Five Deuces Galleria (2101 3rd Ave. S.) is marking the end of an era as curators Julie Haura and Geoffrey Varis present their final exhibit in the main gallery. The SMALL WORKS exhibit, running from December 6 to January 13, will be the last show the pair promotes, closing a chapter that has shaped St. Pete’s local art scene for the past five years.
“Together, we achieved so much—countless art sales, vital exposure for both new and established artists, and a string of awards that recognized our little corner of the art world,” Haura and Varis shared in their announcement.
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130 works from 65 artists
Since stepping into their roles five years ago, Haura and Varis have been instrumental in providing a platform for local talent. Many artists sold their first pieces at Five Deuces Galleria, using the space as a springboard for their careers.
“When someone comes in and purchases a piece of guest work and I get to call the artist and say it sold…to hear the joy and satisfaction in their voice, it’s a game changer,” Haura reflects.
Their final exhibit, SMALL WORKS, features 130 works from 65 artists, celebrating the holiday season with unique and accessible creations. True to its name, the exhibit offers small, manageable pieces perfect for gift-giving, all created by local artists. Additionally, the gallery’s Christmas tree will showcase one-of-a-kind ornaments designed by the artists, which are also available for purchase.
Art will continue
Although Haura and Varis are stepping away from curating, their involvement with the arts won’t end. Both plan to focus on their own artistic pursuits while continuing to support the creative community.
The owner of Five Deuces Galleria, Mike Harting, is currently working with resident artists to determine the next steps for the gallery space. While the future of the main gallery is yet to be unveiled, one thing is certain: art will remain at the heart of Five Deuces.
We eagerly await further announcements on the future of Five Deuces Galleria. In the meantime, Huara and Varis leave I Love The Burg with this sentiment: “We have a lot of personal gratitude for the chance to meet so many interesting people and call them my friends…some of the friendships we’ve formed are permanent.”
For now, the SMALL WORKS exhibit stands as a fitting farewell to their impactful tenure—an invitation to celebrate art, connection, and community.
Check out Five Deuces Galleria here.
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