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Local Artist Unveils ‘Florida Water’ Exhibition

Artwork inspired by Florida's waterways and cultural diversity displayed at the Florida Water exhibition.

News Summary

Mado Smith presents his latest multimedia exhibition ‘Florida Water’ at the Casselberry Sculpture House, showcasing over 100 pieces that explore the Floridian experience through vibrant colors and bold imagery. Smith invites the community to connect with their personal memories of Florida while highlighting the state’s unique character and cultural nuances. He will also host a concert during the exhibition, further enhancing the immersive experience for attendees.

Casselberry, Florida – Local artist Mado Smith is set to unveil his latest multimedia exhibition titled “Florida Water” at the Casselberry Sculpture House. This intimate collection explores themes of the Floridian experience, memory, and grief, showcasing over 100 pieces that have been meticulously prepared over recent months.

Smith describes “Florida Water” as a playful nod to both the state’s literal waterways and the idea of a fragrance. This exhibition seeks to guide audiences through their personal memories and dreams, allowing them to connect with their own experiences of the Sunshine State. With vibrant colors, bold brushstrokes, and dreamlike imagery, Smith’s artwork embodies the natural beauty of Florida as seen through the eyes of its residents.

The exhibition derives inspiration from Florida’s unique character and wild identity, contrasting the typical tourist perspective. Smith emphasizes the delicate balance between the state’s untamed nature and modern infrastructure, aiming to bring attention to both aspects through his visual art. His works often depict human figures and animals interacting with the surrounding environment, set against vibrant and dynamic backdrops.

The installation also features large-scale charcoal tapestries that contribute to an immersive and humid atmosphere within the Sculpture House. Some pieces take a whimsical approach to Florida’s darker cultural elements, drawing on classic monster imagery to reflect the state’s blend of sunshine and shadow. Smith highlights the acceptance of these nuances within Florida culture, which often embraces its more macabre aspects.

Mado Smith, originally from Lake Mary, brings a personal touch to his work as he reflects on his journey back to Central Florida. After spending nearly 20 years abroad while attending the College of Charleston, he returned to Florida in late 2024. On returning, he applied for an artist grant from United Arts Central Florida and was successful. The process of finding a suitable venue for his exhibition was fraught with challenges, including losing a few locations before securing the Sculpture House—a venue that holds personal significance as it sits directly across from his late grandfather’s automotive shop.

Smith indicates that his return to Florida has facilitated a healing process and sparked several creative breakthroughs. In addition to the visual art on display, Smith will be hosting a concert on June 21 at the Sculpture House, where he will perform selections from an upcoming album. His musical influences are diverse, ranging from classic Americana to contemporary R&B, as he aims to innovate across genres. The concert, along with his exhibition, is part of his residency’s commitment to foster community and human connection.

Smith is also a co-founder of the Circle Square Triangle Collective, an organization dedicated to supporting Central Florida artists. He envisions the expansion of his residency into an annual showcase that includes other local talents, encapsulating a desire to work in an interdisciplinary manner that merges music with visual arts. By creating spaces for artistic interaction, Smith hopes to provide transformative experiences for audiences, encouraging them to engage deeply with both art forms.

The exhibition “Florida Water” at the Casselberry Sculpture House invites the community to explore the complexities of life in Florida, integrating personal experiences with artistic expression. As Smith continues to create within the Central Florida region, he remains focused on providing meaningful artistic experiences that resonate with both local residents and visitors alike.