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SRQ DAILY Jan 18, 2019

Friday Weekend Edition

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Friday Weekend Edition

"They'll look, and they'll learn."

- Eleanor Merritt, painter
 

[Visual Arts]  Alfstad& Editions Opens Tonight in the Rosemary District
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

Although Alfstad& Contemporary may have closed its doors, the creative forces behind it remain in the Rosemary, as owner Sam Alfstad and studio manager Chris Schumaker redirect their energies a mere two doors down at the newly opened Alfstad& Editions. A community-minded studio and collaborative space with a special emphasis on printmaking, the versatile undertaking will offer everything from professional printing services to introductory classes—all while serving as exhibition and gathering space for creatives. “It’s all about community,” says Schumaker of this latest venture. “Everybody can learn and make a print and have fun.” And the fun begins tonight with an opening reception from 5pm to 8pm.

Featuring an exhibition of 50 framed prints, as well as a silkscreen demonstration and plenty of works on paper to sift through, Alfstad& Editions’ printmaking focus is front and center from the get-go. And equipped with silkscreens and massive digital printers and all manner of specialized equipment, the truth is that Alfstad& Editions is also itself a print shop all its own. Not merely a place to display prints, within these walls, Schumaker will pursue his own printmaking, collaborate with visiting artists, create commissioned orders and even lead introductory and safety classes for people looking to dip their toes in these inky waters. And for artists who need no introduction or assistance, the machines and space are available for rent.

In large part, that’s what it’s all about—space. Space to create and space to collaborate. Schumaker still remembers trying to make prints at home, exposing silk screens in the shower and washing them with the garden hose out back, and appreciates what it means to have dedicated space available for an aspiring artist. And with four iMac workstations and plenty of room to spare, photographers and other artists can find a place to fit in at Alfstad& Editions as well.

“It’s always a creative space,” says Schumaker. “Whether you want to paint in the courtyard out back, make a print or just talk to other creatives, this is the place.”

Alfstad& Editions opens tonight at 1421 5th Street, with a reception from 5pm to 8pm. 

Pictured: Prints on display at Alfstad& Editions. Photo courtesy of Chris Schumaker.

[Visual Arts]  The Passing of a Painter: Eleanor Merritt
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

The Sarasota-based painter Eleanor Merritt died yesterday, sources say and the artist’s website confirms. She was 86.

Merritt left her mark on Sarasota since her arrival in the 1980s, exhibiting in group and solo shows, as well as becoming involved in the greater arts community and its administration. A longtime member of the Art Uptown artist collective, she exhibited under the big red awning on Main Street, and she showed at ArtCenter Manatee, Art Center Sarasota and Venice Art Center, where she once served as president for a time. A member of Petticoat Painters, one of the oldest continually exhibiting women’s arts groups in the country, Merritt was also the founder of Women Contemporary Artists.

She joined the Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County back when it was called the Sarasota County Arts Council, and served on the board. And she served as chairman of the Public Art Committee when so many pieces of public art were installed outside area libraries in the ‘90s. Somewhere in all this, Merritt found time to sit on the board at the Ringling Museum, where she also volunteered as a docent for 25 years.

In February 2017, the Arts and Cultural Alliance hosted a retrospective exhibition of Merritt’s work, entitled Sixty Years of Painting, 1957–2017. The Center for Arts and Humanity was packed, with attendees lined up out the door, craning their necks to see the artist address the crowd. “It was very special, and empowering,” she told SRQ at the time, before cracking a joke. “I think my name’s known around town.”

Eleanor Merritt: 1933–2019. 

Pictured: Eleanor Merritt at the opening of "Sixty Years of Painting, 1957-2017" in February 2017. Photo by Michael White.

[Imbibe]  Ginuinely Elated
Brittany Mattie, brittany.mattie@srqme.com

Add South African craft gin to your palate's thirsty repertoire. Inverroche Gin debuts in Florida by special request of Co-proprietor Michael Klauber of Michaels on East & Michael’s Wine Cellar—who'll be the first restaurant and retailer to offer all the artisanal spirit’s varieties to the Sunshine state.

Distilled in small batches in a custom-made copper pot still, then bottled and labeled purely by hand, Inverroche comes in three varieties Classic, Verdant and Amber—each with their own distinctive flavor profiles, but all infused with Fynbos botanicals. Haven't heard of this highly aromatic, fine-leaved flora kingdom? That's because it's only found scattered along the coastal dunes and rocky terrain of the southern tip of Western Cape. The distillery attributes its fragrantly smooth, specialty taste to hand-selected bouquets of this native flowery petal, as well as the family estate’s limestone-rich water aquifer and ancient secrets passed down over millennia. 

This exciting debut comes three years in the making, when Klauber first tasted Inverroche with his wife Terri while leading a wine-focused luxury safari journey for clients in South Africa in the summer of 2015. “Gin & Tonic is known as the cocktail of choice when on safari and we’ve been known to enjoy a classic ‘Sundowner’ cocktail with friends while leading our bi-annual Gulf Coast Connoisseur Club trips,” says Klauber. “But I’ll never forget our first sip of a Sundowner with Inverroche while visiting Londolozi Game Reserve. We knew immediately it was a special part of Africa we’d like to offer it to our friends back at home.” Since that pivotal safari ride, Klauber’s been working closely with distributors and importers the last three years to bring Inverroche to our local market. And after a stroke of Good Hope, the “crafted by nature” gin made its way to the Gulf Coast.

So let the evening beGIN with 'The Cape Town Fig Bramble'—the newest handcrafted cocktail at MOE featuring Poire Williams Liqueur, bitters, and yours truly Inverroche Amber Gin—garnished with Allspice-soaked figs and an orange twist to complement the delicate, woody finish. The Cape Town Fig Bramble is available during lunch, happy hour or dinner at the Michael’s On East Lounge or in the Restaurant’s dining rooms for $14. “Gesondheid”. 

Michael's on East, 1212 East Ave. South, Sarasota & Michael's Wine Cellar, 1283 S. Tamiami Trail, Midtown Plaza, Sarasota, 941-366-0007.

Photo courtesy of MOE

[Philanthropy]  Impact 100 SRQ Reaches Goal, Looks to Double Membership

Impact 100 SRQ, a new group of local philanthropists committed to high impact strategic grant making, has announced that it has reached its first goal of raising $100,000 from 100 committed women. Sarasota and Manatee County women have banded together under this growing philanthropic movement that aims to deliver meaningful change in the Suncoast area. Currently, membership is at 107 women, with aspirations to double its membership by February 28. The idea behind Impact 100 SRQ is simple:  Encourage 100 women to donate $1,000 each, then pool those resources into one big grant of $100,000 for a qualifying non-profit in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. Impact 100 SRQ has no paid employees or staff, so 100% of each member’s annual contribution is awarded to nonprofit organizations in grants of $100,000 or more. Operational costs are kept to a minimum and funded voluntarily by members and corporate supporters.

Impact 100 SRQ is hosting several upcoming events for women interested in becoming a founding member or supporter, which can be viewed at the link below. 

Impact 100 SRQ events

[Real Estate]  J.E. Charlotte Construction Tapped for Bird Key Yacht Club Renovation

J.E. Charlotte Construction Corp., a Venice-based commercial construction company, was recently awarded the contract to spearhead the exterior renovation of a new 2,200-square-foot outdoor dining area for the Bird Key Yacht Club, a private yacht club located on the Sarasota Bay.

The $340,000 project is slated to start in spring 2019 with a three-month schedule to revamp the space. The construction team will demolish the existing deck and add an extension and exterior design details, including a new stainless steel railing, tile flooring throughout and updated lighting and cabinetry. A 4-inch awning system will also be installed to keep guests cooler in the summer months and warmer in the winter months. The out-of-doors seating capacity will double to approximately 60 seats. The outdoor space will feature a serving station, allowing for expedited services for its members. 

http://jecharlotte.com/



[TODAY]  PERFORMANCE: Bill Bowers: All Over The Map , January 18 – January 19

Through movement, mime, and comedy, a veteran solo artist recalls and recreates the indelible memories from thirty years of touring twenty-five nations.

Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota

[TODAY]  THEATER: A Doll's House, Part 2 , January 18 – March 31

In the final scene of Ibsen’s 1879 masterwork, Nora Helmer slammed the door on her marriage and family life, leaving her family. This sequel imagines her 15 years later as a successful writer and independent women, but she must return home to the one man who can help her. Universally acclaimed during its recent Broadway run, this new comedy raises questions about marriage and the roles of women have—and have not—changed.

Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: The Biology Open House , January 19

High school students interested in biology, medical or allied health careers are invited to a free Biology Open House. Students will have the opportunity to tour USFSM’s chemistry and biology labs, view interactive presentations and talk with students and professors about careers in science and medicine. It is open to all high school and transfer students and their parents.

Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy., Sarasota

[SOON]  SEMINAR: The Ringling Art Library’s Collection of Rare Travel Books , January 22

The Ringling Art Library’s Special Collection includes a number of 17th to 19th-century travel books, many of which are extremely rare. This presentation from Elisa Hansen, Head of Library Services, will explore these fascinating journeys and the authors who wrote about them.  

Chao Lecture Hall, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time , January 23 – March 17

Adapted by Simon Stephens from Mark Haddon’s novel of the same name , Christopher is exceptionally intelligent, but ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. When he falls under suspicion for killing his neighbor’s dog, he sets out to identify the true culprit, which leads to an ear-shattering discovery.

[SOON]  GALLERY: Cycle 3: SVAS, Nugent & Arbaugh, ASALH and Work of He(art) , January 24 – March 1

In Gallery 1, Sarasota Visual Artists Studios will present an exciting exhibition featuring the work of Andrea Dasha Reich, Barbara Banks, Bill Buchman, Duncan Chamberlain, Grace Howl and Larry Forgard. A collaboration between Jen Nugent and Jack Arbough uses drawing, collage and video to address competing impulses to conserve and explore in Gallery 2. In Gallery 3, the Manasota branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History highlights African-American artists from Sarasota and Manatee counties. And Gallery 4 features an open, juried exhibition.

Art Center Sarasota, 707 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  BUSINESS: SB2 State of the Economy and Localpreneur of the Year Awards Luncheon , January 24, 11am to 1pm

Join SRQ Magazine for SB2 for the State of the Economy at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota with a panel of regional experts from small businesses, economic development, finance, hospitality and real estate including Jacki Dezelski of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce, Kevin Cooper of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Drayton Saunders of Michael Saunders and Company, Mark Huey of the EDC of Sarasota County, Philip Rich of Seaside Bank, Jeff Mayers of The Resort at Longboat Key Club and Sharon Hillstrom of the Bradenton Area EDC. The winners of the 2019 Localpreneur of the Year Competition will also be announced and recognized during a special awards program. Tickets are $55/person, $250 for a half table of four and $500 for a table of eight. Registration begins at 11am. The program runs from 11:30am to 1pm. Ticket online at SRQSB2.COM.

Hyatt Regency Sarasota, 1000 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, Florida 34236

[SOON]  GALLERY: Through the Eyes of An Educator , January 24

The Ringling is proud to welcome over 10,000 students to their museum each year. During this tour, Katie Nickel, School and Teacher Programs Coordinator, will walk through the galleries through the eyes of a child and explain how she strategically designs school experiences for different ages and subject areas.

Museum of Art , 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota

[SOON]  DANCE: Transcending Movement , January 25 – January 28

Kicking off 2019 with a bang, Program 4 features a world premiere from Sarasota Ballet’s Resident Choreographer and Principal Dancer, Ricardo Graziano, alongside David Bintley’s Four Scottish Dances and the company premiere of Sir Frederick Ashton’s Varii Capricci. This will be the eighth full work choreographed by Graziano for the Company.

FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Adapting to a Changing Climate , January 25

From hurricanes to red tide and sea level rise, learn how a changing climate affects the Sarasota-Manatee region and the state of Florida. Expert speakers will discuss the challenges and impact on our region while uncovering the adaptive strategies that bring unique social and economic opportunities.

USF Sarasota-Manatee, 8350 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Forbidden Broadway , January 27

An ever-changing spoof of Broadway musicals, sing and laugh along with the roast of such timeless Broadway hits as LesMiserables, Cats, West Side Story, Fiddler on the Roof and many more. The costumed cast of four talented singer/entertainers wrap highly professional performances with musicality and laughter.

Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice

[SOON]  DANCE: Dance Makers , January 31 – February 3

"Dance Makers" is the annual dance celebration bringing together some of the most sought out contemporary choreographers. The evening will feature new and imaginative dance works by internationally acclaimed contemporary choreographers, such as Ana Maria Alvarez (LA), Katiti King (NYC), Kira Blazek (NC) and Kwesi Johnson (UK), in addition to a multi-media solo set on Artistic Director, Leymis Bolaños Wilmott, choreographed by Tennille Lambert (NYC). This versatile program is sure to delight and inspire - while offering something a little unexpected.

Jane B Cook Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

[SOON]  FOOD: Steak & Burger , February 1, 6:00PM - 9:00PM

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County is thrilled to announce our Steak & Burger Event, Celebrating Our Youth of the Year, will be held at The Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club on February 1, 2019 at 6:00 pm. Join us for this western-themed, fun filled night, where kids eat steak and adults eat burgers! Support of Steak & Burger helps financially sustain high-quality programs that we offer to more than 7,000 youth in Sarasota County. All proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County, helping our members reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.

Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club, 3100 Fruitville Road, Sarasota

[SOON]  BUSINESS: Upscale Sidewalk Sale , February 2, 9:00AM - 4:00PM

Join Designing Women Boutique on Saturday, February 2nd from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the areas most unique Upscale Sidewalk Sale offering only the best fashion brands with new and gently loved merchandise, as well as vintage and limited selection items.  Entry is free.

Browse amongst booths filled with beautiful clothing and jewelry, elegant handbags, fine art, antiques, home furnishing and more. Expect to see goodies from Chanel, Gucci, Hermes, Versace, Michael Kors, Calvin Klein and many other favorites.  Food court, refreshments and other goodies will be available for purchase.

Another highlight of the day will be the presence of appraisers Linda Dyer, Colleene Fesko, Stuart Whitehurst and Sara Wishart as seen on PBS Antique Road Show will be on-site by appointment providing verbal appraisals and to evaluate any treasures shoppers care to bring along.  There will be a minimal charge for this service and the time slots will fill up fast.

Proceeds will benefit DWB’s grants program and their signature GroundWorks initiative that funds scholarships, mentoring and career advancement opportunities.

Designing Women Boutique, 1226 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

[SOON]  MUSEUM: Knights , February 3 – April 21

Drawn from the superb collections of the Stibbert Museum in Florence, Italy, this extraordinary exhibition reveals the figure of the knight in the Middle Ages and Renaissance through over 80 exquisite objects, including full suits of armor, helmets, corselets, swords and other weaponry. The exhibition explores the function and craftsmanship of these exquisite objects as well as their historical context, focusing on themes of love and war, jousts and tournaments, and the 19th-century revival of interest in medieval knighthood.

The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota.

SRQ Media Group

SRQ DAILY is produced by SRQ | The Magazine. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and in the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. Senior Editor Jacob Ogles edits the Saturday Perspective Edition, Letters and Guest Contributor columns.In the CocoTele department, SRQ DAILY is providing excerpts from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. The views expressed by individuals are their own and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or via email

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