JEAN WAGNER TROEMEL CELEBRATES 90TH BIRTHDAY

QUEEN FOR A DAY
Artist Jean Wagner Troemel celebrated her 90th birthday in royal fashion at the St. Augustine Art Association on May 4. She was greeted by scores of friends from the Council on Aging, the St. Augustine Historical Society, the Archaeology Association, the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum, the Memorial Lutheran Church, the Art Galleries of St. Augustine and others. Taking a cue from the royal wedding, party-goers donned outrageous hats to surprise Troemel, who arrived in a horse-drawn carriage after enjoying a scenic cruise along the bay front. The Ancient City Slickers entertained with foot-tapping music throughout the evening, and an artist palette cake by Amanda Cordes topped off the colorful affair. See more pictures on YouTube.

PORTRAITS GET A FACE LIFT

An Edna C. Lamson portrait of Frances Howatt, artist from St Augustine's 1950 art colony, was donated to the Art Association last year by Peggy Howatt, Frances' daughter. Although badly damaged, the Art Association agreed to receive it with the hope of restoring it. Thanks in part to a grant from the Florida Humanities Council, the portrait has been given a face lift! Take a look at the restoration process by Beverly Burgin, Conservator. Also included is the restoration of a portrait of Mrs. James Kaylor by Courtenay Hunt.