“Exaggerations of History” is an innovative and captivating art exhibit that presents a collection of 101 miniature portrait paintings of female artists spanning from the 12th to the 20th centuries. Each portrait, no larger than a square inch, was meticulously created without the use of magnification tools. Accompanied by an Augmented Reality (AR) experience, the exhibit offers visitors an immersive journey through the lives and works of these remarkable women. By integrating traditional art forms with cutting-edge technology, the exhibit aims to rectify the historical omission of female artists and highlight their significant contributions to the arts.
Exhibition Dates: Sept 3 – October 25, 2024
Opening Reception: Thursday, September 12 from 5:30-7:30 pm
Organizer
Apia (Carolina V. Garcia / b.1977, Chile) is a Conceptual Multidisciplinary artist based in South Florida. With a background in Engineering, Garcia seamlessly navigates diverse mediums and scales, from intricate miniature paintings to expansive 3D installations and vibrant murals. Her artistic journey defies boundaries, driven by a passionate advocacy for inclusion, mirroring the diversity she envisions for the world. Notable solo exhibitions include “Exaggerations of History” at the Museum of Contemporary Art for the Americas (March – May 2024) and the Coral Springs Museum of Art (February – April 2023), alongside “Hi and Hello World Installation and Art Exhibit” at the Coral Springs Museum of Art (February – April 2023). Garcia’s work also graces selected exhibits such as “WATTA Site-specific Installation for Healing Goddess II” (March 2024) and “Women Through the Ages” at the Instituto Cultural de Mexico en Miami (March – May 2024). Recognized for her contributions, Apia received the Artist Innovation Grant (March 2022) and an Artist Support Grant (August 2022) from the Broward Cultural Division. Her art resides in the esteemed collection of the Museum of Contemporary Arts of the Americas, as well as in private collections across the US, Chile, and France.
ARTIST STATEMENT
Inclusion is my driving force, rooted in personal experience and philosophical exploration. Inspired by my son, who navigates life with autism, I discovered art as a powerful means of communication and connection. My path evolved through introspection, seeking inner joy, and fostering a dialogue on self-acceptance and societal inclusion. Through my projects, I invite viewers to embrace diversity and celebrate often-overlooked voices. Each artwork, whether a miniature portrait or a vibrant installation, serves as a portal for reflection and dialogue on our shared humanity, challenging us to embrace our flaws, understand our worth, and cultivate empathy.
Venue
The Armory Art Center campus facilities include three buildings dedicated to art classes, a sculpture garden, and an interior tented courtyard.
The Armory Art Center provides art classes for students of all ages, exhibitions, art salons, lectures, and special events. Nearly 100 courses held in 12 state-of-the-art studios are offered including
- ceramics, photography & digital media, drawing, jewelry, painting, printmaking, textiles & fiber, and sculpture.
- Youth art classes and summer art camps are offered.
- Various exhibitions are hosted throughout the year in three galleries.
- The campus, located at 811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, at the south end of Howard Park, includes three buildings—the two former Palm Beach County National Guard Armory buildings and the Young Artists Studio Facility.
