Beaux Arts Gallery Returns to Winthrop Town Center

Residents are invited to explore the works of various artists while enjoying live music, wine and hors d'oeuvres when the Beaux Arts Gallery at 11252 Winthrop Main St. in Winthrop Town Centre, Riverview, officially reopens this Thurday, July 28, from 7-9:30 p.m.

The brainchild of Winthrop Town Centre artist Bryant Martinez, the Beaux Arts Gallery, located on the south side of the St. Petersburg Times Building, hosted 10 exhibits of works by local artists in 2009-10.

Now Martinez, with the help of Plant City artist Debra Bryant, is reviving the shows in the newly renovated gallery starting this month. Events, with live music and refreshments, will continue on the last Thursday of each month from 7-9:30 p.m.

"This will be an opportunity to meet the artists and learn a little bit about them and their motivations to create," said Martinez.

Bryant said she's excited to be able to help host the shows featuring artists from throughout the area and possibly from around the country.

"We're hoping to bring in artists from other parts of the county to do exhibits and lectures as well," said Bryant.

This first show will feature Bryant's works as well as works by her photographer husband, Mike, Plant City sculptor Robert Woods and guest artist Katherine Reina of Brandon.

Bryant, an active member of the Greater Brandon Arts Council, works mostly in oils, though she occasionally delves into acrylics, watercolors and colored pencils.

Mike Bryant specializes in Florida nature and macro photography.

Woods is a metal sculptor who has created massive pieces of public art as well as pieces for private collectors.

And Reina, who works at the Sketch n' Sip Gallery located in the same building as the Beaux Arts Gallery, is a mixed media artist.

"We haven't lined up all of the guest artists for future shows, yet," said Bryant.

However, she said plans include a display of children's artwork during the month of December.

The Beaux Arts Gallery events are free. For information, call 813-438-3844 or e-mail beauxarts11252@gmail.com.