Elevate Art presents a solo exhibition by painter and mixed media artist John Gleason.
‘St. James Wabi-Sabi’ by John Gleason
Curated by Elevate Art, Beaufort’s new art endeavor founded by Stella (Zvezdana) Scott in 2024, the exhibition invites viewers to experience a vivid visual journey through coastal architecture and landscapes imbued with a sense of enduring beauty and inevitable change.
Gleason, born in Kentucky, raised in North Florida, and now living in South Georgia, draws inspiration from the dunes, marshes, and beach culture of the southern coast. His latest series captures structures—beach houses, unique buildings and homes, and other local landmarks—that feel rooted in time, yet remain vulnerable to the elements and shifting tides of change. Low horizon lines, expansive skies, and meticulous attention to atmosphere characterize his work, creating the sensation of standing eye-level with the subject, immersed in the moment.
With a BA from Colorado State University and an MFA from Florida State University, Gleason’s work has been featured in prominent venues including the Museum of Fine Arts at FSU, Boca Raton Museum of Art, the Gadsden Art Center, and Thomasville Center for the Arts. His creative process is as varied as his subjects—sometimes embracing the unpredictable flow of paint pours, other times composing works pixel by pixel from photo-based techniques.
During his visit to Beaufort a few months ago, he immersed himself in the charm of the town—its architecture, scenery, and local cuisine—while seeking out distinctive structures to capture in his paintings, creating a special surprise for the upcoming exhibition.
The exhibition is presented by Elevate Art, an online art pop-up gallery committed to curating exceptional works for collectors, designers, and art lovers. Founded by Stella Scott—known locally for her work and on the Board of the Beaufort Art Association and her successful gallery in Pennsylvania—Elevate Art connects the Lowcountry with both established and emerging artists through curated online collections, pop-up exhibitions, and personalized consulting services. Elevate Art also offers a dedicated service to research, curate, and source artwork tailored to your requirements.
Most recently, Elevate Art organized the well-received “In the Footsteps of Lafayette: An Artistic Expression” exhibit in partnership with the Historic Beaufort Foundation, showcasing the region’s cultural heritage through contemporary artistic perspectives.
Also, for two consecutive years, Elevate Art made a meaningful contribution to Beaufort’s cultural
Stella Scott of Elevate Art
landscape by partnering with the Freedman Arts District’s Chalk It Up festival, by bringing nationally recognized chalk artists to the Lowcountry.
Opening Reception:
Join us for the opening night on Friday, October 3, 2025 at 5-7pm, at USCB Center for the Arts,
where guests will have the opportunity to meet our guest artist John Gleason, explore his paintings, and engage with the stories and inspirations behind his work.
About Elevate Art
Elevate Art is Beaufort’s gateway to curated creativity, offering an expertly selected online collection of artists and art, alongside in-person exhibitions throughout the year. Serving individuals, galleries, architects, designers, and corporations, Elevate Art is dedicated to sourcing art that transforms spaces and inspires connection. For more information visit: https://artcloud.market/gallery/elevate-art
