Our History
The Clearwater Arts Foundation has been involved in numerous projects in the community.
2009:
Hispanic Heritage Month, Artist Reception/Talk, September 23, 2009
An art exhibit celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month was on view at the Carnegie Gallery at the Clearwater Main Library. The exhibit featured the dynamic and colorful cut paper works created by Cecilea Lueza. Born in Misiones, Argentina, Lueza gave an artist talk, discussing her life and works. The reception was sponsored by the CAF.
Creative Aging Workshop, August 19, 2009
Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater, Florida
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Gene Cohen, Director of The George Washington University Center on Aging Health and Humanities and the National Endowment for the Arts. Dr. Cohen explored the positive health impacts of creativity, creating connections, discovering resources and developing programs.
Presented by the Partners for Creative Aging in Pinellas County in cooperation with the National Center for Creative Aging and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Clearwater High School Art Awards, May 19, 2009
Clearwater High School’s annual “End of the Year Art Show” on May 19. Dunedin Fine Arts Center joined CAF in providing over $900 in funds to award students for their art entries. DFAC Assistant Executive Director Ken Hannon was there to present the awards and Catherine Bergmann, DFAC Arts Curator & Director of Adult Education devoted a good deal of her time to help with the judging.
The Principal's Breakfast, February 6, 2009
The 4th annual Clearwater Schools Principal's Breakfast was held from 7:30-8:30 a.m. at Clearwater Main Library. Special guests included the Mayor, Councilmembers and Pinellas County Schools' Catherine Fleeger, Deputy Superintendent, Area Superintendents and Kay Campbell of Pinellas County Arts Council. The topic was "The Arts are Alive in Clearwater Schools". It was a great success!
2008:
Advocacy Workshop, October 10, 2008
The Clearwater Arts Foundation, Pinellas Cultural Foundation and Pinellas County Cultural Affairs presented an "Advocacy Workshop" on Friday, October 10 at the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, Pinellas Park.
The workshop provided information on how board leaders can be active partners in sustaining and advancing arts and cultural resources. Topics included: current arts-related issues (state and local), best practices for effective advocacy, advocacy timelines and IRS rules for lobbying activities by 501(c)3 groups.
Sherron Long, Director of the Florida Cultural Alliance
Jay H. Dick, Director of State and Local Government Affairs
Helen Levine, Policy & Communications Advisor, USF Office of President
Betsy Collins, Legislative Asst. to Senator Dennis L. Jones, D.C.
Wayne Garcia, Political Editor, Creative Loafing
Sallie Parks will serve as facilitator, and Rep. Bill Heller will provide wrap-up.
The September Concert, September 11, 2008
Inspired by the opportunity of speading peace through music, Sister Cities International encourages communities across the globe to fill the skies with music every Sept. 11th. Clearwater's celebration will start on the steps of City Hall at 6 p.m. and conclude with a community concert at the Peace Memorial Church. Participants will include local music groups (Tampa Bay Golden Strings Youth Orchestra, The Hellas Dancers of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Life Force Cultural Arts Academy and Dunedin Highland Middle School Band).
This event is sponsored by City of Clearwater, Clearwater Arts Foundation and Sister Cities International.
Clearwater High School Art Show, May 21, 2008
Clearwater Arts Foundation sponsored awards for Clearwater High School's annual Student Art Show. The students of Marcia Reybitz and Clay Burkey classes participated in this art show. The awards were presented by Arts Education members Jai Hinson.
Skycrest Elem. "Night of the Arts", April 17, 2008
Clearwater Arts Foundation joined the City of Clearwater Cultural Affairs Division as a sponsor of this event. The evening offered exhibits & demonstrations, student artwork auction, orchestra & chorus performances. Funds were raised to support Skycrest's art-infused curriculum. The primary result of the event was the development of a rewarding partnership with the students, staff and administration of the school.
2007:
Help to Artist in Need, December 2007
On December 9, 2007 a tragic event took place at the Imago Art Colony in Dunedin. An arson fire engulfed the gallery on Douglas Street. Estimated damage was well over $500,000. Among the ruin were over 15 local artist's life work. The tragedy is how do you put a price on the emotional and potential value of the hundreds of drawings, paintings, sculptures, jewelry and other works lost? "These artists make a living from this, and they have no place to work now", said Carole Rosefelt, 72, a painter who was trying to recover some of her pieces. Denis Gaston was another artist who lost much of his works.
At the Clearwater Arts Foundation December Board meeting, members voted to donate $2,000 to the artists through PAVA (Professional Association of Visual Artists).
Hispanic Art Reception, September 20, 2007
Hispanic and Latino artist displayed their works at a free public reception from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, September 20, at Clearwater City Hall, 112 S. Osceola Avenue. Art work remained on display through November 30. The exhibit was sponsored by the cultural committee of the Alianza Hispana de la Bahia de Tampa, or Hispanic Alliance of Tampa Bay, an organization that promotes the works of more than 120 Hispanic and Latino artists and more than 40 not-for-profit organizations. The reception was sponsored by City of Clearwater and the Clearwater Arts Foundation.
The September Concert, September 11, 2007
This years program was held at the City Hall steps at 6 p.m., followed by a procession to Peace Memorial Church. Several groups and a number of churches participated this year. The program included: youth component-Life Force Academy drummers and dancers, Clearwater Fire Department color guard, Restoration Village Ministry Choir Duncan McMillan, piano solo, and choir performances. Rabbi David Weisman gave the message at this year^s concert. He and his wife Rabbi Danielle Upbin were part of the Chaplin^s of the American Red Cross who bestowed support following the September 11 tragedy. The city, the Clearwater Arts Foundation and Clearwater Sister Cities Inc. jointly sponsored this event.
The Pinellas Youth Symphony, May 30, 2007
The Clearwater Arts Foundation was proud to be among the sponsors of the following event..." "With A Song In My Heart", featuring Daniel Rodriquez, tenor. This was a special concert to aid The Pinellas Youth Symphony, The Florida Orchestra. Held at Ruth Eckerd Hall on May 30, 2007.
Clearwater High School Art Show, May 3, 2007
Clearwater Arts Foundation sponsored awards for Clearwater High School^s annual Student Art Show. The students of Marcia Reybitz and Clay Burkey classes participated in this art show. The awards were presented by Arts Education members Jai Hinson and Robin Popp.
Skycrest Elementary "Night of the Arts", April 17, 2007
Clearwater Arts Foundation joined the City of Clearwater Cultural Affairs Division as a sponsor of this event. The evening offered exhibits & demonstrations, student artwork auction, orchestra & chorus performances. Funds were raised to support Skycrest^s art-infused curriculum. Vice Mayor Doran was in attendance. The primary result of the event was the development of a rewarding partnership with the students, staff and administration of the school.
2007 Women of Distinction at Luncheon, March 27, 2007
The Girl Scouts of Suncoast Council 2007 Women of Distinction Recognition Luncheon was held Tuesday, March 27, at noon at A La Carte Event Pavilion in Tampa. This year’s Women of Distinction are Maria Cantonis of Clearwater, a volunteer and advocate for arts education; Beverly Austin of Tampa, a longtime community volunteer; Shelley Broader of Tampa, President and CEO of Sweetbay Supermarket; and Thelma Rothman of St. Petersburg, co-founder and Chair of Kane’s Furniture.
Actress, producer, author, and social activist Marlo Thomas was the guest speaker. The Women of Distinction Luncheon is held each year to recognize local women who have achieved success in their chosen field, contributed to the community, and served as role models for girls. The program began in 1992.
Salon Night - Paul Taylor Dance Company, January 9, 2007
On Tuesday, January 9, Creative Tampa Bay sponsored a free Salon Night to see a lecture demonstration by the premier dance company Taylor 2. Taylor 2 was established in 1993 so that Paul Taylor could ensure his work would be seen all over the world. The company consists of six professionals who perform dances that have been re-worked from the Paul Taylor Dance Company’s version to enable the smaller ensemble of dancers to perform them. The event was held in the Murray Studio Theater at Ruth Eckerd Hall from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. The Salon Night is presented by Creative Tampa Bay, The Marcia P. Hoffman Performing Arts Institute, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Florida Arts and Culture-Division of Cultural Affairs, City of Clearwater and Pinellas County Cultural Affairs.
2006:
Pinellas All-County Chorus & Orchestra, November 13, 2006
CAF co-sponsored this event at Ruth Eckerd Hall. The concert showcased over 425 Pinellas County students from local middle schools, high school choral students and orchestra students all performing various musical venues. This event brought in over 1,000 patrons. Mayor Hibbard gave the opening welcome. Councilmember Doran attended.
The September Concert, September 11, 2006
Through the local support of the Cultural Affairs Division and CAF (through CAF Education Committee) a celebration was held at 5:30 p.m. at Peace Memorial Presbyterian Church. Participants included local music groups, area school children and community groups. The St. Petersburg Times published an article about the event in September 12 newspaper. This successful program also sponsored by Sister City International, will continue as an annual activity.
Francis Wilson Playhouse, September 6, 2006
A benefit performance of the romantic comedy, "The Second Time Around", was held at the Frances Wilson Playhouse, 302 Seminole Street, Clearwater. Doors opened at 7 p.m. for a wine and cheese reception in the playhouse lobby. Proceeds help benefit the Clearwater Arts Foundation.
The Principal's Breakfast, August 23, 2006
The 3rd annual Clearwater Schools Principal's Breakfast was held at St. Petersburg College-Clearwater Campus, Crossroads Building. Special guests included the Mayor, City Manager, Councilmembers, June Hinkley from Florida Department of Education, Pinellas County Schools Superintendent, Area Superintendents and Kay Campbell of Pinellas County Arts Council. It was a great success!
Out of the Blue Visual Arts Show, May 19-21, 2006 
The third annual "Out of the Blue Festival of Art" was held at the Harborview Center on May 20-21, 2006. This outstanding fine art and fine craft exhibition is presented by the Professional Association of Visual Artists, in partnership with the Clearwater Arts Foundation, City of Clearwater and Main Street Clearwater. Through the collaboration of CAF members additional "Purchase Awards" were established. Purchase Award sponsors personally picked out a work of art during a special "VIP Preview Party" on the evening of May 19 prior to the actual event. The purchase awards guaranteed a certain amount of sales for the artists. It proved to be successful for artists and patrons alike.
Ross Norton Park Dedication, May 17, 2006 
An official dedication of Public Art Sculpture "Risk" by Alex McKnight. Elected officials, sponsors, art supporters and neighborhood residents attended. Artist - Alex McKnight, a bay area artist was selected for this project because of his artistic achievements and his commitment to youth development through the arts. Mr. McKnight has participated in an artist residency at the Ross Norton Complex through the Youth Arts Corps.
FUN ^N SUN Pre-parade Reception & Art Exhibit, May 6, 2006
At the Atruim, 600 Cleveland Street. Exhibition by Clearwater Artists.
Clearwater HS Principal^s Appreciation Breakfast, April 27, 2006
CAF was recognized for support of the Annual Art Show.
Clearwater High School Art Show, April 24-25, 2006
Clearwater Arts Foundation sponsored awards for Clearwater High School's annual Student Art Show. The students of Marcia Reybitz and Clay Burkey classes participated in this art show. The awards were presented by Arts Education Chair Maria Cantonis.
Skycrest Elementary "Night of the Arts", April 18, 2006
Clearwater Arts Foundation joined the City of Clearwater Cultural Affairs Division as a sponsor of this event. The evening offered exhibits & demonstrations, student artwork auction, orchestra & chorus performances. Funds were raised to support Skycrest's art-infused curriculum. Mayor Hibbard and Councilmember Doran were in attendance. The primary result of the event was the development of a rewarding partnership with the students, staff and administration of the school.
Cultural Carousel Ball, April 1, 2006
Dr^s. Kiran & Pallavi Patel of the Foundation for Global Understanding hosted the 2006 Cultural Carousel Ball on Saturday, April 1 at the Tampa Convention Center. The evening festival offered a Global Bazaar, interesting and unusual foods, entertainment and a silent auction. The Board of Directors of the Patel Foundation for Global Understanding selected Clearwater Arts Foundation as one of the charity recipients of this fundraiser.
Downtown Farmers Market, January 2006
In January, the Downtown Framers Market once again designated CAF as the recipient of its Super Soup day.
Public Art & Design Advisory Board
One of the provisions of the Public Art Ordinance was the establishment of a Public Art & Design Advisory Board to oversee a public art program. The Board consists of seven members with one member from the Clearwater Arts Foundation and will provide the process by which the City shall integrate a wide variety of public art and design into the community creating a sense of place and increasing the quality of life for residents and visitors of Clearwater. The first meeting will take place in May 2006.
2005:
Clearwater Adopts Public Art Ordinance, October 6, 2005
Clearwater City Council adopted a Public Art and Design Ordinance. The ordinance will require eligible city capital improvement projects and private development projects to allocate a percentage of their construction costs for public art. The ordinance will affect projects beginning in October 2006. View ordinance by clicking here.
City Players’ Guys and Dolls: July 29-31, 2005 and Carousel: July 17-18, 2004
The Foundation assisted City Players in fundraising for these two well-received productions. Each production included 120 volunteers, including performers, musicians and backstage workers and 3,000 audience members at Clearwater’s prestigious Ruth Eckerd Hall. This is the only opportunity for community theater performers to experience working at Ruth Eckerd Hall, and the ticket price allowed many to attend a Broadway scale musical at the Hall who normally could not.
Out of the Blue Visual Arts Show: May 2004 and 2005
Each year, approximately 2,400 spectators had the opportunity to see and purchase the work of fine artists. CAF sponsored the “Best of Show" prize of $2,000, which helped attract high-quality artists to participate in this juried show. This was a partnership between the City of Clearwater, the Professional Association of Visual Artists and CAF.
2004:
ARTistry Showcase: April 12, 2004
Youth from Clearwater High School and Oak Grove Middle School participated in a showcase of visual arts, as well as musical theatre, band and chorus performances at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Parents, teachers, principals and members of the community attended the event. The event validated the importance of arts education and funding of extra-curricula activities in Clearwater’s schools. This was a partnership between the Pinellas County School System, the City of Clearwater, and CAF.
Clearwater Arts Foundation Launched Teaching Tool, August 18, 2004.
The Education committee coordinated and distributed a tool to help connect Clearwater teachers and artists to provide the highest quality arts experiences for students through performances and artist residencies in the schools.
The tool is a Teachers’ Resource Packet, which includes information on planning, sources for possible funders, suggested questions to ask potential artists, and evaluation forms. The Teachers’ Resource Packet is also available by clicking here.
The Clearwater Arts Foundation’s Arts Education Committee has representatives from the Pinellas County School System, Pinellas County Arts Council, Ruth Eckerd Hall, The Florida Orchestra, Dunedin Fine Arts Center, Dundu Dole, St. Petersburg College, Clearwater Cultural Affairs Division, and members of the community. Email info@clearwaterartsfoundation.org.
“This is an absolutely wonderful partnership," said Jeanne Reynolds, who is the Music and Theater Supervisor for Pinellas County School System and a member of the Arts Education Committee.
2003:
Lights Out Poster Contest, 2003
Foundation members sponsored and judged the Clearwater Marine Aquarium "Lights Out For Turtles" Poster Contest. All Entries were from St. Paul's School 3rd - 5th Grade
2000-2001:
The Clearwater Collectible, 2000 and 2001
The Clearwater Arts Foundation created the first annual collectible which featured one of Clearwater’s most unique artists, Sunset Sam, a bottlenose dolphin who resided at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. This pewter ornament, designed by Ginger Meidel, was so popular with residents and visitors that the limited edition quickly sold out. This year’s collectible was designed by Bruce Kotchey and features "Tootie the Turtle", a jazz swingin’ saxophonist! The collectible honored Clearwater’s Jazz Holiday. A limited number are still available and can be purchased by calling Margo Walbolt, 727-562-4809 at the City Parks and Recreation Department.
Garden Avenue Park, 2001
The Clearwater Arts Foundation is proud to have been a part of this project. Through the efforts of the Clearwater Police Department and funding from public and private partnerships, three vacant lots were transformed into a playground for area children.
The Clearwater Arts Foundation contributed a public art project. "Rocky the Turtle" was created with professional artist Pam Marks and neighborhood children. Rocky was featured in the Tour of Turtles and is now a permanent resident at the Garden Avenue Park. This playground partnership with the Clearwater Arts Foundation is prominently mentioned in Law and Order, a law enforcement publication and the Parks and Recreation Staff have submitted articles about the park to professional publications.
Express Diversity, Summer 2001
The City of Clearwater’s Parks & Recreation camp children became familiar with a nationally acclaimed teaching curriculum entitled "Express Diversity". The program utilizes the arts to instill an understanding of the physical and mental challenges many people face each day. While becoming familiar with various art mediums, the children also learn about many successful artists who are also disabled. The Clearwater Arts Foundation contributed art materials in order to make this program available to the summer camps. “Express Diversity" is a program created by and available through VSA arts. www.vsarts.org
A "Chair-it-able" Cause, 2001
The Clearwater Arts Foundation sponsored a "Chair" for the new library. This fundraising project, presented by the Greater Clearwater Public Library Foundation, enlisted the creative efforts of local artists to decorate small Adirondack style chairs that were auctioned at a library benefit. Steve Carlisle designed the Clearwater Arts Foundation’s chair.
"Tour of Turtles" Sponsor, August 2001
The Clearwater Arts Foundation has been an active supporter of this public arts project. The Foundation sponsored a turtle that was designed and painted by nationally known artist Michael Vollbracht. The Foundation was also an integral factor in getting Peter Max involved with the project.
The Clearwater Arts Foundation brought all of the "Turtles" that had been completed to the Harborview Center where they were "unveiled" for public display. The Foundation also sponsored of the published Tour of Turtles book. This exciting endeavor captured the attention of the media, residents, tourists, and art lovers across the country.
Folk Arts Festival, 2000
Several partners sponsored this four-day event. Activities presented a rich variety of folk art traditions, including storytelling, music, crafts, and dance. At a public outdoor event in Coachman Park, thousands of festival-goers were treated to demonstrations of traditional folk crafts, folk music, and storytelling. An evening concert presented the following national recording artists: Trout Fishing in America, the Limeliters’ and Arlo Guthrie.
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