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The Appleton Museum of Art, College of Central Florida, announces “Finding Beauty,” a unique exhibition in partnership with Ocala Civic Theatre that explores creativity and the spirit of collaboration.

On view May 12-Jan. 15, 2023, “Finding Beauty” merges costume drawings and more from OCT’s production of “Beauty and the Beast” with the objects from the Appleton collection that inspired them. Based on Rococo-style works in the collection, OCT’s costumes borrow patterns, colors and motifs from objects such as a Louis XIV-type clock and wardrobe, as well as fine porcelain objects and elaborate candelabra.

Along with showcasing the inspiration objects, the exhibition also highlights the creative design process and how a static object, such as a clock, can eventually become the costume for a living actor to magically transform into a character such as Cogsworth. The exhibition also includes set photos and sketches by OCT’s award-winning costume designer Eryn Brooks Brewer, a touch table of fabrics and costume embellishments, a photo op and more. After June 5, a selection of costumes from the actual performance will also be on view.

“Finding Beauty” is a true labor of love with our friends and neighbors at OCT,” said Patricia Tomlinson, Appleton Museum curator of exhibitions. “The marriage of the Appleton’s artworks and Eryn’s brilliant costumes has been a delight to bring to life. We are excited to present the beauty of collaboration to our members, patrons and viewers!”

Appleton Director’s Circle members are invited to the VIP Reception on Thursday, May 12, from 5:30-7:30 pm. The event will be a French-inspired evening with hors d’oeuvres, music and a special preview of the exhibition. RSVP required to Colleen Harper, harperc@cf.edu, or 352-291-4455, ext. 1831.

OCT’s production of “Beauty and the Beast” runs May 12-June 5; tickets go on sale April 11. Performances are Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. The theatre is located next to the Appleton at 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd. For more information about OCT or to purchase tickets to “Beauty and the Beast,” visit or call 352-236-2274.

Those with tickets to “Beauty and the Beast” may visit the Appleton “Finding Beauty” exhibition (and all galleries) one time, free of charge, from May 12, 2022-Jan. 15, 2023. Proof of tickets must be presented upon visiting the museum.

The Appleton Museum, Artspace and Store are open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. A campus of the College of Central Florida, the Appleton Museum of Art is located at 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, east of downtown on SR 40 (exit 352 east off I-75 or exit 268 west off I-95). Parking is free. For more information, call 352-291-4455 or visit