KROMA presents "The Beast" exhibit

On Tuesday, February 3, a wonderfully diverse collection of artists and patrons gathered at KROMA Art Gallery on Grand Ave in West Grove for the opening of The Beast exhibit. The exhibit runs through February 28.

The works of the artists are intended to explore the cooperation and collision of the unseen forces that result in creativity and growth. As writers, painters, musicians...even scientists, we have all experienced the ebb and flow of insight, energy and production. KROMA interestingly refers to this collection of dynamics as The Beast, sometimes quiet and other times roaring and surging with obstacles, growth and personal transformation.

The midweek event was well attended by the arts community from the Grove and beyond.

JS Rashid, executive director of the Collaborative Development Corporation, gives an opening welcome to gallery patrons.

Hundreds of handmade clay wishbones hang above the entrance to the gallery.  Contributors to the fundraiser receive wishbones to commemorate their contribution to support KROMA'S community outreach.

KROMA resident artist Jake Johnson, left, reads under the view of his Whistling Hulk, painted in a tongue-in-cheek style to refer to the classic The Whistling Boy by 19th century painter Frank Duveneck.  Visiting artist Susana Falconi, right, stands next to her striking Lion, painted on a resin surface applied over canvas.  Even more striking is her brilliant Tiger, which we won't show you here to keep you curious enough to visit the piece yourself.  

Coconut Grove's Earth Whisperer artist Uta, stands with her pencil drawing (top) taken from the formations she observed when colorful waxes/oils spread across a container of water she was using.  Below is what happens when her pencil starts moving without forethought while directed by the inner recesses of her creative mind. 

Spoken word artist Rebecca "Butterfly" Vaughn captivates her audience with a dynamic oral presentation.

KROMA is located at 3670 Grand Ave, Coconut Grove, 33133.  Regular gallery hours are noon to 7pm Wednesday through Saturday.  

Story and photos by Peter Johann Studl