TALLHASSEE, FL - Secretary of State Ken Detzner announces an exhibition of paintings entitled “The Landscape of Myakka,” by Sarasota artist Susan J. Klein. The exhibition will be on display through April 7, 2003 in the Cabinet Meeting Room of the Florida State Capitol Building.

The paintings of Susan Klein explore the wonders of the Florida landscape, particularly those found at the Myakka River State Park. “My paintings are a record and a celebration of Myakka River State Park,” states Klein. “By painting the imagery there, I am preserving a special piece of Florida that is vulnerable to loss through an act of man or nature. At the same time, my paintings are an invitation to those who haven’t experienced Myakka, to come there and enjoy the wonder and peace of the place.”

Professional artist, Susan Klein has been painting and exhibiting for over thirty years. Originally from Ohio, she moved to Sarasota in 1990 and devoted herself to her painting. She holds a Master of Arts degree from Kent State University and previously taught design and drawing at Youngstown State University and the University of Akron, both in Ohio. She also owned and directed the Steel Street Experimental Gallery in Youngstown. Throughout her career, Klein has received numerous awards and honors including the selection of one of her paintings by the American Embassy in Rome, Italy as part of the United States Department of State Art in Embassies program.

This exhibition is part of the Florida Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs’ Capitol Complex Exhibition Program. The Cabinet Meeting Room is located on the Lower Level of the Capitol. Hours are Monday - Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with a tour guide only. Call in advance for available tour times at 850/488-6167. For general information about the Capitol Complex Exhibition program, please contact Sandy Shaughnessy at the Division of Cultural Affairs at 850/245-6480.

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