tampa art scene (Orlando: houses, warehouses, budget)

[stormweary]

Was wondering what Tampa's art scene was like? Do they have one? Are there art galleries? Does the community support visual arts in general? Places for studios? ( old warehouses and such) Teaching opportunities ? Is there anyone out there that is plugged into the art scene that can give me a feel for it. I'm currently in Orlando and hope in the coming months to look more into this. Any info greatly appreciated. thanks in advance.

[gypsychic]

No, it really does not. This town supports SPORTS! My hubby works for the county and they barely have a puny budget for any public art, and it was just on the news yesterday how even this had to be "justified."

I'd look elsewhere for an art scene - Tampa has some nice things, but I am a native, and it is one of the least "arts-oriented" places (especially for a larger town) I've seen.

I'd try St. Pete if I were you - much more arts-supported stuff there - great town.

[tampaguy03]

There is a huge emerging arts scene in Tampa, just don't think many people know about it. With over 100 galleries, every weekend there are showings throughout the city. Most of the galleries are located around Ybor City, Channelside, and South Tampa areas.
Check these sites for more Cultural and Art Venues in the City of Tampa and Hillsborough County:
http://www.tampaarts.com/GalleryGuide.aspx
http://tampahappenings.creativeloafi...pe=date&max=10
http://www.tampagov.net/dept_public_art/ (broken link)
http://www.creativetampabay.com/

[gypsychic]

Originally Posted by tampaguy03

There is a huge emerging arts scene in Tampa, just don't think many people know about it. With over 100 galleries, every weekend there are showings throughout the city. Most of the galleries are located around Ybor City, Channelside, and South Tampa areas.
Check these sites for more Cultural and Art Venues in the City of Tampa and Hillsborough County:
http://www.tampaarts.com/GalleryGuide.aspx
http://tampahappenings.creativeloafi...pe=date&max=10
http://www.tampagov.net/dept_public_art/ (broken link)
http://www.creativetampabay.com/

Glad to hear it, TampaGuy - too bad the local government doesn't support it more. I still consider St. Pete to be far "artsier" than Tampa, tho.

[stormweary]

thanks will check those sites out!!

[scorp200]

I agree about St. Pete, it's definitely more arts-friendly. Tampa has its moments. the Creative Tampa Bay link is excellent, that group is plugged into virtually everything going on.