Opposites Attract in Lighthouse ArtCenter’s New Exhibit

Husband-and-wife artists Jason and Nicole Newsted showcase their work in a dynamic dual show at the Tequesta gallery

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Jason and Nicole Newsted in upstate New York. Courtesy of Jason and Nicole Newsted
Jason and Nicole Newsted in upstate New York. Courtesy of Jason and Nicole Newsted

Tucked away in the quiet Village of Tequesta is a very large, very loud mural—by the
former bass player of one of the world’s loudest heavy metal bands. The painting
was done by former Metallica member and current Jupiter resident Jason Newsted in 2018, on the exterior of an old fire station, to help the Lighthouse ArtCenter secure money to purchase the station so it could continue housing its School of Art and Ceramics inside the building.   

This month, the Lighthouse ArtCenter welcomes Jason inside its walls, showcasing some of his latest artwork in a joint show with his wife and fellow artist, Nicole Newsted. “Like Mind,” which opens January 19 and will be on display until March 1, includes more than 50 pieces by the couple.

Everybody’s Ick, Jason Newsted. Courtesy of Jason and Nicole Newsted
Everybody’s Ick, Jason Newsted. Courtesy of Jason and Nicole Newsted

A self-taught multi- media artist, Jason uses iconography and images to create highly textural paintings layered with meaning. He describes the show as “bright and previously unseen works developed and created through [my and my wife’s] journey together.” 

In stark contrast to Jason’s artwork, Nicole’s paintings are bright, whimsical, and cheery. “I am drawn to the overly saturated, the kitschy, and the saccharine,” says the classically trained artist. “My paintings are meditations on objects made of plastic, polyester, and artificial flavoring.” Nicole’s art depicts images that evoke comforting childhood memories, like colored candies, doughnuts, bunnies, and Care Bears.   

Heaven Holds a Place for Those Who Pray, Jason Newsted. Courtesy of Jason and Nicole Newsted
Heaven Holds a Place for Those Who Pray, Jason Newsted. Courtesy of Jason and Nicole Newsted

“Images built from opposite influences and common attractions bring us closer,” Jason says of the couple’s opposing styles, displayed side by side. He adds that many of the works were created while “mending from disjointed pandemic years.”

The Highland Cow Is Not Amused, Nicole Newsted. Courtesy of Jason and Nicole Newsted
The Highland Cow Is Not Amused, Nicole Newsted. Courtesy of Jason and Nicole Newsted

Curator Janeen Mason is excited for guests to see the Newsted show and eager to show off the center’s revamped gallery space, which was renovated during the pandemic. “Art is an agent of change,” says Mason, noting that art can provide solace during challenging times. 

Jason will also host a solo benefit concert in the gallery February 11, starting at 7 p.m. (Tickets are limited, so be sure to purchase them online in advance.) “Like Mind” is free for Lighthouse ArtCenter members, and a $5 donation is recommended for nonmembers.

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