The Florida Prize in Contemporary Art 2024

Posted on by The Wandering Art Historian

I feel I need to be honest and upfront before delving further into this post, so consider this a “disclaimer,” of sorts.

I have some big feelings about the Orlando Museum of Art and a certain high-profile exhibition, the ouster of its executive director, the mismanagement of its board, a lack of transparency with the public, and the subsequent handling of multiple lawsuits. Famous (infamous?) last words of a certain wandering art historian? Perhaps, but it is a true statement nonetheless. That said, I don’t want this post to focus on the OMA at all. I want to celebrate the talented artists it is currently featuring because they deserve all the praise.

I recently put all my big feelings aside to view this year’s Florida Prize in Contemporary Art exhibition and I’ll admit I was a bit relieved. The artists chosen were bold, creative, daring, confrontational and determined to make an impact on the world with their work. It ignited a tiny spark of hope that the OMA had not completely lost its way. I was also pleasantly surprised by the fact that it was the single busiest day for attendance I have ever personally witnessed not connected with a festival, event, or free admission opportunity.

Going forward, this post will focus on the standout artists of this year’s Florida Prize in Contemporary Art.

Hai Van (aka Boy Kong), “Skin of a Tiger”

Hai Van, “Spring Chrysanthemum”

Sheila Goloborotko, “Now Our Minds Are One”

Sheila Goloborotko, [you] + [me] series

Mona Bozorgi, “Wreath”

“Wreath” detail

“Wreath” detail

“Wreath” detail

Njeri Kinuthia, “Hail Reverend Njeri”

Njeri Kinuthia, “Nyumba”

“Nyumba” detail

“Nyumba” detail

Jason Seife, “Quiet Mouth, Loud Hands” installation

Jason Seife, “Found in the Flood”

“Found in the Flood” detail

“Found in the Flood” detail

Carol Prusa, multiple artworks

For more information on the artists featured in this year’s exhibition, please visit…

https://omart.org/exhibitions/2024_florida_prize_in_contemporary_art/

6 thoughts on “The Florida Prize in Contemporary Art 2024”

  2. I agree with your OMA comments as I’m sure many people attending did; what the record attendance shows is that not only were people hoping OMA wouldn’t screw this up; but also, the thirst for terrific artists & their work. Thanks for the pix and comments–how long is this exhibition continuing?

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  3. Thanks for the pictures, I look forward to seeing the exhibit in person. I understand that OMA will have lectures featuring the FL Prize artists on Wednesdays 1:30-2:30pm through early August.

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The Wandering Art Historian's avatar
I am writer and artist with a degree in art history who loves to talk to people about art. I have spent the last seven years building up The Wandering Art Historian “brand” as a way to connect with people who want to learn more about art. I give lectures and presentations and teach classes and host book club discussions with a creative or artistic connection. I also write about local artists, events, museums, and exhibitions to promote the arts in Central Florida. In 2021, I had a creative crisis. I struggled with authenticity in the art making process. I decided to make myself vulnerable and find out what a real, genuine Adrienne H. Lee artwork would look like. The process was challenging and emotional and revelatory. I learned that if necessity is the mother of invention, then authenticity is the mother of reinvention. I reinvented myself and learned an entirely new medium. The resulting artwork surprised me, and it will surprise you, too. Some people wish for a fairytale ending. For me, the fairy tale is only the beginning.