"Spirals Everywhere" brings participation from the region

Artspace Studios and Gallery on Anna Maria Island is preparing to celebrate its one year anniversary with a special event titled "Spirals Everywhere." The whole community is invited to come visit with friends, neighbors and artists during The Artists' Reception scheduled for Friday, March 22 from 5 to 7 p.m.Local, national and international artists are participating in Artspace's challenge to create works of art inspired by the spirals found everywhere in nature. Pinecones, sunflowers, snails, sea creatures, water draining in the sink, hurricanes---the same shape is maintained no matter how large or small it is. Artworks on exhibit represent artists from Anna Maria Island as well as across the United States. International artists represent countries as far away as South Africa, The Netherlands, New Zealand and Croatia.

This event is more than just an art opening---Artspace also invites visitors to participate in a community spiral drawing with VMI Media Group partners and “Art in the Park” artists John Suarez, Jameson Wilkins and Adam Worley. In addition, Cheeta, an Island favorite, will be creating a  spiral wave painting to be auctioned off at the end of the evening.

The team at Salon Salon on Pine: Beauty Boutique & Spa will be offering complimentary hair styling featuring spiral curls.

Shiny Fish Emporium is also creating spiral surprises for guests, and Relish Marketplace on Pine Avenue will prepare "Spiral Snacks" to be served along with champagne and desserts. Live music provided by Stephen Schermerhorn from Cats in the Basement and plenty of door prizes will add to the fun.

Finally, The Dancing Crane Gallery in Bradenton's Village of the Arts is teaming up with VMI Media for a special, cross-promotional surprise.

Artspace is asking visitors to bring their smartphones along to the reception to capture some special technical surprises with a QR code mini-show.

What is Artspace Anna Maria?

Artspace is a unique studio/gallery environment on Anna Maria Island, providing space and encouraging artists to take risks and produce new work. All levels of artistic experience are welcome.

Visitors will see original works in various stages of completion. Resident artists exhibit their work on a regular basis in the gallery as well in various shows nationwide. Studio associates work on special projects inspired by their studio experiences. The door is always open to visitors.

A wide range of activities occur at Artspace, including demonstrations, art receptions, classes and workshops. A range of art supplies are available for use. The community is encouraged to participate in all gallery events, such as "Artspace Challenges," which draw local and international artists as well.

Artspace Anna Maria is located near the Anna Maria City Pier above the Anna Maria Post Office at 101 South Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, FL 34216. For more information, call 941-243-3835, or email i[email protected].