North Tampa Library Show Highlights Work Of Life Enrichment Artists

Local artists are taking a bow this month at Carrollwood’s North Tampa Branch Library where their work is being showcased in the Jan Platt Traveling Art Show.

The show includes 16 paintings in various media, and will be on display through the end of September at the library, 8916 North Boulevard.

A traveling exhibition, the show features art work by members of the Life Enrichment Center and is named in honor of the center’s board member and long-time Hillsborough County commissioner Jan Kaminis Platt.

The name is fitting, says Ronna Metcalf, executive director of the center, 9704 North Boulevard.

“Jan would always comment on the quality of the artwork the students were creating when she would come to board meetings at the center," said Metcalf.  "‘You really need to get this work out in the community so more people can see it,’ she would say. So, when we came up with the traveling art show, we named it after her.

"She has always been a great supporter of the center and the arts.”

The show has been drawing rave reviews since it started touring more than a year ago, and Platt isn’t in the least surprised.

“The artwork is first-rate,” said Platt, who has several pieces produced by Life Enrichment Center Artists in her own home. “For years, we had a chance to view the artwork, but no one else did. But, now the whole community can see the work. I guess they named it after me because I gave them such a hard time about creating a show."

The former county commissioner is also happy to see the artwork at the show will be available for purchase.

“I would encourage people to go see these pieces and buy some for their home or office. You really won’t find more beautiful pieces of art out there.”

Sandy McDaniel, a New Tampa artist, is one of the artists whose work is part of the show.

“I love being part of the show. Although I paint for myself it’s always nice to hear comments from people,” said McDaniel, who has been painting art at the center for five years.

“We have a mecca at the center for great artists. There are some very talented people there not just the teachers but the students.”

Bill Bellgraph’s work is also showcased in the show.

“I am proud to get my work in and let it be seen. It’s always gratifying to see people enjoy your work,” said Bellgraph, who has been painting for more than a decade.

“There are some very good artists at the center," he said. "I always learn something. It’s a great group of people who share their work and talents.”

The show will travel to various locations throughout the year, including the county libraries. Paintings in the show are also available for purchase. A portion of the proceeds of sales benefits the Life Enrichment Center, a private, non-profit organization.

The adult artists who attend classes at the Life Enrichment Center range in age from their 50's to their 90's.  The center offers a creative outlet to adults who may never have had the time or the opportunity to explore their talents.

More than 40 academic, creative and health and wellness classes are offered at the Center throughout the year.

For more information about this exhibition or the Life Enrichment Center, contact Metcalf at 813-932-0241 or visit the Center’s website.