Florida CraftArt presents: Woof, Meow, Chirp and Slither: Artists Interpret the World of Pets

Exhibition Dates: June 7-August 10, 2019Opening Reception: June 7, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Woof, Meow, Chirp and Slither: Artists Interpret the World of Pets is a juried exhibition at Florida CraftArt of original art that showcases artists’ interpretations of the world of pets. From across Florida, 36 artists created over 100 pieces from jeweled cat collars to ceramic dog bowls and sculptures of pets. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet the artists, as well as other art and pet lovers at the opening reception on Friday, June 7 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

In the exhibition visitors will see ‘pawsitively’ inspiring artwork, and enjoy fun, educational programming that show how pets contribute to our health, happiness and longevity.

In the exhibition, some artists pay homage to their pets, such as in the Renaissance-style commentative cameo of “Lexie” created by St. Petersburg artist Kim Tatalik. As the artist’s expertise is in new technology in the art jewelry field, she used PLA Plastic, copper, nickel and paint to create the artwork. Lexie was a whippet who kept the artist company in her studio for more than 16 years. “Lexie had a dedicated bed in my studio,” Tatalik says. “I would be distracted by the beauty of her long, sleek muscular structure, her sweet ears and her really long nose. I often would take breaks and snuggle with her on the floor burying my face in her side.”

Palm Harbor artist Joyce Curvin uses new and recycled materials such as plastic bottles, cardboard, newspaper, scrap wood and leather, old toys, guitar strings, wires and layers of paint to create zany creatures that have attitude and spunk. 

Rosemary Lutz from St. Petersburg is showing whimsical ceramic sculptures, such as “Happiest Cat” and glass-beaded necklaces of cats.

Nationally renowned artist Elizabeth St. Hilaire from Longwood entered the show with two determined-looking bulldogs that she created with a colorful collage technique. 

“Woof, Meow, Chirp and Slither” is a perfect exhibition for the summer which is family friendly with fun and educational events for both art and pet lovers.

Mark Your Calendar for these events set in an artful atmosphere to bring people together with their furry friends.

June 13 at 5:30 p.m.: Join Mayor Kriseman when he lets the’ cat out of the bag’ about the City’s pet friendly initiatives for St Pete PAWS, and meet some fur friends representing shelter partners and services.

June 24, 5:30 – 7 p.m.: You can teach an old dog new tricks! Hear from our panel of local successful businesses who are making a difference by being pet friendly.

July 18, 5:30 – 7 p.m.: CASA nonprofit meet-up with a pack of local pet services and resources.

July 20, 1:30 – 6 p.m.:  SPCA brings a doggone great day of events not to miss, that demonstrates achieving a ‘Better Cities for Pets” certification. 

  • 1:30 – 3 p.m.: Panel discussion and demo, how to help your pet make friends: Positive Training, Doggy Day Care, Good Grooming, Pet Walking and Recreation
  • 3:30 – 5 p.m.: Love at First Bark: Unexpected ways to encounter animals, meet and greet from goat yoga to Alligator Attraction
  • 5 – 6 p.m.: Yappy Hour with ‘Meowgaritas’

July 31, 5:30 – 7 p.m.: Pet Planning Advice: Estate and Pet Planning, Disaster Preparedness, Hospice and more

August 3, 1:30 – 6:30 p.m.: Ask a Pro

  • 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.: Tips for healthy indoor cats
  • 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.: CBD dog health
  • 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.: Responsible breeders
  • 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.: Ask a Vet panel
  • 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.: Yappy Hour for pets and their people

August 10, 5:30 – 7 p.m.: Closing reception. People’s Choice Award and visitors can paint their own Art Rock #MustLovePets                     

The exhibition will be judged by Simone B. DeLoach who has a Bachelor of Arts degree with high honors in Museum Studies, and a minor in Visual Arts from Eckerd College. She also holds a Master of Business Administration degree in marketing and management from the University of South Florida, St. Petersburg. She will present the awards at the opening reception.

Florida CraftArt is located at 501 Central Avenue in St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.FloridaCraftArt.org or call (727) 821-7391. Admission is free. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Florida CraftArt is a nonprofit organization founded in 1951 and headquartered in St. Petersburg. Its mission is to grow the statewide creative economy by engaging the community and advancing Florida’s fine craft artists and their work. Fine craft art is presented in its 2,500-square-foot retail gallery and curated exhibitions are featured in its adjacent exhibition gallery. Florida CraftArt is the only statewide organization offering artists a platform to show and sell their work.

Featured Photo: FCA- Elizabeth St. Hilaire- Bull Dog

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