Past Exhibitions

*

Past Exhibitions *

We want to sincerely thank Orlando Sentinel's Patrick Connolly for his amazing article on our Winn-Win Emerging Artists Exhibition 2025!

The article highlights how the Exhibition celebrates rising local talent and provides a platform for fresh, creative voices whose work explores contemporary themes, as well as personal narratives of tragedy, addiction, and joy.

You captured both the spirit of the event and the diversity of media on display, giving readers a great sense of what makes this showcase so special.

Through your coverage, readers can appreciate not only the artists themselves but also the role Mills Art Gallery plays in nurturing Orlando's and Central Florida's creative community!

Read the article below!

The Winn Win Emerging Artists Exhibition 2025

From November 21st to January 11th (Extended!)

Our second annual Winn-Win Exhibition will honor the enduring spirit of the late philanthropist and art lover, Michael Winn, whose generosity and love for the arts continue to inspire Orlando’s creative renaissance.

The Exhibition will feature 5 acclaimed Emerging Artists and give them an opportunity to showcase their work. It will highlight the next generation of visual artists, with a special focus on painting, the foundation of the visual arts, and a vital force shaping Orlando’s cultural identity.

Many thanks to our supporters:

Sam Flax

Carol Kit Healthy

The Gallery at Mills Park

Bang & Olufsen Winter Park

Butch & Renee Charlan

Special thanks to John Morales from Creación de Contenidos for the outstanding photography and video production.

Check out the Emerging Artists’ Interviews here!

Prepare for an inspiring and art-filled evening!

On January 8th at 6:30 PM, the Winn Win Emerging Artists Talk brings together Orlando’s rising talents for an intimate, behind-the-canvas experience. Guests will hear the personal stories, challenges, and sparks of inspiration that shape each artist’s work, and you’ll have the chance to ask your own questions to uncover what truly drives their creative process.

On top of that, all attendees will be entered into an exclusive art raffle, where you could walk away with a valuable piece of original artwork by one of the Emerging Artists. Sam Flax will also be giving out a surprise gift as part of the raffle!

Engaging conversations, fresh creative energy, and the possibility of taking home art you love. This is a Talk you won’t want to miss!!

Hosted by Juan Pablo Santa Luna, Boris Garbe, and Ambar Santiago.

October 2nd, 2025

Deconstructing: VAUGHN BELAK

6:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Vaughn Belak is an independent artist/painter who has been painting professionally for 10 years. This exhibition, which will feature brand new, never-before-seen work, will be his very first Gallery Exhibition!

With this event, Vaughn will reveal that growing older and continuous changes in his life have created a new version of himself: kinder, gentler, and with no time for BS.

By having his first gallery event at Mills Gallery, Vaughn re-enters the Art World as a fine artist. The opening Reception is on October 2nd at 6:30 pm.

Sneak a Peek into the Exhibition here!

Artist Statement

“By painting tonight, tomorrow I awaken to see my dreams, but not so often here, which is truly the best without censoring.

How can I let the subconscious speak? Automatic and abstract meet quite easily with a sleight of hand, like a master hypnotist, bringing forth my unconscious mind set free.

My process blends spontaneity with intention—often using cut-up canvases, glue guns, and bold color choices to transform memories into visual experiences.

Someone once told me they wanted to live their life in my colors. I replied: I lived that life—and now I paint it.”

Mills Gallery & Kristy Lee presents,

Vickie Wilson, “My Last Show: A CELEBRATION OF MY LIFE’S WORK”

From August 28 to September 26

Last chance to witness the famous abstract-graffiti style work of local artist, Vickie Wilson!

Wilson has decided to retire and she wants the community that loves her so much to have an opportunity to acquire her art at extremely affordable prices.

“Now those memories can be transformed by searching for a personal language in art. I am grateful to many friends, artists, and teachers who inspired and challenged my life in all manners, both difficult and uplifting, with a kick in the ass and a kiss.” - Vickie

An Opportunity to Help

The money collected from this event will be used to make her life easier and to allow her to have closure with that part of her life.

Family and dear friends are involved in this project, and it would be an event that will allow the art community to honor one of its own. Our artist in residence, Kristy Lee, has decided to create and curate this event.

Photo Gallery by WOW Brand Studios

Sneak a Peek into this previous Exhibition here!

May 30, 2025

Mark T. Smith’s Solo Exhibition “The Third Act”

WOW Brand Studios proudly presented The Third Act, a solo exhibition by acclaimed contemporary artist Mark T. Smith at Mills Gallery (Voted Orlando's Best Art Gallery).

Opened to the public on May 30, the exhibition showcased Smith’s bold, expressive works celebrating resilience, transformation, and artistic expression.

Known for his vivid palettes, intricate compositions, and symbolic storytelling, Smith has exhibited globally and collaborated with major brands like Disney, Absolut, and Taco Bell, and is collected by celebrities like Jay Leno, Bang Bang NYC, Elton John, and Neil Diamond.

"The Third Act" exhibition marked his latest evolution as an artist and offered a powerful visual narrative of resilience and creativity.

Curatorial Collaboration with Emerging Talent
In an exciting partnership, The Third Act was curated by Jillian Pini, as part of the Emerging Curator Program in collaboration with the Delaware Museum of Art and John William Gallery. Pini’s curatorial approach provided a unique lens through which audiences can engage with Smith’s work, exploring themes of perseverance, identity, and artistic evolution.

An Elevated Art Experience
Guests enjoyed an exclusive evening featuring a curated tasting experience provided by Casa Obsidiana Tequila and The Boisset Collection Wines.

May 2, 2025

“The SCULPTED Canvas” By Marla E

We hope you viewed the latest creations by one of our local Art Superstars, Marla E, at Mills Gallery.

We wanted you to be both awed and surprised by her new line of Art, as well as her ongoing lines of Jewelry and now Clothing!

In the exclusive interview below with Boris, owner of Mills Gallery, Marla E was diving into the inspiration behind her sculptures, as well as giving you a sneak peek into her jewelry and fashion lines.

She was so excited to connect with you all and share her creative journey!

SEE MORE OF MARCOS AND ANTHONY AT:
WWW marcoscarrascoart.com

WWW SAATCHIARTanthonyastarita.com

April 11, 2025

Marcos Carrasco, Anthony Astarita in “DUO: Two Solo Shows at Once”

Duo: Two Solo Shows At Once" brought together the talents of Marcos Carrasco and Anthony Astarita in a most unique exhibition format at Mills Gallery!

Marcos Carrasco presented his series “Mano A Mano”, a collection of paintings that reflect his artistic vision. Meanwhile, Anthony Astarita showcased “From Rags to Riches”, a series that explores themes of transformation.

Both artists share a commitment to their community, with a portion of their sales going to charity.

Part of the sales proceeds was donated to the Elevate Foundation & the communal kitchen soup “Los Bajitos”.

IG: @elevatefoundation   @losbajitos_olla

February 21, 2025

Chuavevo's First Solo Exhibition, "I Am Chuave"

An exclusive opening night reception celebrating the powerful work of Córdoba-born, Miami-forged urban artist “Chuavevo”. His highly anticipated solo exhibition, 'I Am Chuave,' at Mills Gallery (Voted Orlando’s Best Gallery) on February 21st at 6 pm, offered a compelling exploration of human resilience and cultural exchange through dynamic mural art on canvas. 

ABOUT CHUAVE
From Argentina to Wynwood, Now Orlando. Chuave is coming!!

From the vibrant streets of Córdoba, Argentina, to the pulsating art scene of Miami, Chuave has ignited the urban landscape with his powerful visual expression. A fifth-generation painter immersed in hip-hop culture from a young age, Chuave's art pulsates with raw energy, born from improvisation and a deep understanding of human emotion.

His work transcends mere graffiti, transforming walls, surfaces, and canvases into poignant reflections on society, everyday life, and the shared human experience. Showcased at prestigious events like Wynwood Walls for two consecutive years.

At Art Basel week, Chuave’s work has garnered international attention for its raw authenticity and powerful message. His expression extends far beyond aesthetics; it's a call for social commitment and solidarity. He sees himself not only as an urban artist but as a communicator, an ambassador of connection. His murals are designed to inspire dialogue and reflection, encouraging positive change in how we perceive and interact with our surroundings. 

Chuave’s renowned work and solo exhibit at Mills Gallery on February 21st. It was an art experience like no other.


Sneak a Peek into this previous Exhibition here!

SEE MORE OF TIM EDWARDS AT:

IG www.instagram.com/timedwards

January 8, 2025

Kristy Lee and Mills Gallery Presents “Tim Edwards Creative Visions”

Tim Edwards is a visionary painter who dreamed from early on to become a full-time artist.

Even though Tim never completed any formal art education, he did attend OSWEGO University as well as the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan in the early/mid 1980s.

“If asked to classify my art, I think it would be realism with a touch of the surreal.

My objective is to create thought-provoking paintings, pushing to inspire the viewer to look beyond the art piece and try to envision what is transpiring, feel an emotion, and make up their own story for what they see.


A successful piece of artwork, in my opinion, doesn’t leave the person as they continue on…it stays with them in some little way.”

— Tim Edwards

October 4, 2024

The Winn-Win Emerging Artists Exhibition 2024

Curated by Jennifer Coolidge

On October 4th, Orlando’s art scene was elevated to new heights with the launch of the prestigious Winn Win Emerging Artist Exhibition, a one-of-a-kind event presented by local philanthropists Michael and Gail Winn. Hosted at Mills Gallery, recently voted Orlando's #1 art Gallery by the readers of Orlando Magazine, this exhibition spotlighted promising emerging artists in the region.

Each artist brings a unique perspective, pushing boundaries and offering fresh takes on contemporary art. The exhibition will allow patrons to meet the artists in person, making this event an intimate and interactive experience.

What makes the Winn Win Emerging Artist Exhibition stand out is its mission to provide critical support for artists at a pivotal stage in their careers. By showcasing their work in Orlando’s premier art gallery, these artists will have access to influential patrons, collectors, and art enthusiasts, a key step in advancing their artistic journeys.

The idea for an exhibition spotlighting emerging artists was conceived by Mills Gallery’s Juan Pablo Santa Luna, who is passionate about cultivating artists ranging from musicians to visual creators. His work with the Orlando Philharmonic positions him to be an avid supporter of all Central Florida arts.

Curated by longtime arts advocate Jennifer Coolidge, this first annual event is co-presented by notable community leaders Fred and Jeanie Raffa and Lars and Julie Anderson. All are committed to supporting the growth of Orlando’s vibrant creative sector.

In addition, a percentage of all sales from the exhibition will be donated to the Atlantic Center for the Arts Youth Programs, further underlining the event’s dedication to fostering creativity and empowering the next generation of artists.