'Firefly Artists' Light Up LaMantia

The grand opening of “The Firefly Artists,” housed within LaMantia Gallery, attracted visitors like moths to a flame on Saturday night. 

More than 150 people stopped by to check out the diverse array of artwork, gallery co-owner James LaMantia said.

The Firefly Artists, an artistic co-op featuring eight diverse artists, was the brainchild of Cathy Nichols and Northport resident Kate Sydney.

Nichols, who moved back to her hometown of Centerport two years ago, said that when she lived in California, she was part of a similar co-op for seven years.

She thought that Northport would respond well to a similar venue, and ran the idea by Sydney, a jewelry designer.

Shortly thereafter, the women learned LaMantia was willing to offer them space.

Anxious to seize the day, the pair reached out to the Northport Arts Coalition. Through NAC they quickly found artists who were interested in being part of the co-op.

Within a month, the place was up and running and presenting a wide range of media and artists’ styles.

Nichols, who works in beeswax encaustics to create colorful, whimsical works, draws her inspiration from music and happy childhood memories.

Sydney, who has been making jewelry since she was 13 years old, uses semi-precious stones, pearls and sterling silver to create asymmetrical pieces that she dubs “classics with a twist.”

Co-op members will be at the gallery on a rotating basis, enabling visitors to meet the artists whose work is on display.

A consignment section at the gallery features the work of guest artists, Nichols added.

Photographer Jennifer Stearns Lau said that the outpouring of enthusiasm she experienced Saturday energized her.

“We had a big crowd all night,” said Lau. “It is very exciting and nice to feel that I have a home base, a consistent place to show my work.”

Also on display is the work of: James Johansen, an oil painter known for his evocative seascapes; Justin Mayer, who paints and also has ceramics and sculptural pieces on exhibit; Marianne Moreno, a painter who recently embarked on a 3D body of work; Holli Gersh, who creates ceramics and paints bold, abstract pieces; and Joel Rodgers, who creates giclée prints and oil paintings. Melissa Moss is currently a guest artist.

Eileen Pinchuck, owner of Jewelry Collection said she is impressed with the work and the space.

“The gallery has a wonderful feel,” Pinchuck said, adding that the pieces of work complement each other.

For 22 years, LaMantia has watched  his “classic Main Street business” evolve from its humble ‘brick and mortar’ beginnings. The gallery now has an international presence and sells artwork around the globe. He said he sees success in store for The Firefly Artists.

“And I am delighted to be able to showcase the work of Long Island artists,” LaMantia added.

To learn more about The Firefly Artists, drop by 127 Main Street, Northport Village, or visit thefireflyartists.com.