"Think Big" by Elizabeth Ventura
2025-01-30, 2025-01-31, 2025-02-01 | Atrium Art Gallery, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, 33618, United States
Creating large works requires not only exaggerated gestures, sweeping brush strokes, and thick paint but also broader, simpler concepts that can be seen and understood from a distance. Big work means tapping into big dreams.
I thought about bold colors, distinct shapes, a mix of organic and structured elements to create a noticeable presence.
Think Big was jump-started by a conversation with a group of women of a certain age that centered on the “cultural invisibility” of older women. Think Big says “I’m here and I still have something meaningful to say.”
– Elizabeth Ventura

"One Race, One Face" by Sal Patalano
2025-01-30, 2025-01-31, 2025-02-01 | Lobby Art Gallery, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, 33618, United States
In the heart of Florida’s bustling streets, amidst the cacophony of daily life and overlooked corners of society, my lens finds its true calling. I am Sal Patalano, a street portrait photographer whose work delves deep into the visceral tapestry of human existence. My art is not just about capturing images; it is about narrating the untold stories of resilience, despair, and the unyielding dignity of those often relegated to the shadows of our gaze.
Driven by an insatiable desire to confront the raw reality of life, my photography ventures beyond the superficial veneer of society. Each
frame is a poignant exploration of the human condition, a candid portrayal of the harsh realities faced by those who find themselves battling substance abuse, mental illness, or the relentless sting of homelessness. My subjects are not just subjects; they are individuals whose stories of struggle and survival are frequently ignored or silenced by a society that deems them unwanted.
Through my lens, the streets transform into an open stage without doors to close or curtains to draw. This unfiltered exposure lays bare the stark truth of existence for many, in a world where privacy is a privilege they cannot afford. My work seeks to dismantle the barriers of indifference, inviting viewers to confront the discomfort of acknowledging these harsh truths.
The essence of my photography lies not in exploiting pain, but in amplifying the silent cries for recognition and respect that emanate from the fringes of our communities. It is a call to acknowledge the inherent dignity of every individual, regardless of their circumstances. By casting light on the darkened alleys of society, my aim is to foster a deeper understanding and empathy towards those who are often dismissed as ‘unwanted’ by the mainstream.
In this journey, my camera is both a witness and a storyteller, chronicling the unseen and unspoken with a hope to raise awareness and inspire action. Through the stark, unapologetic portrayal of reality, my work aspires to challenge perceptions, provoke thought, and ultimately, catalyze change.
As an artist, I am committed to using my craft to unveil the beauty and tragedy of life on the streets, inviting viewers to look beyond their own worlds and consider the broader human experience. It is in this space of visibility and recognition that I believe true understanding and compassion can flourish.
My photography is more than an artistic endeavor; it is a relentless pursuit of truth, a homage to the strength of the human spirit, and a plea for a more inclusive and compassionate society.
– Sal Patalano

Mike King, artist
2025-01-30, 2025-01-31 | Corridor Art Gallery, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
“I have been painting and drawing for over 60 years now. My mother got me my first set of watercolors when I was nine. She recognized my ability and encouraged me to take up art. I like watercolor for its wonderful way of capturing light, mood, atmosphere, and color brilliance.
I have been represented by Nuance Galleries of Tampa. Corporate collectors of my art include South Atlantic Capital, the University of Tampa, Miller Brewing (Tpa), St. Joseph’s Hospital, Tampa General Hospital, and Prince Norodom Sihanouk of Cambodia. Private collectors have enjoyed my work for many years.”
– Mike King

"Inheritance" by Tracey (Artist) Jones
2025-01-30, 2025-01-31 | Art Corner Art Gallery, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, F, 33618, United States
As the great-great granddaughter of famous Chester County painter, Ida Ellen Ruth Jones, my work draws from a distinct family history of diverse creativity and cultural pride. At an early age I began illustrating and quickly became aware that art would be the lifeblood of my future. My family often traveled across the world which allowed me to draw artistic perspectives from many cultures and lifestyles.
In high school, digital content was starting to boom and there was a pressing need for artistic designers. I was encouraged by my guidance counselors and mentors to use my creative skills to earn a career in graphic design. Over the years I have risen in the ranks as a notable designer but often find that the status quo limitations of business tend to limit my ability to do outside-the-box creative projects.
I began painting to get away from the tight constraints of the business world. Painting taught me to expand my perceptions and to have a keen balance of patience and steadfastness in my work. Blending my skills as a graphic designer and as a painter has broadened my creative portfolio into sculpting, printmaking and digital art.
My goal as an artist is to create, educate and inspire my fellow creatives to always push beyond our limits.
– Tracey Artist Jones

Rehearsal: New Horizons
2025-01-30 09:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | The Studio, 13345 Casey Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
More Info

Mudslinger Studio Pass
2025-01-30 10:00 - 12:30 | Ceramics / Pottery Studio, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
Mudslingers Clay Open Studio Pass grants unlimited access during Open Studio Hours during a current six-week session.
Click here to view class details and registration information.

Intermediate Tai Chi
2025-01-30 14:00 - 15:00 | Dance Studio, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
Strengthen your mind, body, and soul with this Intermediate Tai Chi class, an extension of Beginner Tai Chi.
Click here to view class details and registration information.

Intermediate Belly Dancing
2025-01-30 15:00 - 16:00 | Dance Studio, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
Students will learn to choreograph with veils and canes and how to make music with finger cymbals.
Click here to view class details and registration information.

Intermediate & Advanced Hand Building
2025-01-30 15:00 - 17:30, 2025-01-31 10:00 - 12:30 | Ceramics / Pottery Studio, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
Intermediate and advanced pottery students have already learned and practiced a variety of hand-building techniques and are ready to kick their skills up a notch!
Click here to view class details and registration information.

Kids Ballet
2025-01-30 16:00 - 17:00 | Dance Studio, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
Whether your child has previously taken ballet or is new to it, this class will be fun and teach them the basics.
Click here to view class details and registration information.

Drawing Class for Teens
2025-01-30 16:30 - 18:00 | Art Room I, 4537 Lowell Road, FL
This six-week drawing class is designed for teens ages 11 to 13 who are excited to explore their creativity and enhance their drawing skills.
Click here to view class details and registration information.

Ballet for Life
2025-01-30 17:00 - 18:15 | Dance Studio, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
A ballet class to help you live your best life.
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American Sign Language
2025-01-30 18:00 - 19:00 | Meeting Room II, 4537 Lowell Road Tampa, Fl 33618
This class is designed to practice basic conversational skills, fingerspelling, numbers, and simple sentence structures, as well as receptive and expressive language skills.
Click here to view class details and registration information.

Beginner Hand Building
2025-01-30 18:00 - 20:30 | Ceramics / Pottery Studio, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
Students will be introduced to the hand building of pinch, coil, and slab and basic design techniques to create functional and non-functional clay objects.
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Shakespeare's Oz Rehearsals
2025-01-30 18:00 - 21:00 | Community Room, 4537 Lowell Road

Teen Design & Paint Mural
2025-01-30 18:15 - 20:30 | Art Room I, 4537 Lowell Road, FL
This class offers teens an enriching opportunity to engage in public art while learning from professionals.
Click here to view class details and registration information.

Intermediate Latin Dancing
2025-01-30 18:30 - 19:30 | Dance Studio, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
Latin Dancing has many different styles Salsa, Merengue, Cha-Cha, Bachata, and Bolero. All Latin dances are sensual, fun, and energetic. This class will study a little of each!
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Rehearsal: Steel Magnolias
2025-01-30 19:00 - 21:00 | Main Theatre, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa FL 33618, FL

"Origins & Beginnings" Art Exhibition
2025-01-31, 2025-02-01 | Gallery at Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa FL 33618
Where did you come from? What started your journey? What’s your foundation, your base? What do you return to when things don’t go your way? How did you get where you are today?
Origins & Beginnings is about looking deeply, noticing, and sharing what is found.
(Pictured: “Humbled Beginnings” by Willow Wright)
Winning Pieces

Hand Building
2025-01-31 13:00 - 15:30 | Ceramics / Pottery Studio, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States

Learn to Read Music (in-person)
2025-01-31 15:30 - 17:00 | Meeting Room II, 4537 Lowell Road Tampa, Fl 33618
Explore and master the symbols that express mood and flow in any piece of music.
Click here to view class details and registration information.

Jazz with Jim featuring musician Melissa Petrescue
2025-01-31 19:30 - 21:00 | Main Theatre, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa FL 33618, FL
The Jazz Directions will open their 2025 season with special guest Melissa Petrescue.
Jazz with Jim is an ongoing concert series at the Center hosted by Jim Burge (saxophone/flute/clarinet), Ron Delp (keyboard), Jeff Henson (drums), and Todd Jeferies (bass)—together, they are The Jazz Directions. Each concert is unique as The Jazz Directions share stories and some of their favorite musical selections appropriate for the evening’s theme.
Melissa Petrescue
Melissa Petrescue is a professional artist, performer, and music director, born in Vancouver, Canada — and currently residing in the greater Tampa Bay area. Growing up in a musical family, Melissa began vocal and piano education at a young age, competing in both local and state-wide competitions, and continued her musical studies, as well as acting training through the years with several reputable teachers. Getting her start at Busch Gardens, Melissa performed in a variety of themed shows for several years, launching her into the entertainment industry, where she has submerged herself in a wide range of styles, from classical to musical theatre, jazz, and world music.
So, please sit back with a nice cup of coffee or soda while nibbling on some tasty treats and enjoy an evening with The Jazz Directions.

Reserved VIP Seating: $15 member / $20 general admission
General Seating: $13 member / $18 general admission

This event has reserved seating. Online processing fees apply.
