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SRQ DAILY Mar 8, 2019

Friday Weekend Edition

Friday Weekend Edition

"In the LGBT quest for acceptance and dignity and recognition, they're fighting for the same things that black people fought for and struggled for in the Civil Rights Era."

- Dan Houston, artist
 

[Gallery]  Art as Acceptance at Architectural Wall Decor
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

A bit off the beaten path but just a couple doors down from Maximillian’s Café, a new art gallery has quietly opened its doors in Sarasota. Tucked off 10th Street and accessible via a brief bumpy ride over exposed brick to the rear of the building, Architectural Wall Décor may be a bit hard to find, but Dan Houston, owner and artist, hopes to see it become a community hub and beacon of acceptance.

Houston spent six weeks building out the place—tearing down old shelves, pressure-washing the walls, repairing broken sheet rock and generally transforming an empty warehouse space into a modern-style gallery, complete with a separate studio space and modest upstairs lounge, and fit to fill with his varied creations. And variety is the name of the game for Houston.

Entering Architectural Wall Décor, large-scale abstract paintings—always acrylic and often on paper, but also on canvas or Masonite—dominate much of the space, with Houston here indulging what appear to be ink-wash or calligraphic inspirations and there embracing something entirely contemporary and at times even reminiscent of Sarasota legends like Syd Solomon.

Some of this eclectic nature comes from travel, Houston says, having lived for a time in New York City, before raising a family in Houston, TX, and eventually bouncing around to Sarasota. Some comes from a career path as varied, ranging from jewelry manufacturing to art publishing and even previous stints as a gallery owner. However, it was the 25 years working in building and contracting that gave the artist an on-the-job education in abstract art, as Houston found himself in modern homes with hallways hung with contemporary work and abstract masters alike. Art school taught him to appreciate and emulate Rembrandt and Michelangelo, he says, but this experience opened the world of abstraction.

Houston never abandoned his figurative roots though. Far from it, he has recently found reason to re-engage with purpose, dedicating a sizable portion of his effort and his space to figurative work promoting LGBT acceptance. From simple couples portraits to scenes of marriage and adoption, Houston celebrates innocent and intimate moments of romantic or erotic love and creates greeting cards and matte prints that he hopes the community will embrace. Using non-traditional models, he eschews exploitation and cliche in one move.

No stranger to notions of social justice, as a young black man, he saw his community fighting for its rights, and as a young artist he used his talents to help tell that story. And as he learned more about the LGBT community, he saw a similar struggle. “I realized that, in the LGBT quest for acceptance and dignity and recognition, they're fighting for the same things that black people fought for and struggled for in the Civil Rights Era,” says Houston. “I had to make a stand.” For now, it’s his painting, and offering his space to organizations and nonprofits that need it, but that’s just the beginning.

“I still want to be more active,” he says. 

Pictured: "Ponciana" by Dan Houston. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Architectural Wall Decor, 1655 10th Street, Sarasota. Open Thu-Sat, 11am-7pm.

[Music]  Within EarShot Part 2: Sam Wu & "Wind Map"
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

Four select composers come to Sarasota this month for a musical milestone, as the EarShot initiative, dedicated to identifying and promoting promising musical talent, teams up with the Sarasota Orchestra. Chosen from 127 applicants, Krists Auznieks, Nicky Sohn, Sam Wu and Kitty Xiao will spend a week in workshop with the musicians of Sarasota Orchestra, as well as three visiting mentor composers and LA-based conductor Christopher Rountree, all leading to a concert on March 16, where the young composers will hear their music performed by a full orchestra for the first time. In this four-part series, SRQ meets the minds behind the music.

A Chinese composer currently attending The Juilliard School, Sam Wu counts Mongolian traditional music, particularly that of the moorin khuur (horse-head fiddle), among his chief inspirations, as well as film and video game scores. His composition is entitled Wind Map.

What was the inspiration for your composition? Wu: Wind Map is inspired by global wind patterns. Specifically, I was fascinated by this rendition of an Earth wind map—large amounts of weather data are fed into a supercomputer, which then generates Van Gogh-esque swirls, swoops and streams.

What was your biggest challenge in this piece? Hearing the piece in my head. While I use the piano as a composition tool, it cannot magically re-create an entire orchestra’s colors. Thus, I worked hard on my “internal hearing” of all the instruments I’m working with.

Do you have a favorite instrument to write for? Probably the cello, because of its inherent voice-like quality.

What does it mean for you, to take part in the EarShot initiative? My mentor Tan Dun tells me that composers only truly “practice” when they hear their music played live. I take this advice to heart, and cherish any chance that I can hear my own music being performed. Orchestral opportunities for young composers, particularly with such an esteemed ensemble, are rare.

Where do you hope to take your art in the future?
 My dream concert would be some sort of collaboration with the Silk Road Project. At Harvard, I took an ethnomusicology class with them as visiting faculty—definitely a highlight of my college experience. 

Pictured: Sam Wu.

[ShopTalk]  Baby Soft Skin
Brittany Mattie, brittany.mattie@srqme.com

Philosophy & Vines and Lion & Loki come together for a fun, female empowering pop up at the Burns Court boutique today and tomorrow. Celebrate all things beauty, wellness and lifestyle fashion, on International Women’s Day no less, with the gals from Philosophy & Vines and the founder of Lion & Loki. Lion & Loki’s 100% plant-based skincare line Afterglow, creates natural, nurturing skin oil for women, especially those on the journey of motherhood. When Founder Carolyn Moore became pregnant, she became hyper-focused on maintaining superb health and wellbeing for herself and her unborn baby—developing an interest in how the skin worked and learned extensively how to take the best care of her skin using only what nature has to offer.  

“My journey of exploration into botanicals, oils and other natural ingredients empowered me to develop a safe, nutrient-dense and ultra-hydrating plant based product,” she says. “It made sense to replace all my potentially harmful skin and body care products with gentle natural products that would infuse my skin with essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fatty acids which would help it grow and adapt to my changing body whilst preventing stretch marks, maintaining soft silky skin and attaining a healthy radiant glow.” Afterglow transforms your outer layer with ultra-glowing, supple skin with a highly-concentrated, yet light and fast-absorbing, elixir—sans any toxic ingredients such as parabens, synthetic colors and artificial fragrances. 

Check out the goods, learn more about the brand and shop some fab, funky finds in the Philosophy & Vines shop—which will also be hosting special door prizes, light hors d'oeuvres, a champagne bar and some even more fun surprises.

Happy International Women's Day!



 

Photo courtesy of Lion & Loki

Pop Up Event happening Friday, March 8, 3pm-6pm & Saturday, March 9, 11am-3pm at Philosophy & Vines, 606 South Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, 941-544-8171.

[Science & Nature]  Selby Gardens Master Plan Featured in Washington DC Exhibition

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and the master site plan, that will protect and preserve 15-acres of bayfront property, is featured in the newly opened exhibit Celebrating New American Gardens, on display at the United States Botanic Garden (USBG) in Washington DC. As the only botanical garden in Florida featured, the exhibit showcases 21 gardens from across the United States that have created new gardens or renovated a garden within the last five years. The USBG presents this new exhibit through October 15. 

As part of the exhibit, photos, drawings, landscape designs, and project descriptions share the story of Selby Gardens and its new Master Plan. Just as plants change and grow, these gardens featured in the exhibit are making changes to better prepare for their own future and to showcase new plant collections, create spaces for people to connect with nature, and foster sustainability.

Other gardens represented include Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania, New Orleans Botanical Garden in Louisiana, Portland Japanese Garden in Oregon, and other public gardens from across the nation. 

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

[Arts and Culture]  4MP Announces Marketing Workshop for Indie Authors

4MP will present a marketing workshop designed to give self-published (Indie) authors practical, effective, easy-to-use and affordable tips, tools and techniques to promote their books, create awareness and boost book sales. 4MP presenters Dona Lee, Pat McKanic, Brenda Spalding and Al Musitano will share information and handouts covering everything from utilizing traditional and social media to create awareness; the importance of including videos, book trailers and YouTube in your marketing plan; creating opportunities and themed events to sell your books; partnering with other authors and community businesses to maximize promotional opportunities; and building an author’s platform using multiple titles to attract, engage and retain followers. The workshop will be Saturday, March 23, from 10am to 2pm at North County Library. Tickets are available at the website below. 

4MP Indie Author Workshop



[Guide to Giving]  Donors Guide to Giving- SRQ Magazine's May 2019 Edition

Our region is known for its strong philanthropic spirit. Join us this May in recognizing and sharing your organization’s mission and your wish list with those who want to support you.

SRQ Magazine’s Content Marketing Division engages you with our readers powerfully in print and strategically online.

Contact us today reserve your space!

Contact your Business Development Executive or Associate Publisher Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or growmybusiness@srqme.com to reserve your space and article today. SRQ Magazine’s Content Marketing Division engages you with our readers powerfully in print and strategically online.

SRQ MAGAZINE—Live Local. Love Local | Sarasota and Bradenton 

[TODAY]  GALLERY: Kathe Fraga: Solo Exhibition , March 8

Kathe Fraga narrative paintings are inspired by the romance of vintage Chinoiserie, layered with pattern, botanicals, color and hidden motifs. Worn surfaces and distressed textures combine to create a sense of something soft and lovely and familiar.  

530 Burns Gallery , 530 Burns Ct., Sarasota

[TODAY]  FESTIVAL: Music on May Lane , March 8, 4:00pm - 9:00pm

Here is the description we're using: You're invited! Join us on Friday, March 8th from 4-9 p.m. for Music on May Lane, our first neighborhood block party complete with food, drinks, and music, in the heart of the Rosemary District. Celebrate with us at The Bayside Club!

The Bayside Club, 800 Cocoanut Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Ponies for Pups , March 9, Gates open at 11AM

The 10thAnnual Ponies for Pups Charity Polo match benefitting the non-profit, no-kill shelter, Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue, the event is specifically intended to offset costs related to the medical care, rehabilitation and well-being of the hundreds of animals taken in annually.

[SOON]  MUSIC: Celebrating Bernstein's World , March 9 – March 10

The program includes selections from Bernstein's "Candide", and the "West Side Story Suite" plus music of Charles Ives and Gershwin including music from "Porgy & Bess". Renowned clarinetist, Richard Stoltzman is joined by his son Peter - also a well-established musician, composer and arranger.

Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Kaleidoscope of Creativity , March 9, 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Join the Booker High School Visual & Performing Arts department and fellow art lovers for an unforgettable evening featuring a mozaic of stellar performances, exquisite art, silent and live auctions and more. Sip signature cocktails and feast on culinary creations catered by Michael’s on East, as you mingle under the stars to bolster the stars of tomorrow. It will be an evening to remember and supporting a mission we should never forget—ensuring the enduring legacy of the arts in Sarasota and beyond.

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Mendelssohn’s Elijah , March 10 – March 11

Mendelssohn’s powerful choral masterpiece brings to life some of the most dramatic moments in the Old Testament. Fire comes from the heavens, storms gather, and the people cry for vengeance. From the prophet’s curse of drought, to confronting an evil queen, to his ascent to heaven on a fiery chariot, Elijah is an extraordinary musical experience.

First United Methodist, 104 South Pineapple Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: Love Sung in the Key of Aretha , March 13 – April 28

Four women musically review their life experiences as told through the songs made famous by the late and legendary “Queen of Soul,” Aretha Franklin. Join to pay tribute to one of America’s most iconic voices in this joyful appreciation of Aretha’s music and its impact on our lives.

Westcoast Black Theatre Mainstage, 1646 10th Way., Sarasota

[SOON]  GALLERY: Cycle 4 , March 14 – April 19

Through a visceral mixing of oil and acrylic paint, Walter Matthews’ densely worked canvases create a reflection of the artist’s intensity and anxiety. Continuing the annual tradition, Spectrum IV embeds the independent work of three natural solo artists into an experimental installation that blurs the lines between collaboration and contamination. Split between a series of micro-exhibitions, New Realities features the perspectives and studio practices of junior level Fine Art students attending Ringling College of Art and Design.

Art Center Sarasota, 707 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  BUSINESS: SRQ MEDIA's SMARTgirl Mentorship Summit, Applications Open , March 15, 9:30am to 1:30pm

Applications are open for this year's SRQ Magazine SMARTgirl Mentorship and Leadership Luncheon taking place on Friday, March 15, 2019 from 9:30am-1:30pm at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota. The free program provides 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th grade girls attending school in Sarasota and Manatee counties with career pathway exploration, STEM coding workshops and a luncheon featuring speakers presenting on the topic of overcoming challenges, being a leader and achieving success. The sessions and workshops are led by some of the community’s top women leaders including the ambassadors of the Hear Me Roar Leadership Circle.

Free program, no cost to apply or attend. Submit your application online at SRQMAG.COM/SMARTGIRl by Thursday, January 31, 2019 to be considered. All materials for the conference will be provided, including lunch and snacks. Limited spots available, apply early.

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

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Stan Kenton All Star Big Band , March 17

With a 17-piece orchestra, the program includes such well-loved favorites as “Here’s That Rainy Day,” ”September Song,” “Over the Rainbow,” “Minor Blues,” “Artistry in Rhythm” and many more from the American popular music and jazz artist.

Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice

[SOON]  GALA: Ain't Misbehaving , March 21 – April 7

A musical tribute to the black musicians of the Harlem Renaissance and the new “swing” beat, experience the jazz scene—uptown, downtown, raffish and startling beautiful atmosphere. Come, swing and jive to such songs as “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love,” “I’m Going To Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter,” “The Joint is Jumpin’” and, of course, “Ain’t Misbehavin’.”

Stone Hall: Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W, Bradenton

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Mallets and Forethought , March 21

A percussionist of great versatility and virtuosity, George Nickson brings the marimba to the fore in this concert that includes selections from Debussy’s “Children’s Corner Suite” and “Over The Rainbow” by Harlan/Oetemo. Principal percussionist for the Sarasota Orchestra and founding member of ensemblenewSRQ, Nickson has been hailed across the country, including as “a performer handling his role with ease and flair” by The New York Times.

Michael's on East ballroom, 1212 South East Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: Cirque Des Voix , March 22 – March 24

A Key Chorale special event, Cirque des Voix is a performance unlike any other. See world-class circus artists combine with the 100+ voices of the Key Chorale and the musical mastery of the 40-piece Cirque Orchestra to produce one of the most unforgettable productions you’ll ever experience.

The Mall University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Dr., Sarasota,

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: A Doll’s House, Part 2 , March 22 – March 23

In the final scene of Ibsen's 1879 groundbreaking masterwork, Nora Helmer famously slammed the door on her marriage and family life, leaving her husband and children behind. What happened to the iconic heroine next? This snappy sequel imagines her 15 years later as a successful writer and independent woman, but a skeleton from her past has her returning home to the one man who can help her. Universally acclaimed during its recent run on Broadway, this smart and sophisticated new comedy raises fascinating questions about marriage and the ways the roles of women have – and have not – changed. (Please note: you will enjoy this play whether you are familiar with Ibsen or not!) 

Asolo Repertory Theatre

[SOON]  GALA: Avant-Garde: A Magical Evening , March 23

Wizards and sorcerers. Magicians and illusionists. Fairies and elves. Genies and dragons. Singer Stevie Nicks or Titania, Queen of Fairyland? Harry Potter or Harry Houdini? Midsummer Night’s Dream or Puff the Magic Dragon? The magical world beckons you to step through the sliding doors of illusion and onto the dazzling Ringling College campus, where we will honor the most wondrous beings in our realm - Ringling College students. Reserve your seats now for this spellbinding evening.

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Piano Pizzazz Meets Fiddle Finesse , March 26

Good food and great music is always a perfect pairing. In this performance, enjoy a "West Side Story Medley", "Sweet Georgia Brown", "And I Love Her", "Fiddler on the Toof Medley" and a nod to the classics with "Beethoven With a Twist!"

Plantation Golf & Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice

[SOON]  GALA: HospitaBull , March 26

Enjoy a night of exquisite dining while supporting USF Sarasota-Manatee’s Hospitality Management program. This dining experience is organized, prepared and served by USFSM students and faculty. Students in the restaurant management, event management and food prep courses organize, plan and execute each aspect of the event from start to finish.

The Ritz-Carlton, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr., Sarasota

[SOON]  BUSINESS: Collaboration Celebration , March 26, 11:30am – 1pm

How does a place create a community? We know from research that a person’s zip code is a more reliable determinant of health than their genetic code. Why then, do we still struggle with poverty, addiction and homelessness in this region of beauty and prosperity?

Join us for our annual luncheon in March, where guest speaker Elma J. Felix-Lamontagne, AICP, will deliver a presentation about how places help to shape the identity of a community.

The Westin Sarasota, 100 Marina View Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236

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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