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Morning light on the St. Johns:

How artist Mark Szwabo found his canvas in Green Cove Springs

Posted 9/3/26

GREEN COVE SPRINGS — As the morning mist lingers over the St. Johns River and the first light filters through the ancient live oaks, Spring Park quietly wakes up. Joggers pass by, birds settle on …

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Morning light on the St. Johns:

How artist Mark Szwabo found his canvas in Green Cove Springs

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Posted Thursday, September 3, 2026 9:35 am

For Clay Today

For Szwabo, a fine artist who relocated from St. Louis, Missouri, this early-morning ritual isn't just about painting—it’s about capturing the soul of his new home.

A new chapter by the river

Leaving behind the Midwestern hum of St. Louis, Szwabo sought a community where art and nature naturally overlap. He found exactly that in Green Cove Springs.

"There’s a unique rhythm to this town," Szwabo said. "Coming from St. Louis, you're used to a different pace and light. But here, especially in the early mornings around Spring Park, the light off the water and the sheer greenery give watercolor a life of its own. It’s hard not to be inspired."

Every morning, locals can find Szwabo set up in Spring Park, working patiently as the natural spring flows toward the river. Watercolor is an unforgiving medium—it demands speed, precision and an intimate understanding of moisture and light—making the shifting morning atmosphere of the park the ultimate studio.

Elevating Clay County’s cultural landscape

While Green Cove Springs has a rich artistic heritage—rooted historically in local community arts and celebrated figures like sculptor Augusta Savage—Szwabo brings a fresh, contemporary approach to local plein-air painting.

By taking his creative process out of a closed studio and directly into public spaces like Spring Park, Szwabo does more than paint scenery—he makes art accessible to the community.

"Having an artist painting live in the park every morning changes how people interact with public space," said one morning regular.

"It invites you to slow down, look at the river a little closer, and appreciate where we live."

What makes Szwabo’s presence innovative locally is his blend of Midwestern perspective with Florida’s natural beauty.

By working outdoors every morning, Szwabo invites curiosity, turning routine morning walks into informal art interactions for residents. His watercolors highlight the historic charm and natural landmarks of Clay County, preserving daily moments in vibrant washes of color.

Szwabo’s work builds a bridge between regional art traditions, bringing a fresh aesthetic voice from the Midwest to Northeast Florida.

Looking ahead

As Szwabo continues to build his portfolio of Green Cove Springs and the surrounding Clay County landscapes, he hopes his work encourages others to see the beauty in their everyday surroundings.

Whether you are catching the sunrise at Spring Park or simply out for an early walk, keep an eye out for the artist with the watercolor palette—capturing the quiet magic of Green Cove Springs, one morning at a time.

How artist Mark Szwabo found his canvas in Green Cove Springs

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How artist Mark Szwabo found his canvas in Green Cove Springs

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