CF Appleton Museum of Art celebrates MAX

“Dreamscape,” 2023, watercolor, acrylic and ink on mineral paper mounted on a wood cradleboard and coated with resin. [Courtesy of artist Kendra Brazzel]

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Posted February 10, 2025 | By Susan Smiley-Height, [email protected]

The Appleton Museum of Art, College of Central Florida, is celebrating a Magnolia Art Xchange, or MAX, milestone with the “To the MAX: Magnolia Art Xchange’s 10-Year Anniversary” exhibition.

On view Feb. 15 through May 18, the show includes MAX’s 2025 resident artists Rod Acosta, Kendra Brazzel, Joan Elizabeth, Sarah Lajealle, Z. Reyes and Tyrek Studivant. On March 1, at 11 a.m., during Free First Saturday activities, the artists will offer a talk focusing on their works and inspirations.

Located in Ocala’s historic Union Station, MAX is celebrating its 10th year as a hub for artists, educators and art enthusiasts. Through its resident artists program, MAX provides emerging and mid-career artists with the tools and opportunities to thrive creatively and professionally. The resident artists enjoy dedicated studio spaces with 24/7 access, the chance to showcase their work in exhibitions, engage in public educational programming and receive mentorship and support from MAX’s board of directors and advisory board. This signature program, in collaboration with the city of Ocala and in partnership with Fine Arts For Ocala, embodies MAX’s commitment to fostering artistic growth and community engagement, noted the news release.

“To the MAX: Magnolia Art Xchange’s 10-Year Anniversary” is sponsored by FAFO.

“Celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the Magnolia Art Xchange is incredibly meaningful because it marks a decade of fostering creativity, building community and empowering artists. This incubator has not only had a profound impact on our local art scene but has also sparked a momentum that promises even greater achievements in the years to come,” said Darian Mosley, a MAX board member and secretary, in the release.

The Appleton Museum, Artspace and store are open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday at 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Parking is free; admission fees may apply.

For more information, call (352) 291-4455 or go to appletonmuseum.org