Going Coastal: The Lowkylzart Collection

The Lowkylzart Collection has gathered 18 local artists to introduce 30 new works as a reflection of Seaside and the beaches beyond at 25 Central Square in Seaside from June 1 – July 31. Featuring the works of Marti Schmidt, Sue and Charles Gray, Susan Lucas, Melanie Moore, John Murphy, Ana Simpson, Russell Ferris, Mary Zahner, Renee Broxson, Jenna Varney, Patti Overholt, Melissa Mercer Brown, Shelley Blackmarr, Polli Youngbeck, Donnelle Clark, Marian Pacsuta, Joey McKenna, Arlene Newsome, Steve Wagner, Lori Drew, Yvette Leihgerber, and Stacia Nicole. “Going Coastal,” showcases the natural beauty of northwest Florida. Curated by Lori Drew, the show terrain is ideal for those wishing to escape the sun while still enjoying the beauty of the native surroundings frozen in time through oils, acrylics, watercolor, resin and mixed media.

About The Lowkylzart Collection

In early 2015, Lori Drew had aspirations for a new venture and conceived Lowkylzart (locals’ art). “The idea for the project came after I became involved in the art scene in Walton County. Everywhere I went in our art world, I met extremely talented women and men who had the passion to create, workshops for learning, networks to stay in touch with festivals and events, but they wanted more places to showcase their work where potential buyers might find them.”  Drew, herself, was one of the artists, but her focus is what she can do for the collective whole. “I saw a need and decided to try to help fulfill that need.” The donation to charities part of it came from the pay it forward movement. “The artists I meet recognize how blessed they are to be able to do what they love and they gladly give back.” The idea of Lowkylzart is designed to benefit everyone — artists, businesses and local charities – and Drew scouts any space that will function as a long-term gallery or pop-up store.As the dream of developing South Walton into an art destination expands, Lowkylzart is partnering with team players to seek out spaces of all shapes, sizes and locales for temporary and long-term art installations, dreaming and planning for unique ways to make more art available to more people. Drew has partnered with Emerald Coast Theatre Company, Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast, Dr. Stephen Phlaum’s office, Blue Title and most recently Anne Hunter Galleries. And so far, the strategy has worked beautifully. “Expanding the concept to other venues is going to take a team of people who want to make it happen,” says Drew.