We're proud to share a major moment for Justin Gaffrey — a new cover feature in Emerald Coast magazine.

Heavy Layers — Justin Gaffrey's Lifelong Pull Toward the Spaces In Between, written by Carrie Honaker and featuring portrait photography by Sean Murphy, is available now. (Yeah!)

A sculptural painter rooted in 30A, Justin opens a window into the making of LIMINAL, his recent exhibition that explores the tension between illusion and reality. Honaker captures this space with poetic clarity:

“Thick paint rises from the canvas surface. Metal pierces through pigment. Swamps, forests, garden gnomes, deer, and alligators exist somewhere between folk art and dreamscape.

Alongside the story, Sean Murphy presents a striking series of intimate portraits—quiet, direct, and deeply human. The photographs reveal an artist grounded in place and process, offering a glimpse into the life behind the work: a home-turned-gallery, years of experimentation, and a practice shaped by the landscapes of South Walton.

When Justin speaks about painting, his connection to the land becomes unmistakable:

“I’m walking right now—out near my house, off Hogtown Bayou. It’s probably the most beautiful spot in our area, outside the river. There’s no development. It’s pure Florida.”

This feature story captures more than an artist at work—it reflects a life built around making, family, and a deep relationship to the Gulf Coast.

We’re grateful to be included in this issue of Emerald Coast and honored by the thoughtful storytelling. Special thanks to publisher McKenzie Burleigh, writer Carrie Honaker, and portrait photographer Sean Murphy for bringing this piece to life.

The April issue of Emerald Coast is available now. Read the complete article here.

To celebrate this special occasion, Justin Gaffrey warmly invites collectors, friends, and the community to a special launch party at Justin Gaffrey Gallery on May 14 from 5 PM to 8 PM. Join us in celebrating this milestone and experiencing Justin’s latest works firsthand. If you can, please RSVP on Facebook.