Venvi Art Gallery is pleased to present "Subtropical: Living in a Sinking State", a solo exhibition by artist Sam McCoy. This exhibition will showcase over 30 of her original paintings. "Subtropical: Living in a Sinking State" will be on display from July 5th to August 18th, with its opening reception on July 5th from 5-8pm.

"Subtropical: Living in a Sinking State" showcases over 30 of McCoy’s original paintings, depicting scenes from Florida featuring brightly colored and loosely painted contemporary landscapes. Her works span from paintings she has created "en plein air", local flora and fauna, and roadside gardens or tourist areas. According to McCoy, Florida is known for its tropical picturesque sunsets, springs, and theme parks. However, the reputation of the state is sometimes a bit shadier. She enjoys thinking about the concept of an "exotic paradise" and how it has influenced today’s culture. She is incredibly grateful for the beautiful landscape she is privileged to live in, but some days she feels an impending sense of doom as climate change affects the state and its landscape.
Sam McCoy is a contemporary painter whose work focuses on the interaction between the natural and hyperreal landscapes of Florida. Her works pull back the metaphorical curtain of the carefully curated image of Florida and its tourist destinations. She depicts many of the flora and fauna found in the state of Florida in her works. As an artist, McCoy is inspired by the vibrant colors used in citrus packing labels, as well as artists like Martin John Heade who paint majestic skies in the Hudson River School style. She also selects bits and pieces of other landscape paintings that capture her attention.

McCoy earned her BFA in Drawing and Painting from the University of Central Florida. She later earned her MFA at Florida State University, where she also briefly was an adjunct instructor in drawing, painting, and design. She also received a Plein Air Winner award from St. Mark’s Wildlife refuge. Currently, McCoy is the Senior Artist Programs Manager and Wildlife Artist at the Thomasville Center for the Arts, where she collaborates with artists and designers in curating their exhibitions to the public.

"Subtropical: Living in a Sinking State" will be open from July 5th to August 18th, with its opening reception on July 5th from 5-8pm. Venvi Art Gallery is located at 2901 East Park Avenue Tallahassee, FL 32301. For more information about the exhibition, please visit www.venviartgallery.com.


Artist: Sam McCoy