In July 2018, Venetian Arts Society had the good fortune to feature John Henry Maldonado, artist, in our “Heaven and Earth” Connoisseur Salon as part of The ArtSage Alliance; a unique and innovative inter-generational and multi-cultural fine arts program at Nova Southeastern University.
VAS Connoisseur Salon: Art of Heaven and Earth
Marble of the World
6001 Powerline Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
Esther Underhay & Annalisa Underhay, harps
In the Masterpiece Spotlight…John Henry Maldonado
I was fully aware of his stunning and unique style in the field of digital-art, however I was not prepared for the overwhelmingly powerful message of ‘art, inspiration, and spiritual awareness’ he would bring to the evening’s Art Salon. The amazingly positive response from our sold-out audience of students, senior citizens, and the general South Florida residents was absolutely incredible
John Henry took us on a quite unique and enlightening journey of storytelling and illustration, all finely crafted through his extraordinary and thought-provoking works of art. The theme was brilliantly conveyed in such a strong and electrifying manner that is beyond my ability to communicate fully. That particular evening will resonate for years to come in all who were there to witness it in person. John Henry went far above and beyond a superb presentation of his art work. This type of individual and personal commitment to art is what separates great artists and sheer artistic genius!
At one point, I realized this was far less about the art work (as truly gripping as it was) and more about inspiring people to consider the divine connection between each of us and a higher power.
There are times in my career when I witness ‘art and enlightenment’ in their purest forms and Thursday, July 28, 2018 was one of those magical evenings.
William Riddle, Artistic/Executive Director
Venetian Arts Society
I met John when I was first opening my store “Fusion-Home” He showed me his art and I instantly fell in love with it… I made him my featured artist for my grand opening..
My most favorite piece was called “Cocoon”. It was such a meaningful piece as I could relate with the transformation I was going through in my life at the time…
I love that John’s art has such deep spiritual meaning behind it. I'm truly inspired by the beauty in John’s visions….
Naomi D.
When people think of artists they quite often reflect upon the masters, Picasso, Degas, Matisse, and Renoir. Each of these artist’s contributions can never truly be measured because their contributions have not ceased to provide inspiration to society and the art world as a whole. One can never compare one artist to another. Each is as individual as the proverbial snowflake. When I reflect upon John I cannot help but be awed by his growth as both an artist and a man. If a similarity were to be drawn between these ‘masters’ and John I would most certainly say that John’s creations will continue to inspire other artists and bring remarkable works to the world just as they had.
I am now well into my second decade working with John and I am both humbled and proud to be associated with such an incredible individual. John brings with him a genuine sense of compassion and sincerity. As an artist his works are far reaching, touching the very soul of those fortunate enough to view them. As a man he possesses a moral code of honor, integrity, and generosity. We should all be worthy of such grandeur.
John’s creations are far more than media on substrate. More than mere images titled mundanely for display. Each and every image John creates has a life of its own. A true spirituality not bound by borders, extended through his vision and creativity. I take great pleasure in being a part of his continued growth and success.
K. M. Allen
President ACF
Press Release Coldwell Banker issued to all South Florida media outlets on May 20, 2018.
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (May 20, 2018) –On Thursday, May 24th, the Gary Lanham Group will host the Dreamscape Art Exhibition and Open House Mixer at 2300 NE 15 Avenue, located a short distance from the central business district. Attendees will enjoy a lavish evening accompanied by music, hors d'oeuvres and the featured art of two talented local artists, John Henry Maldonado and Jim Kiselica.
Artist Maldonado uses digital technology in his creative approach of capturing the explosions of ink that form his surreal and intriguing works of art. His work has been presented at Art Fusions Galleries in the Miami Design District. Jim Kiselica has ingeniously combined his passion of horticulture with his knowledge of interior design to create captivating works of art. His latest collection features contemporary pieces inspired by mid-century modern wall papers and textiles, while depicting natural florae tearing through the lifelike fibers of the walls. The two will have six pieces of artwork on display at the event and will be on hand to discuss their work with attendees.
Complementing the evening’s theme will be a performance by violinist Mary Jane Weise, a former 10-year veteran member of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Chef Todd Schneider will provide an exquisite selection of bites throughout the event. The Wilton Manors listing, remodeled to a contemporary style, is a waterfront home available for $649,000. Offering three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open floor plan, the home is located on a canal with ocean access. The Gary Lanham Group, a top-producing real estate sales team affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, has the listing. Recognized as a progressive city with a large percentage of LGBT residents, Wilton Manors has embraced its diversity as a community.
Gary Lanham, Broker Associate, CRS, CIPS, ABR, AHWD, e-PRO
Gary Lanham Group
Coldwell Banker Real Estate
The Butterfly Painting: Purples and blacks and dual mirror images. This painting resembles transformation for me. I see a butterfly being born and coming to life. It’s about birth, rejuvenation, transformation, re-birth, becoming something new. A new beginning. Creativity and makes me see spiritually what that transformation process may be. It’s peaceful yet so full of activity. Everything is evolving and continuously evolving to become what they or it was meant to be. A sense of duplicity occurring simultaneously. Both sides coming together to formulate something new and whole.
The Fire Painting: Yellows, and brown hues, with dark Smokey ash colors. This painting as two opposite meanings for me. It just depends on my mood. Creation: Sometimes I reflect on this painting as an explosion, creation, the beginning, eruption, a new force that is spawning the plumes of creation. No one knows what will formulate, but something new is erupting. The End: And sometimes I reflect on this painting as a crash, ending, final moments. Something crashed into the ocean or the ground and this is all that is left. The aftermath. The last scene. The flame is burning out and this is the last moments of life.
G. Van Ulbrich
I viewed JHM works of art for the first time around 3 years ago. I had just lost my husband of thirty years. Immediately I felt his presence when I came across John’s New World Series and the birds in particular. And then I saw “Colibri”. It was very personal for me! Joe and I had always sat in our backyard and watched and discussed birds. We came to know a lot of interesting facts about birds — and So now Colibri reminds me to slow down and to take in the peace that my husband left me with—- the same peace I felt as we sat and observed the birds in our backyard. Peace and love by Colibri are what the little birdie says to me every day- and I love it!
J. Davis
The Little Bird is a reminder to me of the fragility of life. John was working on this collection when we met and I fell in love with its simplicity, especially after he described the intricacy of the process to create the design. John’s love and enthusiasm for each creation is obvious when he explains each design and what it means to him.
K. Hatton
The first time I saw the series from John Henry I was mesmerized and fell in love with this grouping and owly was my favorite. There is something about his quirky charm, his inquisitive look that always makes me smile. Owly, hangs proudly in my den (where I spend most of my time) and it’s a constant reminder about life and the choices we have to make. We can choose to smile or choose to frown, when days are the “frowny ones” it reminds me to smile. (Which I am doing writing this) If you are lucky enough to get one of his pieces it will bring joy, peace, and perspective to you and hopefully anyone who visits. We all see different things when we look at art, for me it reminds me how special John Henry is and how much creativity and passion he has for what he does.
G. Weinzimer