upcoming exhibition Reflections of a Century: Celebrating Boca Raton’s 100 Years through Art. [Photo by Sonia Giusto]

A free art exhibition showcasing the past, present and future of Boca Raton is set to open at the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s main gallery in downtown Lake Worth Beach. Featuring the work of 13 Palm Beach County artists, “Reflections of a Century: Celebrating Boca Raton’s 100 Years Through Art” will run from Jan. 31 through March 29.

The exhibition weaves together historical artifacts and contemporary art to explore the evolution of the city. Artists such as Bob Birkenes, Margot Carr, Jennifer Fisher and Ralph Papa contribute works celebrating architecture, culture and community, alongside past photographs and paintings curated by the Boca Raton Historical Society.

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“This exhibition provides a museum-quality juxtaposition between past and present, offering both a look back and a vision forward,” said Jessica Ransom, the Cultural Council’s director of artist services and curator. “It’s an innovative way to celebrate Boca Raton’s 100-year journey.”

Pictured is artist Ralph Papa’s Tower at Mizner Park. [Photo by of Ralph Papa]

The exhibition includes iconic imagery of Boca Raton’s development, such as Addison Mizner’s architectural designs, the Japanese Yamato Colony and the Pearl City neighborhood. These elements capture the city’s transformation from a railway farm town into an internationally renowned resort destination.

“Boca Raton is a place of vision and resilience,” said Susan Gillis, curator of the Boca Raton Historical Society. “From Mizner’s bold dreams to the diverse communities that have shaped its history, this exhibition tells the story of how those dreams have been realized over the last century.”

The exhibition not only honors Boca Raton’s legacy, but also highlights the ongoing contributions of local artists. “This is a rare opportunity to celebrate the city’s vibrant arts scene while paying homage to its rich history,” said Dave Lawrence, the president and CEO of the Cultural Council. “It’s a journey through a century of art and culture, celebrating the beauty and significance of this Palm Beach County gem.”

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The exhibition in the Robert M. Montgomery Jr. Building at 601 Lake Ave. will be open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. An opening reception Thursday, Jan. 30, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. will offer the chance to meet the artists and learn more about their works. Register for the free reception at www.palmbeachculture.com.

On Feb. 1 at 2 p.m., Susan Gillis will host a presentation about Boca Raton’s history at the Cultural Council.

“Reflections of a Century” promises to be both an artistic and educational experience celebrating the spirit of Boca Raton.