Hybrid Composition(s): Skin, Scale, Spring & Spectacle

The Gallery of Art presents its photography competition’s Best of Show winner Emily Ellis in monthlong exhibition

From March 6-April 12, 2025 the Gallery of Art in Panama City will host an exhibition of works by Emily Frances Ellis, the gallery’s Best of Show winner. An opening reception will be held on March 13 from 5-7 p.m. for the photography collection titled Hybrid Composition(s): Skin, Scale, Spring & Spectacle.  

Ellis is an award-winning photographer and painter, a naturalist, and an activist. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Auburn University in 1989, a Master of Fine Arts from the University of South Florida in 1993, and is a graduate of the University of Florida Master Naturalist Program in 2010. In 2020, Ellis was recognized as Conservationist of the Year by the Bay County Audubon Society. She is a contributing photographer to the group and many other nature-based organizations. 

Ellis remarks: “The natural world has traditionally been my foremost inspiration. Regardless of medium, my work leans predominantly toward the abstract with an emphasis on texture, mark-making, and especially composition. I am a stickler for strong composition. The title of this photography show, Hybrid Composition(s): Skin, Scale, Spring & Spectacle, reflects my focus on the ‘composition’ of the compositions through a diverse amalgamation of subject matter. Animal skins and scales provide immersive textures, spring waterscapes offer intimate repose, and the remainder of works are comprised of ‘spectacles’ to include animal eye portraits, color inversions, and a limited selection of non-nature-based images. Also included are some never-before-shown light writing/moon writing images utilizing open lens photography. I am honored to be able to share this body of work, for the journey has truly been a labor of love.” 

Ellis lives in Inlet Beach and offers studio visits by appointment. For art inquiries, you can reach her at 850-818-2262, EmilyFrancesEllis.Art@gmail.com, or on Facebook as Daisy Hipbilly. 

The Gallery of Art is located at 36 W. Beach Drive, Panama City, Florida and is open Wednesday to Saturday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.