Are you a mermaid fanatic? A fan of fish and the sea? Then Neighborhood Joe has the show for you! “March of the Mermaids” features art from both sides of the bay. Local folk artist, writer and sign artist Rhonda Kay has brought her pithy sayings, fantasy fish and five foot mermaids to decorate this coffee shop walls. Brandy Stark, a wire worker from St. Petersburg, has woven a variety of metal mermaids and intermixed them with award-winning water-themed photography. Outside of their fishy fascinations, both women enjoy unusual hairstyles, the company of pugs, and work bring awareness to pocket pet rescues.
These hydrophilic works are set in local up and coming business, Neighborhood Joe. It is a coffee shop that serves marvelous vegan food. Patrons may choose from locally grown organic teas as well as kombucha. There are gluten-free pastries available for purchase. The atmosphere provides a friendly ambiance and the perfect place to view these naiads of the deep.
The opening reception will also host Ursula, the tarot card reader. This sea-spirit has over 25 years psychic and medium experience and “seas” above and below. She is offering attendees a free five minute reading on a first come first serve basis. All are invited to see what will make waves in the future!
About the artists:
Rhonda Kitchens, RhondaK Native Florida Folk artist has been painting 12 years. While she has done shows mostly in Southwest Florida, she has sold art to collectors in Germany, Japan, Ireland, and Australia. Working with folk art bar and beach signs, she also produces larger works like 6 ft mermaids. Bait shacks, cat angels, dancing crabs, and more. While primarily woking from standard beach tropes, she also brings in her own words, work, and take on the sea life.
Brandy Stark started her wire working career in 1995. She has shown her pieces in local, national and international shows. Her award winning works feature fantasy characters, though mermaids are an often produced theme in her works. She branched out into photography five years ago and has won best of show for her Reflections of a Flamingo as well as winning numerous awards for other works. Her photography has shown in Amalie Arena, Tampa Bay Magazine, and was recently accepted into a show hosted by the John James Audubon Center at Mills Grove.
What: March of the Mermaids, featuring folk art by Rhonda Kay and wire works and photography by Brandy Stark
Where: Neighborhood Joe, 2609 Dr M.L.K. Jr St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704
Dates of Show: March 3 – April 30
Reception: The mid-show reception is Sunday, April 8, 4 – 6 PM. Both artists will be in attendance to answer questions about their works.
Cost: All events are free and open to the public.