Creative Pinellas is proud to announce a new fundraising initiative, Still Shining, debuting at this year’s Arts Annual Hurricane Relief Fundraiser on December 7th at The Gallery at Creative Pinellas. Sponsored by Visit St. Pete-Clearwater (VisitSPC), Still Shining showcases the work of 25 Pinellas County artists, each creating a unique 12×12 artwork celebrating the resilience and enduring beauty of the region in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
“Our cultural community is defined as much by its generosity of spirit as it is by the artistic excellence created here,” said Margaret Murray, Creative Pinellas CEO. “To bring both together – in support of a greater good – is truly inspiring.”
The following artists will be taking part in this one-night only exhibition:
Alexandra Wuyke Art, Amber Sparkle Art, Amy Ilic Volpe, Ashley Gierke, Aurailieus, Bailey Gumienny, Chronic Lemon, James Hartzell, Jenipher Chandley, Kenji Takabayashi, Kg Photography, Kostar Kustoms, Mark Williams Art, Matthew Boyle Art, Meatyard, Melissa Borland, Meridian 727, Monica Fay, Perry Devick, Saint Paint, Stephanie Manchester, Sue Solitaire, Summer Elaine Hue, and Ysann Taylor. One more to be announced soon.
Merritt Horan, known for curating group exhibitions at the Bellwether Beach Resort on St. Pete Beach, brings her curatorial vision and expertise to this special project. With VisitSPC’s generous support, Still Shining promises to be a memorable celebration of community spirit and creativity.
“The recent back-to-back storms have left many area artists struggling to find their creative footing,” shared Merritt Horan, Curator for the Still Shining Exhibition. “This exhibition, in part with the Arts Annual Hurricane Relief Fundraiser, offers them a powerful reason to refocus and reconnect with their design processes, bringing hope and healing through art. I’m thrilled to see what these incredibly talented individuals create—it’s a true celebration of resilience and the enduring human spirit.”
The exhibition highlights the strength and creativity of the local arts community, with each piece echoing the theme of “Still Shining.” Unsold art from Still Shining at the fundraiser will be on display at Creative Pinellas’ Pop-Up Gift Shop until January 4, 2025, offering visitors a chance to view and purchase these inspiring works. 80% of net proceeds from art sales will benefit the Creative Pinellas Artist Hurricane Relief Fund, providing direct support to artists affected by recent storms.
“In the aftermath of the impact from two powerful storms in our area, our community is Still Shining bright as an exceptional place to live, work and play,” said Steve Grimes, Visit St. Pete-Clearwater Chief Marketing Officer. “We are excited to join with Creative Pinellas to create an exhibition of unique works of art that capture the essence of Still Shining, the beauty and resiliency of our destination, and to help support our thriving local artist community.”
Tickets for the Arts Annual Hurricane Relief Fundraiser are available at artsannual.org. Join us for an unforgettable evening of art, inspiration, and support for our local artists.
Arts Annual Hurricane Relief Fundraiser
Our beloved arts community, which has weathered budget vetoes and now two historic hurricanes, is in need of your support more than ever. Join us for the Arts Annual Hurricane Relief Fundraiser… Read More
Photo Credit: VisitStPeteClearwater.com Coachman Park in Clearwater, Florida
