10. Leeston-Smith Building

Gillian Harper is a sculptor and interdisciplinary artist based in St. Petersburg, Florida. Working with cast metals, steel, wood, found objects, and organic matter, her practice explores environmental systems, material transformation, and memory. Raised along the East Coast, she draws on the landscape’s in(uence to investigate ecological resilience and impermanence. Harper earned her B.F.A. from the University of North Florida and her M.F.A. from Louisiana State University. She is committed to collaboration, with fellow artists and the public, as a means of fostering connection and expanding dialogue through sculptural work.

Tides of Time is my way of honoring New Port Richey’s rich history and its constant evolution. Incorporating elements of art deco, the artwork pays homage to the distinctive architectural style that defined the early 20th century, the era during which many of New Port Richey’s most iconic buildings were constructed. The sculptures serve as both a celebration of this historical period and a reinterpretation of it, drawing connections between the past and present. By referencing the geometric lines, vibrant motifs, and bold forms typical of art deco, the work evokes the spirit of a bygone era while simultaneously speaking to the ongoing evolution of the community. Through these miniatures, Tides of Time becomes a tactile gateway to the city’s history, encouraging viewers to pause and reflect on the layers of transformation that have shaped their urban landscape. The installation invites a deeper appreciation of the city’s heritage and fosters a sense of continuity, bridging generations through both art and place.