Embracing Our Differences and Sarasota Art Museum present “Embracing Kindness”

September 23, 2024 | Sarasota

Embracing Our Differences is pleased to announce the return of “Embracing Kindness,” its collaborative exhibition with Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art and Design. Now in its second consecutive year, this year’s exhibition runs from October 26 to December 18 on the Museum’s great lawn, parallel to the Tamiami Trail. It features 14 enlarged images of original artwork created by students under the mentorship of renowned Sarasota artist and educator Jeffery Cornwell. Spanning more than two decades, these selected works celebrate the transformative power of kindness and respect, as expressed by young artists from Booker High School’s Visual and Performing Arts program, as well as NewGate School, who participated in Cornwell’s visionary art programs. Admission to the “Embracing Kindness” exhibition is free during Museum hours and can be accessed through the Museum’s lobby, leading to the great lawn.

Jeffery Cornwell, a distinguished artist and educator with strong connections to Ringling College of Art and Design, exemplifies the synergy between the organizations.

Having studied fine art at Ringling College, Cornwell has been a professional artist ever since. He recently retired after a notable 33-year tenure as the coordinator and instructor for the College’s Teen Studios. He has also been an adjunct instructor in advanced foundation studio art at Booker High School’s Visual and Performing Arts program for the past 13 years. Over these years, 21 of his students have had their works accepted into EOD’s annual exhibition.

Cornwell says that when he first learned EOD was taking submissions for its annual exhibition, he immediately realized it was an invaluable teaching opportunity. “I thought there are two inherent qualities we all are born with—differences and creativity. What better way is there to teach students they’re all creative, can embrace differences and show that art can effect change? My task was to simply direct them artistically and guide them to tap into that creativity so their message will be effective and clear for people to understand.”

Sarah Wertheimer, president and CEO of EOD, notes, “Jeffery’s long-standing connection with Ringling College enhances the collaborative spirit of our work. His involvement underscores the shared commitment of Ringling College, Sarasota Art Museum, and Embracing Our Differences to fostering creativity and celebrating individual potential.”

Cornwell studied fine art at Ringling College and further honed his skills through an apprenticeship with Toro Yamamoto, focusing on drawing media. As a painter, Jeffery draws inspiration from the natural environment, particularly the interplay between sky and land. His work, exhibited in both solo and group shows, has been featured in galleries and alternative spaces across Florida, Georgia, Texas, and the

West Coast, and is included in private collections throughout the United States and Europe. Cornwell’s upcoming exhibition will be at Sarasota’s 502 Gallery in November. He resides and works in Sarasota.

Since 2019, Sarasota Art Museum has provided visitors a place to experience world-class, boundary-pushing exhibitions from renowned contemporary artists, inspiring and bringing together diverse community members. Located in the historic Sarasota High School, the Museum offers opportunities for our community to engage in dynamic educational programming—introducing visitors to diverse voices and experiences while fostering an appreciation for the art of our time.

While Embracing Our Differences is best known for its annual international art exhibitions, its educational initiatives continue all year long. These include professional development opportunities for educators, reading days, unity days, and other learning programs and events. Since 2004, more than 642,000 students have participated, including 55,357 students and 2,048 teachers during the 2023-2024 school year alone.

For more information about Embracing Our Differences, call 941-404-5710, or visit EmbracingOurDifferences.org.