This past weekend, I found myself swept into a world where colour, creativity, and coffee collided most delightfully at the Art in Bloom exhibition hosted by Art@84. When I arrived, I was greeted by a kaleidoscope of hues dancing across canvases, perfectly paired with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee from the Brush and Bean coffee shop nestled inside the gallery.
It was impossible not to be mesmerised. The artworks, each bursting with vibrancy and floral designs, felt like they were speaking directly to me. Maybe it was the way they matched my outfit, and yes, I’m that flowers girl, or maybe it was the sheer joy of seeing so many interpretations of beauty in one space. Either way, my heart was stolen.
What struck me most was the diversity of the pieces. From abstract expressions to vivid landscapes, each work was a window into someone’s unique view of the world. It reminded me how wonderfully different our minds are, how we’re all enticed by distinct colours, shapes, and stories.
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The piece that truly captivated me was the Mana Abstract by Richard Conlon. There’s a brilliance to it that’s hard to put into words. But I won’t spoil it for you; he speaks about it with such passion that you simply must hear it from him. Trust me, it’s worth the visit just for that. My colleague, Katrina, was enchanted by a piece by Talent Kapadza, a dreamy landscape featuring large, colourful rock-like formations rolling over hills. It was like stepping into a surreal world where nature had been reimagined with a painter’s whimsy.
After soaking in the art, we settled into the cosy corner of Brush and Bean for some well-deserved treats. I went for my usual, carrot cake and a latte, while Katrina opted for a granadilla cake paired with a chai latte. Here’s a fun twist: all the cakes are baked by Richard Conlon’s wife, and his daughter runs the coffee shop. A family of gifted hands, indeed.
If this sounds like your kind of escape, you’re in luck. This weekend, Art@84 is hosting another exhibition, this time featuring works by Pearl Thompson. If Art in Bloom was any indication, you’re in for another sensory adventure. So, grab a friend, wear something colourful (you’ll blend right in!), and let yourself be swept away by the magic of art, coffee, and community. Who knows, you might just find a piece that speaks to your soul, too.
