The Florida Prize in Contemporary Art Is

a WINNer

One of the Orlando Museum of Art’s most popular and diverse exhibits celebrating nine years, the Florida Prize in Contemporary Art is organized to bring new recognition to 10 of the most progressive artists in the State of Florida. Each year, one artist receives a $20,000 award generously underwritten by local philanthropists Gail and Michael Winn.

Artists Range From Emerging To

MID-CAREER, often with distinguished records of exhibitions and awards that reflect recognition at national and international levels. In all cases, they are artists who are engaged in exploring significant ideas of art and culture in original and exciting ways.

Gail and Michael have supported the event since 2017 and underwrite both the Florida Prize in Contemporary Art Award ($20,000) and the People’s Choice Award. It all started when they were approached by former museum director Glen Gentele.

“He asked us if we would like the opportunity to look at it. We did and got excited about it. We consider it our claim to fame here as we [the museum] are known statewide for the Florida Prize. Our curator is also known statewide for this. We were impressed by the whole concept of awarding deserving artists and then having an award that the people choose. Each year we really look forward to it so much, and we are so proud that we can show our friends in the community that we are doing this. We love the museum,” Michael says.

Gail adds: “And also support the art world. Mothers and grandmothers come up to me who have special needs children and they say to me, ‘Thank you so much for doing this. It was so fascinating for my child.’ We are not huge art collectors but we just like the feel of the exhibit. And then reading about the works you really get an understanding about the artists’ thought processes, whether it’s about religion, political views, color favorites, or a passion for photography. The background of their creativity is so eye opening, literally.”

The selected artists present multiple works from recent years or large-scale installations created on-site that give visitors a fuller understanding of their vision and accomplishment. As a survey exhibition, the Florida Prize always brings together artists of diverse backgrounds and varying practices. It is a snapshot of the State’s cultural vitality seen through some of the most compelling work being done here and now.

This year’s artists include: Akiko Kotani, Amy Schissel, Cara Despain, Denise Treizman, Elliot & Erick Jiménez, Magnus Sodamin, MJ Torrecampo, Peggy Levison Nolan, Reginald O’Neal, and Yosnier Miranda.

It’s a very intense process where the museum’s curators spend a year visiting and interviewing artists. Some artists inquire directly, and others are found through connections with art schools and other entities. “They carefully select a vari- ety of art — not just things to fill the walls. People will see there are all different types of art here. They also get the artists’ background stories. And they are not all young, struggling artists. Although for those who are, the idea that we can help start a career is really fulfilling,” Michael explains.

And the process is not only lengthy but prestigious as well. Curators from other notable museums are brought in to make the final winner selection. This year the curator is from the Crystal Bridges Museum of Art in Bentonville, AK, and last year the curator was from The Whitney in New York City.

The highlight of the show is the opening night Preview Party (held June 2) where 600 guests experience food and drink from area restaurants and caterers who present unique dishes inspired by each of the Florida Prize artists. It’s also an opportunity for guests to mingle with the artists, explore the art, and immerse themselves in the best social and cultural mix. Gail and Michael agree that one of the most emotional moments is when the artists are given the opportunity to speak and thank the patrons.

The exhibit will continue through August 2 7. omart.org/exhibitions/2023_florida_ prize_ in_contemporary_art/