Artist Talk and New Developments at Morean Arts Center

News Summary

On February 7, 2024, the Morean Arts Center in St. Petersburg will host an artist talk featuring Akiko Kotani, showcasing her exhibition ‘BURST’. The event also promotes redevelopment plans, including a new building to enhance cultural engagement and accessibility, aiming to significantly increase attendance by 2028.

Exciting Developments Unfold at St. Petersburg’s Morean Arts Center

St. Petersburg, get ready for an exhilarating evening as the Morean Arts Center gears up to showcase a special artist talk on February 7, 2024, from 6 to 8 PM. This vibrant event will feature the talented artist Akiko Kotani, whose stunning exhibition titled BURST is turning heads and making waves in the art community.

Experience a Night of Art and Inspiration

The BURST exhibition is nothing short of breathtaking; it features a cascading installation of large, crocheted panels that ripple with vibrant satin waves of color. This installation embodies the power of nature and invites us to explore the captivating interplay between form and color. Attendees of the artist talk will have the unique opportunity to learn about the creative process that brought this awe-inspiring piece to life, while enjoying an exclusive after-hours viewing of the exhibition.

Location? You can find it all happening at the Chihuly Collection, nestled at 720 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Tickets are reasonably priced at $20 for Morean members and $40 for non-members, and the night out includes not just art, but also two complimentary drink tickets to savor as you mingle with fellow art lovers.

A Bright Future for the Morean Arts Center

The Morean Arts Center is also looking to the future with exciting plans for redevelopment. They are proposing the construction of a shiny new five-story building at 719 Central Avenue, which aims to expand facilities and elevate programming. The current 27,000 square foot structure is planned for demolition to make way for the new space, which will integrate the Chihuly Collection, creating a more cohesive and immersive artistic atmosphere.

To help fund these ambitious plans, the Morean has applied for over $15 million in tourist tax dollars, hoping to enhance their offerings and broaden access to the arts. This revitalization is expected to greatly impact the community, increasing annual attendance from 87,000 to an anticipated 98,000 by 2028 and generating an additional 1,000 overnight stays.

Community Support and Cultural Growth

Mayor Ken Welch of St. Petersburg is on board, highlighting the critical role the Arts Center plays in nurturing local talent and fostering cultural engagement across the area. The arts center has a rich history, having served the St. Petersburg community for nearly 100 years, tracing its origins back to the founding of the Art Club of St. Petersburg in 1917. Talk about longevity!

With $115 million in capital reserves ready to fund accepted projects, the Visitor Service and Promotion Commission (VSPC) is ready to back the Morean’s efforts to enhance the arts in St. Petersburg further. The community is buzzing with excitement as these plans are set into motion, promising an enriching environment for art lovers and creators alike.

Get Involved!

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this enlightening evening on February 7th. Whether you are a long-time fan of arts or just looking to explore something new, the Morean Arts Center welcomes you with open arms. This talk is not just an opportunity to engage with phenomenal art but also a chance to witness the next chapter unfold for a beloved institution in the heart of St. Petersburg. Mark your calendars and join fellow art enthusiasts for a night filled with inspiration!