By JESSICA BALANZA

.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

When Westchase neighbors Leah Mondino and Vanessa Montenegro met due to a broken air conditioner little did they know their friendship would lead to the inception of the Westchase Artist Society.

Six months later, the group has about 13 members from across Northwest Hillsborough and recently held its first art show, “Cars and Art,” March 24.

“It’s wonderful how the idea has managed to motivate so many in our area,” said Mondino.

As society members showed off their works of art at The Auto Legend in Oldsmar, the shop’s owner, Mondino’s husband, Massimo, displayed Lamborghinis and Ferraris.

“I think it’s a great combination,” said society member Michael Gaudet. “The two really go together. Cars have been featured in art since they were invented.”

The event held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the 400 Douglas Road E., Suite D, location featured about 15 different upscale cars and 30 works of art. The art included paintings, mosaics, photography and more.

The group decided in December to have the show.

Although members had little turnaround time, many created works of art to go along with the theme of the show, Montenegro said. For example, some incorporated cars into their photos and mosaics were crafted with the Ferrari emblem.

“I normally take pictures that are dramatic and beautiful,” said Jennifer Jones, who included cars in her photos. “I wanted to do something that would resonate with people attending the show.”

Leah Mondino and Montenegro explained the concept for the show was devised with Massimo’s help. The cars, he said, are works of art, as well.

It’s not a car show, it’s more of customer appreciation since cars are also someone’s art, he said.

In fact, all the cars at the event were cars Massimo has repaired at some point.

With its first show complete, the group is hoping to create a trend, and host similar shows about four times a year. For some of the group members this was their first show and their first time actually selling one of their art works.

Leah said thanks to the show four items were sold.

“For me, it’s my first show and it has been a great opportunity to get started and show my work,” said Jeremy Ramos. “The cars are a great expression of art within itself and this is good exposure for the artist.”

Other than shows, the group hosts monthly meetings where members can exchange ideas. Meetings take place the second Thursday of every month at the Upper Tampa Bay Library, 11211 Countryway Blvd., from 7 to 9 p.m. The April 12 meeting features information on photography and will be hosted by Jennifer Jones.

For information, visit http://www.westchaseartists.com.