Survey the West: A Cross-Continental Reflection Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Melinda Hartline
HARTLINE Communications
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Stephanie Adamo
Director of Marketing
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The James Museum Unveils Survey the West, a Bold Reimagining of the American West by Internationally Acclaimed Tampa-based Artist Ya La’ford
Opening February 15, the Landmark Exhibition Marks Two Milestones: Collaboration with La’ford and a Focus on Abstract Art
January 15, 2024 – St. Petersburg, FL – For the first time, The James Museum is presenting an exhibition by internationally acclaimed Tampa-based artist Ya La’ford. The abstract paintings and sculptures are the culmination of the artist’s recent three-month exploration of American West. Survey the West: A Cross-Continental Reflection marks The James Museum’s debut of an exhibition dedicated to abstract art, reflecting its commitment to showcasing experimental art styles. The exhibition opens on February 15 and runs through May 18, 2025.
In working with La’ford, The James bolsters its dedication to highlighting contemporary artists, presenting diverse perspectives and amplifying a broad spectrum of voices. A first generation American of Jamaican descent, La’ford brings a powerful and unique viewpoint to her art, and this exhibition is her largest solo show to date. A hallmark of La’ford’s work is the connections she makes between her heritage and vulnerable communities using the power of art as a universal language.
“Survey the West represents a bold new chapter for The James Museum,” said Executive Director Robin Nicholson. “A fresh voice for our museum, La’ford has created striking works that invite us to see landscapes and cultures through a distinct and deeply personal lens.”
In this exhibition, La’ford explores the American West through her signature geometric and linear labyrinths, redefining traditional views of the West. During her time in the region, La’ford surveyed mountains, canyons and other geological features that were shaped over millions of years by heat, gravity, wind and water. The resulting art captures the essence of place, prioritizing color, shape, texture and emotion.
“My journey through the American West was nothing short of transformative, and I am profoundly honored to unveil this experience in my largest solo exhibition at The James Museum,” said La’ford. “Their commitment to showcasing abstract art not only amplifies diverse voices but also creates powerful opportunities for meaningful conversations that reconstruct our future narratives. Through this exhibition, we aim to challenge perceptions and inspire a collective reimagining of our shared stories, bridging the past with the possibilities of tomorrow.”
Guided tours of Survey the West will begin at the museum’s permanent galleries, offering visitors a chance to explore how diverse artists have portrayed the American West across time. From there, the journey transitions into Survey the West, inviting guests to connect these traditional depictions with Ya La’ford’s abstract and contemporary impressions. This thoughtful sequence fosters meaningful connections between the exhibition, the permanent collection and the community, highlighting shared themes and unique perspectives.
“We feel this exhibition is both innovative and connected to the heart of the museum, our permanent collection,” said Emily Kapes, Chief Curator of The James Museum. “The layered compositions capture the essence of the West in a compelling new way.”
The art acknowledges and challenges how we determine boundaries through the historical process of surveying land, while also offering the idea that, beyond the drawn lines, there is boundlessness. Through the exhibition, The James Museum continues to foster a conversation about the intersection of land, heritage and the narratives of the people of the West.
The exhibition includes two experiences that will extend the opportunity for guest exploration. First, an in-gallery immersive element reflects La’ford’s innovative use of multi-sensory experiences, connecting her pieces to one another and to the viewer. And known for community murals that embody her art ethos, La’ford will compose a new mural, inviting the public to contribute to its creation during a portion of the exhibition.
The exhibition will be complemented by a range of special adult, family and youth programs designed to enhance the visitor experience and provide opportunities for deeper engagement.
Programs include:
MEMBER EXCLUSIVES
February 13 | Survey the West Exhibition Opening Reception
YOUTH & FAMILY
February 15–March 23 | Westward Mural Project with Ya La’ford (schedule varies; check website availability)
March 8 | Family Day: Lines & Designs
April 26 | Mural Unveiling Reception
ADULT PROGRAMS
February 15 | Free Day: Educators
February 15 | Curator Gallery Tour of Survey the West
March 4 | After Hours Sip & See Tour: Survey the West
April 1 | Survey the West: Ya La’ford and Venessa Castagnoli in Conversation
April 22 | After Hours Sip & See Tour: Survey the West
SPECIAL EXHIBITION TOURS
Docent-led tours will be every day from 11 a.m.–12 p.m. while the special exhibition is on view.
Survey the West is the first of four special exhibitions planned for The James Museum in 2025. The exhibitions allow visitors to encounter extraordinary works of art while exploring the compelling stories and voices behind them. For more information on the 2025 exhibitions and related events, visit thejamesmuseum.org/special-exhibitions and follow the museum on Instagram and Facebook for sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes looks at each exhibition.
Key Takeaways:
- First Abstract Art Exhibition at The James Museum: Survey the West: A Cross-Continental Reflection is The James Museum’s inaugural exhibition dedicated exclusively to abstract art, running from February 15 to May 18, 2025. It reflects the museum’s commitment to experimental and innovative art styles.
- First Collaboration with Ya La’ford: This exhibition marks the first time The James Museum has partnered with internationally acclaimed Tampa-based artist Ya La’ford. Her distinctive artistic approach introduces a fresh and deeply personal perspective to the museum’s offerings.
- Ya La’ford’s Unique Artistic Vision: Tampa-based artist Ya La’ford, a first-generation American of Jamaican descent, brings her signature geometric and linear labyrinths to redefine traditional views of the American West. Her art explores themes of connection, heritage and the power of art as a universal language.
- Engaging and Community Engagement: The exhibition features engaging experiences, including a public mural project led by La’ford and an interactive installation connecting the art pieces to one another and to viewers. These elements encourage active community participation and deeper engagement.
- Thematic Connections Across Collections: Guided tours begin in the museum’s permanent galleries, allowing visitors to explore traditional depictions of the American West before transitioning into La’ford’s abstract interpretations. This sequence fosters meaningful connections between the museum’s existing collection, the exhibition and the community.
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