Central Art Supply, a hub of creativity in St. Petersburg.
Pat Jennings, the beloved owner of Central Art Supply, has passed away at 70 after battling esophageal cancer. His legacy lives on in St. Petersburg’s vibrant art scene as a champion for local artists and a supporter of creativity.
St. Petersburg has lost a true legend. Pat Jennings, the beloved owner of Central Art Supply, the city’s oldest art supply store, has passed away at the age of 70 after a brave battle with esophageal cancer. His passing on September 5, 2023, in Bandera, Texas, has left a gaping hole in the hearts of local artists and art enthusiasts alike.
Jennings opened Central Art Supply in 2002, transforming it into a vital resource for artists across the area. Nestled right next to the State Theatre, the store became a key gathering place where creativity flourished. Unlike big box retailers, Jennings ensured his store was stocked with a diverse range of art materials, a treasure trove for anyone with an artistic spirit.
Pat Jennings was much more than a store owner; he was a fierce advocate for the local art community. He took it upon himself to support schools by creating shopping lists and preparing art supplies in advance for students. This generosity significantly boosted the engagement of young creative minds, nurturing future artists who would go on to contribute to the vibrant St. Petersburg scene.
Beyond his support for young talent, Jennings played a pivotal role in establishing St. Petersburg’s first juried art festivals, laying the groundwork for what would become renowned artistic showcases. His dedication to the arts extended to promoting Urban Elements, a street art showcase that highlighted the creativity pulsing through the city’s streets.
One of Jennings’s crowning achievements was his work to elevate mural art in St. Petersburg. He was instrumental in initiatives like the SHINE Mural Festival, a celebration that has only grown in significance over the years. It’s clear that Jennings was not just building a business but fostering an environment where local art could thrive and gain the recognition it deserved.
His former wife Claudia Strano shared that Jennings was a skilled businessman who fostered strong relationships with customers. His ability to connect with the community created a welcoming atmosphere at Central Art Supply, transforming it into a social hub where artists connected and collaborated. Many referred to his store as a mecca for art supplies—a place everyone in the local arts scene considered a second home.
Though Jennings closed the doors of Central Art Supply in 2017, his journey didn’t end there. Following the store’s closure, he embraced a new passion for competitive bicycling while remaining a beloved figure in the local art scene. His enduring commitment to the arts did not go unnoticed; Jennings even donated his artwork to The Studio @620 before leaving St. Petersburg, demonstrating his unwavering support for the cultural landscape he helped to cultivate.
Artists from all walks of life have fond memories of Jennings, describing him as a champion of creativity. Long before St. Petersburg became a vibrant canvas for murals and street art, he believed in the potential of local artists and worked arduously to promote their talents. His contributions ushered in an era of recognition and appreciation for the artistic endeavors of local individuals, creating a lasting legacy that will inspire generations.
The art community in St. Petersburg will always remember Pat Jennings as a beacon of passion, dedication, and creativity. His legacy lives on in every brushstroke, mural, and art piece created in the city—truly a testament to his love for the arts and community.
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