We have strategically hired talent experienced in arts + tourism:
Allison McCarthy, Curatorial Director: 10 years at The Dalí Museum; former Executive Director of the Clearwater Arts Alliance; arts consultant to the Florida Department of State.
Maggie Duffy, Editor: Former Tampa Bay Times arts writer, Bay Magazine columnist, and annual contributor to VSPC’s Gulf to Bay destination magazine.
Efficient use of County funds
Tourism Development Tax (TDT): We receive under 1% of the $94M collected in 2024, Creative Pinellas receives less than 1%. We direct those dollars to visitor-facing programs that strengthen Pinellas’s tourism brand and economic impact. Making Waves is a bold new program that brings together our vibrant cultural community and the breathtaking natural beauty of Pinellas County to create a countywide gallery of exhibitions, performances, and arts experiences. A vacation isn’t just about where you go—it’s about what you discover. And here in Pinellas County, Making Waves will harness the power of art and nature to create something truly unforgettable. April – May 2026
Tourism-focused results at no additional County cost
Making Waves: We revamped TDT grants to place arts experiences where visitors naturally gather—beaches, museums, and outdoor destinations—investing ~$120,000 directly into tourism hubs to encourage itinerary building and length-of-stay gains.
Current | Culture (launching Oct. 4): CURRENT | CULTURE is an online magazine that invites visitors to discover the vibrant arts, culture, and creative spirit of Pinellas County. From gallery openings and live performances to hidden cultural gems, it highlights the unique experiences that make our community a must-visit destination. Designed as a traveler’s guide to local culture, it showcases the richness of Pinellas as a place where art, nature, and innovation thrive. With a strategic focus on helping visitors plan and extend stays, Current | Culture’s aim is to strengthen the conversion from interest to attendance.
Accountability, compliance, and value
Clear use of restricted funds: TDT resources are deployed to visitor-facing, tourism-aligned activities consistent with County priorities.
Cost avoidance: Capital upgrades and program expansions are grant-funded, creating long-term value for a County facility without new County expenditures.
