Art Show a Big Success for Harborside Studios

Hundreds of people packed Syd Entel Galleries for the fourth annual Special Arts By Special Hands show hosted by UPARC's Harborside Studios on Wednesday, Aug. 14.

There were dozens of pieces up for sale, each created by UPARC students who attend classes at the studio on a regular basis. Food and beverages were provided by Clear Sky Café on Clearwater Beach, and Big Frog Custom Tee Shirts produced shirts featuring the artists’ work.

According to Harborside Studio director Michelle Ault, the fourth edition of the show was a big success. 

“We had an awesome turnout, I think the gallery said there were about 250 people there,” Ault said.

"We sold 69 pieces and raised about $6,400 — more than last year — so the show was a huge success."

One particular success story involved artist Holly Rose.

Rose is trying to raise money for a new wheelchair that will cost around $4,500. So local resident Howard Sachs took it upon himself to help auction off one of her works. 

The painting, a thought-provoking piece titled Morning Catch, wound up selling for $600, lower than Sachs had hoped but better than the original asking price of $400. 

“I’ve been coming here longer than I can remember, probably 20 years," Sachs, who earlier had purchased another painting, said of the gallery. “This event is spectacular.” 

The students also had a great time, receiving praise for their works and relaying stories of how much they enjoy expressing themselves through art.

Peter C., who had almost a dozen paintings in the show and sold a number of them, including one piece that went for more than $300, was especially enthusiastic. 

When asked if he loved to paint, he replied, “Yes! I keep on going and I’m not going to stop.”

Ault wanted to remind people that Harborside, which has been in operation for nine years, is full of excellent art available for purchase, as well as more of the T-shirts that were a hit at the show.

She also noted that 60 percent of the sale price goes to the students, while 40 percent is put towards the studio.

"We have an open door policy here, and we encourage people to come in," she said. "We also encourage donations, volunteers and we have room for more artists, too." 

Harborside Studios

Address: 176 5th Ave. N.

Phone: 727-793-2792

Hours: Mon - Fri, 8am - 4pm