Inaugural Season for St. Pete Saturday Art Market

May 1, 2008

Nestled on the western shores of Tampa Bay in Southern Pinellas County, St. Petersburg is one of the Sunshine State’s best kept secrets. From November thru April the weather is incredible. As a result the city is a hive of outdoor activity. The St. Pete Saturday Art Market is likely Florida’s only weekly event of it’s kind. Artists from all disciplines hawk their wares under the shade trees in beautiful Williams Park. Part of a local effort to revitalize the park this event is the brainchild Leslie Curran,owner of Interior Motives Gallery. What follows are one plein air painter’s thoughts about the inaugural season.

When I was invited to participate in the Saturday Art Market I was reluctant to say the least. My first impressions were based on Williams Park’s reputation as a campground for the homeless. I also hesitated because, Saturday is usually my day to do whatever I want, no commitments. I finally agreed to try it and was pleasantly surprised. My first day I sold a painting and some prints. I made money and it was easy. In fact I made money every time I participated. The final Saturday was the best.

More importantly I made some new friends. I felt a sense of welcome and commradarie from the diversely eclectic group of regular vendors. I enjoyed my Saturdays spent with the talented and creative people such as Caleb, Laura, Bill, Twin and others. We laughed, joked and otherwise chewed the fat. It was a side of the weekly event I did not anticipate. As a result my artistic vision was stretched beyond it’s normal limit. Were there homeless people in park? Yes, they were just like the people with homes. For the most part friendly, respectful and quick to complement me on my art.

Through my weekly association with the event I also came to see Councilwoman Curran in a new light. I honestly believe that the Saturday Art Market was born out of her sense of enthusiastic support for local artists and a desire to enhance local culture. The event does add something savory to the flavor of life in downtown St. Pete. I can’t wait for November so we can taste another season!

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