Local artist Quia Z Atkinson likes to go with the flow, thanks largely to her nomadic upbringing. Raised in a military family, she has lived in Morocco, Norway, Illinois, Pennsylvania, New York, South Carolina, Virginia, and, finally, Tallahassee. As a child, she embraced change and the diverse cultures she encountered have influenced her creative process.

Atkinson’s artwork is an extension of her global background and it expresses her desire for constant movement. She works on both canvas and wood panel. Using a mixture of a resin and acrylic with embellishments of glass and crystals, Atkinson’s artworks focus on fluidity.

“Once the resin and paint start to flow, I have no choice but to follow it wherever it leads me,” Atkinson said. “Resin is a fickle creature, comprised of two elements mixed together. It takes a certain finesse with many factors coming together perfectly. The weather, heat application, and time all play a crucial role in the final outcome.”

Her creations often include a three-dimensional aspect with layers of translucency and depth of color offering new surprises when viewed at different angles and light levels. Atkinson is constantly challenging herself and enjoys experimenting with new techniques. She founded an online space, QZ Design Gallery, and she’s earned recognition and accolades for her exuberant artworks.

This exhibition will be on view at the Artport Gallery through Nov. 8. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing when visiting the gallery. To see a digital version of this exhibit, visit COCA’s Online Gallery at cocaonlinegallery.zenfolio.com.

This is one of many rotating exhibitions curated by the Council on Culture & Arts on behalf of the City of Tallahassee as part of the Art in Public Places program. The Artport Gallery itself is located in the Tallahassee International Airport, 3300 Capital Circle SW, and is open daily from 8:00 am until 11:30 pm. The first 30 minutes of parking is free for both the short-term parking lot.