Central Tampa Artists meeting at Starbucks

Susan and I went to a mmeting of local artist at Starbucks last night. Here is Susan's recap as posted on the Central Tampa Artists Group

Last night about a dozen creative types gathered at the new Starbuck's coffee joint. The discussion centered on whether an artist group was needed and if so, for what purpose. It was generally agreed that we had a general interest in finding a space, a large building, to be exact where we could hang out, do our art, sell our art, and hopefully, grow our art. Cindy Hennessy with Moving Current dance company longs for danceable floor space. Chuck Johnson would like space to build his beautiful chairs, and I envision a place where creativity is the theme.

Finding a building is a topic for future meetings. Cindy Hennessy, also on the Art Advisory Council is looking into what help they can give.

The second idea that sprang from the evening was an event that would showcase the artists in Central Tampa. It would be an arts festival featuring all artists, performing, visual, writers, etc. Venues were suggested. They included, Rivercrest Park, Sulphur Springs Tower location.(sorry, don't know the park name), and the Harbor Club at Sulphur Springs. Scott and I agreed to speak to the owners of the Harbor Club about this idea and about holding future meetings there.

I envision us being the next Cuban Sandwich Show. That show is so Tampa without all the glitz and gloss.

Other ideas that were tossed out were fundraising. A calendar was suggested, which would feature individual artist's work on each page. Grants were mentioned and possibly seeking advice from the city's art czar, Paul Wilborn. He should have an interest, right? He lives in Seminole Ht's, right? Has there been a Paul Wilborn sighting in the area?

So, we have interest, we have common goals, where do we go from here?

The next meeting will be Monday, April 24 at 7p.m., place to be announced. Happy Anniversary to Joshua and Petra Sussman. They will be celebrating with a drum circle at their house later this month. If you are lucky enough to know them, perhaps you'll be there. Helen Harmon is showing her work for the first time at the Scarfone Gallery. It will be up for a couple weeks, so stop in and honor her efforts.

More info will be posted or emailed as it comes.