The SH Modern Art Gallery in Fort Myers is opening its doors to the community with a new art exhibit just in time for Valentine’s Day. The exhibit, titled “Love Boldly,” brings together expressive and modern art from a variety of artists.

One of the featured artists, Amber Goldhammer, traveled from Los Angeles to be present at the exhibit’s opening. Goldhammer shared her thoughts on the collection.

“Well, this collection is really about life’s happy moments,” said Goldhammer. “We all just need a little glimpse of a minute to be happy. And if my art can do that, then I’ve done my job well.”

Goldhammer expressed her enthusiasm for interacting with collectors face-to-face, saying it enhances the meaning of her art. During the event, she hand-embellished art pieces, adding personal touches such as special sayings and nicknames requested by buyers.

“I’m going to be hand-embellishing art tonight,” said Goldhammer. “I’m going to be writing special sayings, pet names, nicknames, whatever anybody wants me to write on a piece of art they want to purchase. I’m happy to do it.”

The “Love Boldly” exhibit explores themes such as love as power, memory, devotion, and renewal. Gallery owner Sallie Hirshberg highlighted the diversity of the art on display.

“It’s a tour of art and love through the eyes of many different important artists from the 20th century, where we have Patrick Rubenstein, who has incredible kinetic art, and Amber Goldhammer,” said Hirshberg.

Hirshberg praised Goldhammer’s style for adding warmth and light to the exhibit.

“Her work is all about connection, and hope, and love, and she uses this bold stroke of paint, along with adding in three-dimensional objects into her art,” said Hirshberg. “So, she is just the light and the energy that makes this show shine.”

For Goldhammer, the connection between art and audience is crucial.

“Love is complicated and messy, but it’s also very beautiful,” said Goldhammer. “And it’s something that we all want and need in our life. So this specific collection is really about boldly loving and being happy.”

The “Love Boldly” exhibit will be open to the public for the next four weeks at the SH Modern Art Gallery.