Last night’s Third Thursday at CityArts was nothing short of magical as we celebrated the opening of “It’s All About Florida,” a vibrant new exhibition showcasing the beauty, history, and character of the Sunshine State. This show marks the debut of artwork inside the brand-new CityArts Café, a warm and welcoming space that already feels like a natural home for local creativity.
The exhibition features work by Holly Tharp and myself, Heather Dartez, with each piece highlighting iconic Florida imagery—from wildlife and vintage citrus themes to whimsical neighborhood scenes and tropical color palettes. Seeing our work displayed together in this refreshed, modern setting was truly special, and the energy in the room reminded us why the Orlando arts community is so extraordinary.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended the opening, shared a conversation, purchased artwork, or simply stopped by to support the local arts. Your enthusiasm helps keep our creative community thriving, and we are deeply grateful.
If you missed the opening, there’s still plenty of time to stop in!
The artwork will remain on display and available for purchase through mid-December. Whether you're looking to add a new piece to your collection or searching for a unique holiday gift, the CityArts Café is the perfect place to enjoy great art in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Come sip, stroll, and experience Florida through the eyes of two local artists. We hope to see you there!
Artist Bios:
Holly Tharp - From graphic illustration and pop-driven portraiture to textured abstracts and atmospheric landscapes, Holly moves fluidly between styles, materials, and moods. Her work has partnered with the City of Orlando, collaborated with brands like Red Bull, and appeared in 60+ exhibitions. Whether she’s building sharp graphics, painting raw, or gestural figures, Holly follows curiosity over consistency, and that’s the point.
Heather Dartez - Heather Dartez is a Central Florida artist whose work in this series blends vivid color, storytelling, and a deep appreciation for the region’s history, wildlife, and cultural identity. Her art has been featured in over 50 exhibitions, earned awards from the National and Central Florida Watercolor Societies, appeared on festival posters and T-shirts, and extended into children’s book illustration. Most recently, she was commissioned to create the 2025 Dr. Phillips Charities holiday card. Inspired by vintage citrus labels, iconic landmarks, and the charm of local neighborhoods, her paintings turn familiar scenes into joyful, character-driven narratives.
