On Saturday, May 11, The Zoo Gallery located at 500 Grand Boulevard, will host artist and children’s author, Raven Roxanne, for an exclusive book signing and reading beginning at 11 a.m.
Based in Charleston, South Carolina, Raven was raised on the Emerald Coast and was inspired to create at a young age from the artistic influence of her family’s eclectic art gallery, The Zoo Gallery. Founded in 1979 by her parents, Chris and Roxie Wilson, The Zoo Gallery carries an extensive array of artwork, pottery, jewelry, and home décor that is hard to come by in other areas along the Emerald Coast. The Wilsons pride themselves on showcasing the most unusual, yet spectacular pieces from artists across the United States. They hand select pieces that are a culmination of both their artistic visions while also providing excellent customer service and great music to everyone who walks in the door.
As one of many artistic minds in her family, Raven went on to receive a Bachelor in Fine Arts from Auburn University and then moved on to create works of art that are centered around the thriving strength of women, the beauty of imperfection, and the harmony of mental and physical well-being of the figure. Raven partnered with Serena & Lily to launch her storybook at the start of 2019. Serena & Lily hosted her in a cross-country tour, from New York to California, to read her book and teach a “Nest” workshop for children. She has also worked with West Elm for the past three years on a variety of projects. Her collection of teacup and bowls with Anthropologie launched this spring.
“My artistic practice is a response to the colors, energies, textures, and composition of my life,” Raven said. “Through my work, I hope to invoke a connection for my viewers while representing the truest version of myself.”
Raven recently published her first children’s book titled “A Raven’s Nest” which follows a young girl and her mischievous dog as they journey to build their own nest using the varied treasures and creatures they discover at the beach.
Raven will be signing copies of her book beginning at 11 a.m. and doing a reading at 11:15 a.m. at The Zoo Gallery in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, followed by an art project inspired by the book for children to participate in. The event will coincide with the 31st Annual ArtsQuest: A Fine Art & Fine Craft Festival taking place throughout Grand Boulevard Town Center and produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County.
In tandem, The Zoo Gallery will host a Magnolia Pearl Trunk Show on Saturday-Sunday, May 11-12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Magnolia Pearl is one of The Zoo Gallery’s most popular brands created by Robin Brown from Fredericksburg, Texas. The clothing line is composed of vintage fabrics and laces that can be layered together for a chic, effortless look.
To RSVP for the book signing event, please email info@thezoogallery.com. To learn more about Raven and her works, visit her website.