Artist uses Gasparilla Festival of the Arts to raise awareness for endangered species
The 55th Annual Gasparilla Festival of the Arts is set to bring together an extraordinary lineup of artists, and this year’s event will shine a special spotlight on Tampa Bay-based artist and wildlife conservationist Sammy Dormio. With a mission that extends far beyond the canvas, Dormio’s work is a compelling fusion of art and advocacy, bringing attention to the urgent need for wildlife conservation.
Sammy Dormio’s passion for endangered species has been a lifelong pursuit. With a Master’s degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, she has dedicated years to scientific research and education. Recognizing the power of visual storytelling, she channeled her expertise into art, founding Wild Planet Creations. This initiative donates 10% of all art sales to organizations committed to protecting endangered species.
BAM Fest! Celebrated History and Culture through Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts benefitting Mahaffey Theater
The Mahaffey Theater Class Acts successfully hosted BAM Fest!, a free outdoor
festival celebrating history and culture through art, on February 19th from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. This
unique event brought together interactive workshops, immersive experiences, and hands-on activities
showcasing the human experience’s rich tapestry
Pure Natural Nail Spa Hosts Pre-Valentine’s Day Event on February 10th
Pure Natural Nail Spa invites you to celebrate love, friendship, and fun at their Pre-Valentine’s Day Event on Monday, February 10th, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Indulge in special packages and exclusive offers to make this Valentine’s season extra memorable for you, your sweetheart, or your best friend!
Bill Edwards Honored with Tampa Bay Lightning Community Hero Award for Exceptional Community Service
The Tampa Bay Lightning has named Bill Edwards, Founder and CEO of Big3 Entertainment and Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts, as the recipient of the prestigious Lightning Community Hero Award for his unwavering dedication to enhancing the lives of individuals and families throughout the Tampa Bay area.
This recognition celebrates Edwards’ outstanding contributions to the community, particularly through his expansion and support of the Mahaffey Theater’s ClassActs Program, which serves more than 25,000 schoolchildren annually.
Energy, power and survival leap out of this year’s featured image “The Fight” by Ashli Harper
Featured in this month’s Tampa Bay Metro Magazine is a spotlight on Tampa Bay artist Ashli Harper and her stunning new design for the 55th Annual Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts 2025. In the feature, Ashli shares the inspiration behind her iconic image and her journey from an emerging artist last year to being chosen by a panel to represent GFA this year.
Altruistic Academy Hosts Friends & Family Event with Free CPR Training December 19th
Altruistic Academy, a leader in beauty and medical education, is thrilled to announce the first installment of its Friends & Family Event Series, launching this December with a particular focus on lifesaving skills. The inaugural event will feature free CPR training for friends and family, conducted by the academy’s Founder and CEO, Christina Sisler.