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Join us for the next chapter of Distilled: An Artist Series featuring December's artist, Francisco Adaro. Distilled comes from the idea of extracting the essence of something — just as spirits are distilled, artists distill their experiences, influences, and perspectives into creative work. This opening gallery night marks the beginning of Francisco's month-long installation, with his work on display throughout the distillery all December long.
Come sip, mingle, and explore as Francisco transforms the distillery with his imaginative oil paintings transporting viewers into playful, surreal landscapes where vibrant color, intricate detail, and visual storytelling spark curiosity and delight.
Throughout the evening, guests can enjoy drinks from the bar, grab a light bite, mingle with Francisco, and explore the artwork throughout the distillery as the space comes to life through art, conversation, and community.
Free to attend • All are welcome • RSVP encouraged
Presented by Distillery 98 in collaboration with Emerald Coast Storytellers and in partnership with the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County.
About Francisco Adaro:
Francisco Adaro is an Argentine-born painter whose work merges playful imagination with technical refinement. Born and raised in Buenos Aires, his interest in art began early and remained constant, even as he took on various jobs to support himself. He studied at La Salle art school, where he discovered a deep connection to mural painting and a love for storytelling through images. To make ends meet, he would often sell quick drawings to passing tourists—an early glimpse of the personal connection that would later define his career. These street sketches lead to Francisco having a chance encounter with his wife Brooke Gontarek, a traveler visiting from Florida’s 30A area. Eventually, they settled in South Walton and opened a studio that became both a home for his creativity and a space to share his work with a growing audience. Adaro’s painting style is distinctive: using traditional oils, he creates bold, colorful scenes filled with stylized characters—people, animals, and hybrids of both. His figures often have exaggerated features and expressive gestures, capturing everyday moments with humor and warmth. There’s a sense of narrative in each piece, inviting viewers to slow down and look closely. Learn more here: https://www.adaroart.com/.
The Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) of Walton County is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that has served as the creative core of Walton County, Florida, for more than 30 years. Through advocacy, education, funding, and innovative programming, the CAA connects the community to visual, performing, and public arts that inspire creativity, enrich lives, and support cultural tourism. The organization produces events, exhibitions, public art initiatives, and educational outreach programs that uplift local artists and expand access to the Arts for residents and visitors alike. Learn more at CulturalArtsAlliance.com.
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Distillery 98, 835 Serenoa Rd, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459-5019, United States
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