Volume 2 No. 53 |December 30, 2020 |
|
|
|
ARTS NEWS
& PROFILES
FROM
FLORIDA'S
TREASURE COAST & BEYOND
|
|
Sharing our wealth of arts and culture. We're having an ARTS BLAST!
Promoting The Arts & Arts Councils Everywhere
|
|
In This Issue
___________
A Talk with Brad Taylor About His Virtual Book Tour
A New Face at Brevard Cultural Alliance
St. Lucie Cultural Alliance Exhibit
Some Holiday Concerts You Might Have Missed
New Art in Public Indian River County Places
(Still Time For) Nutcracker on the (Real) Indian River on
Around the Web: Bosch-inspired Tattoo, Creepy Museum Stuff
Short & Sweet - Oneliners from the Arts Blast Calendar
__________
NOTE: Calls for Artists, Auditions, Volunteers is now online.
Get Daily Updates on Willi Miller's Arts Blast Facebook Page
plus
Shared Information and Fun Links on Willi Miller's Arts Blast Extras
|
|
I'm a masker, one of the few ways I feel I can contribute to the fight against this virus. If you aren't one already, please consider joining me. |
|
Please encourage friends and even friendly strangers to Like our Facebook pages and become Arts Blast subscribers!
|
|
Can't read this email?
Clickto
|
|
|
Sunday on Cultural Connection on the Air - No show this week |
|
Listen to Cultural Connection on the Air Sundays at 8 a.m. on WQOL, 103.7 fm and on iHeartRadio.com. |
|
|
If you haven't seen it already, scroll down to learn how to watch Ballet Vero Beach's Nutcracker on the Indian River.
Riverside Theatre's Live in the Loop and Comedy Zone Experience are still on holiday but will return next weekend.
Vero Beach Theatre Guild begins the new year with Over the Tavern Jan. 13-24.
This will be the final weekend for Heathcote Botanical Gardens' Garden of Lights and they still need a few volunteers.
The Arts Blast staff is on vacation for one more issue, back with Merana Cadorette and more next week. In the meantime, we wish for you a year that's so much better in every way than this one has been.
|
|
The video, broadcast on South Florida PBS last week, is now online.
Watch it on YouTube in English or Spanish through January 6. The production is 28 minutes in length, no ticket required.
|
Short & Sweet - A little taste of what you'll find on the Arts Blast's calendar web page. Don't forget to keep checking in! And send your own arts event information using the format at the end of every Arts Blast.
❄️❄️❄️❄️Through Jan. 6 - Nutcracker on the Indian River from Ballet Vero Beach streaming and broadcasting at no charge. Details on the website.
Dec. 31, 6 p.m.-midnight - Sandi & Hope’s Last Flamingle at WPB Waterfront, Clematis Street
Weekends through Jan. 2, 5:30- 9 p.m. - 6th Annual Garden of Lights at Heathcote Botanical Gardens, Fort Pierce.
Dec 29-March 2 - Covid-Inspired Exhibit at The Emerson Center Gallery. There is an open call to artists.
Dec. 30, 7 p.m. - Classic Albums Live Performs Fleetwood Mac's Greatest Hits at the Emerson Center, Vero Beach
Dec. 30, 5:30-7:30 - Full Moon Forest Therapy Walk at Environmental Learning Center
Jan, 1, 5-8 p.m. - First Friday Gallery Stroll on and around 14th Avenue in the historic Downtown Arts District in Vero Beach.
Through Jan. 4 - Portfolios - Eclectic Artists and Art at the Elliott
Through March 14 - Color Riot! How Color Changed Navajo Textiles at MFA St. Pete
Through Dec. 31 - Luminous by C3: Contemporary Curators Collective at Arts Warehouse, Delray Beach.
Through Dec. 31 - Philip Haas’ The Four Seasons in the Philip Hulitar Sculpture Garden and the Pannill Pavilion at Society of the Four Arts.
Through Dec. 31, 6-10 p.m. - Light Shows with Music & Dancing Water at the WPB Waterfront and Centennial Square Fountain, Flagler Drive at Clematis Street.
Through Dec. 31 - Victorian Christmas Stroll at the Henry B. Plant Museum, Tampa. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Through Jan. 3, 5:30-9 p.m. - Southwest Florida’s 45th Annual Holiday Celebration - Holiday Nights at Edison Ford. Lee County residents - $5 off self-guided admission Monday nights. Masks are required. Details on website.
Through Jan. 3 - Holidays at Bok Tower Gardens 2020
Sundays, Through Jan. 3, 3 p.m. - Peace on Earth Carillon Concerts at Bok Tower Gardens
|
|
|
|
|
It's First Friday Gallery Stroll in Vero Beach. Yes, they know it's New Year's Day but that's the way they roll on 14th Avenue.
There will be opening receptions at several galleries, including Gallery 14, where they'll introduce work by the Fabulous Foursome.
Flametree Clay Art Gallery's reception celebrates New and Select Ceramics of Sean Sexton.
|
|
Brad Taylor in Virtual Conversation for Vero Beach Book Center |
|
A favorite with Treasure Coast readers, author Brad Taylor is on a one-time-only virtual book tour to introduce his latest Pike Logan adventure, American Traitor. Taylor has been a frequent draw at Vero Beach Book Center and has selected VBBC to be one of the five independent book stores participating in the 7 p.m. online event January 5. Get details on how to link in at the Book Center's website.
|
The virtual author appearance has become a common occurrence in the publishing industry, as bookstores shut down and travel is limited. Taylor shares feedback from the independent stores he's visited in the past: "Initially, it (Covid) was debilitating, but it's come back some. The bookstores have learned how to deal with the fallout, and in most cases, have actually developed ways to encourage people to shop, with curbside service, direct mailings, even home deliveries. The good thing about the pandemic is that more people are reading."
Taylor explained that his pre-Covid tours were the traditional thing, "Traveling to one city after another and engaging with fans, signing books, and generally getting to give back to the readers who have given me so much." His last signing was in March, when people were just beginning to take the pandemic seriously. "The event had 110 ticketed people set to show. I think I had about 40."
A typical book tour ran 7 to 10 days, with multiple signings each day, he said. "My record - and I blame my publicist for this - is four cities in one day. When I was writing two books a year, I was doing two tours a year, which was quite fun, but in the end, was a lot."
|
The best part of an in-person signing is meeting his readers, Taylor said. "That's the only reason I do it. Answering questions from fans about aspects of the book, talking to them about the trajectory for the future, that kind of thing." But every silver lining has a cloud, right? He said the worst part of a book tour is "getting up at 3 a.m. to catch a flight, knowing I will only have enough time to use the bathroom before the signing—which means getting on the plane showered, shaved, and pressed tight for the event, while missing every meal of the day because you're running through an airport."
He's changed clothes in a Wendy's bathroom, shaved in a Starbucks, "you name it." It's what it's all about for him. "While THIS event might be my fifteenth stop, it's the first for the place I'm coming to. I have to be as squared away on that awful trip as I am for one where I get in early and have two hours to prepare. I'm there for the reader, and I have to be on my game. That is probably the worst thing for me - worrying about letting the readers (or the bookstore) down."
|
|
A book store signing is the marquee event, Taylor said, "but then I branch out - for instance, if there's a military base within driving distance of the main event, I'll coordinate with them to sign for the troops."
The connection, from his bio: "Brad served for more than 21 years, retiring as a Special Forces Lieutenant Colonel. During that time he held numerous Infantry and Special Forces positions, including eight years in 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment – Delta where he commanded multiple troops and a squadron. He has conducted operations in support of US national interests in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other classified locations."
|
The Covid travel restrictions make researching an international thriller a real challenge, Taylor said. "For American Traitor I traveled both to Taiwan and Australia, doing on-the-ground research. Unfortunately, when the pandemic hit I was only halfway through the writing, and I had to make a call as to whether I include the fallout in the novel." He decided to set the novel during elections in Taiwan right before the pandemic hit.
|
Taylor said he's working on his next book right now, inspired by an organization he came across while doing research for The Insider Threat, the Knights of Malta. "They've been around since the Crusades, have a seat at the UN, make their own currency and have a recognized passport - but they own no land. I've been waiting to use it forever, and now I will."
|
The author said Vero Beach is one of his favorite stops. "Don't tell my publisher, but because we have to lose so much time coming west to east, I usually get a day and a half there. I have to land the night before the event." He said the signings at Vero Beach Book Center "are always one of the most lively ones I do. When I open it up to questions, I get more than I bargained for every time. I'm going to miss not being there in person." We can be sure Taylor will be back on the Treasure Coast when Covid restrictions ease up because "one day, I'm going to steal that Harley Davidson military motorcycle in the Orlando/Melbourne airport."
|
New York Times-bestselling author and former Special Forces Commander Brad Taylor takes readers on another hair-raising thrill ride through the clandestine world of Special Ops, Cyber Ops, and geopolitical intrigue in AMERICAN TRAITOR: A Pike Logan Novel (HarperCollins; January 5, 2021; $28.99). This time out, what begins as a carefree vacation in Australia for Pike Logan and his new bride, Jennifer Cahill, turns into a deadly race against time to stop a military confrontation between China and Taiwan that would undoubtedly draw the United States into a horrific war.
|
The event is on Tuesday, January 5, 2021. This is his only virtual event --https://www.verobeachbookcenter.com/ The only other stores participating are Poisoned Pen in Phoenix; Buxton Books in Charleston; Warwicks in La Jolla, CA; and Murder by the Book in Houston.
|
|
Changes Coming at Brevard Cultural Alliance |
|
Lisa Packard, executive director of the Eau Gallie Arts District Main Street for six years, is retiring this week. Keenun Barley will take over when the office re-opens in January.
Packard's accomplishments are many, including being instrumental in the creation of "most of EGAD’s special events, including Dog Days, Women We Love, Drag Queen Bingo, and Whiskey in the District. ... Ms. Packard is most proud of her lead role in changing state law regarding the number of alcohol permits state nonprofits may have. The old law provided three permits per year. The new law allows for 12 permits per year. That change created the opportunity for main street programs (and all nonprofits) throughout the state to earn critical funds. Florida Main Street recognized Ms. Packard with the top state award where she received a standing ovation from her peers."
|
|
Keenun Barley "is passionate about EGAD. She is the co-organizer of FLEAGAD Market and Space Coast Music Festival, as well as Space Coast Fresh Fest, a vegan festival. Keenun is also the founder of Plant-Based Brevard, on the Board of Directors for Warriors 4 Kids, and is part-owner in Co/Create, a business on Highland Avenue that hosts space for a collective of smaller vendors.
Barley said, "The arts district is where I spend most of my time and I’m excited to step into the role of Executive Director. I am honored to be leading EGAD Main Street into a new season. I truly could not be more excited.". She resides in Indian Harbour Beach with her husband and the youngest of their two daughters.
|
|
I know it's late in the game but this came to my attention late. For those who would like to donate to arts organizations but aren't planning to itemize for the IRS this year, take a look at the CARES Act here. From the site: "... taxpayers who don't itemize deductions may take a charitable deduction of up to $300 for cash contributions made in 2020 to qualifying organizations. For the purposes of this deduction, qualifying organizations are those that are religious, charitable, educational, scientific or literary in purpose."
I checked in with CPA Timothy Dean for other insight that might be helpful for self-employed people (artists, musicians, et al) and for readers making last minute charitable contributions.
Self-employed individuals may be eligible for a qualified sick leave credit or qualified family leave credit that can reduce their self-employed tax on their 2020 tax return. See the ink below.
Other tax changes include the ability to deduct $300 in charitable contributions even if they do not itemize. For those that do itemize, the charitable contribution income limit has been increased to 100% of the taxpayers adjusted gross income (AGI)
If anyone qualified but did not receive a stimulus rebate check in 2020 because they did not file a tax return in time or because of income limitations, they may be eligible for the credit when they file their 2020 form 1040,
Also, retirees are not required to take a required minimum distribution (“RMD) distribution from their IRA in 2020
Dean added, "One thing the new law changed was that businesses can now deduct expenses paid with PPP funds, even if the PPP loan is forgiven. Previously, the IRS said expenses paid with forgiven PP funds were not deductible."
This information is not intended to take the place of advice from your financial professional.
|
SUPPORT ST. LUCIE ARTISTS!
|
|
Missing Wednesdays @ 1:00 p.m.?
Andrew Galuska, director of music and fine arts at Community Church of Vero Beach, is bringing his Wednesdays at 1 Facebook Live presentations back from holiday break. He'll be at the Center for Spiritual Care with artist Leslie Stokes Wednesday, January 13, for music and conversation. This program will be live at facebook.com/CCOVB.org
|
From The Barn Theatre:
Start your New Year's celebration with a sensational fundraising event. Renowned tribute artists Jon Elgart & Greg Vadimsky re-create the sounds and glitz of Elton John & Billy Joel in their EYE2EYE Concert.
PROCEEDS WILL HELP KEEP THE BARN DOORS OPEN!
Performances are...
Sat., Jan, 2nd, 8 p.m. & Sun., Jan. 3rd, 2 p.m.
|
From the Cultural Council of Indian River County: |
The Indian River County Courthouse, usually reserved for a solo artist show, is exhibiting works by members of the Plein Air Treasure Coast North group. Plein air is a French expression meaning “in the open air.” The artwork is created entirely outdoors with the subject matter in full view of the artist. The exhibiting artists captured familiar sights around the Treasure Coast such as Blue Cypress Lake, McKee Gardens, LaPorte Farms and Royal Palm Point. The exhibition is on display through February 11, 2021.
(The Gahan Wilson plein air cartoon is borrowed from a Facebook page.)
_______________________________
|
At the Intergenerational Recreation Center, in the exhibit “Creative Reset: Looking Back ~ Looking Forward,” artists were asked to consider how this year brought about a creative reset in their work, looking back to what they created in the past and how creativity is emerging looking forward.
The subjects and styles are varied and include landscapes on round canvas, abstracts using modeling paste and foil and an African-themed portrait series in mixed media. The exhibition is on display through March 30, 2021.
|
|
DOES KEEPING FINANCIAL RECORDS MAKE YOU NERVOUS?
Even smaIl operations need to keep their financial house in order. Image First can record deposits, write checks, pay taxes, and provide reports in Quickbooks. Artists, spend more time in your studio and less on paperwork. Let’s talk, free consultation. Image First, 772-538-4148.
|
|
Holiday Concerts You Might Have Missed
(These were still available online late Monday.)
|
Each free opera stream becomes available at 7:30PM ET and remains accessible for on-demand viewing until 6:30PM ET the following day.
Wednesday, December 30
Thursday, December 31
Friday, January 1
Saturday, January 2
Sunday, January 3
|
|
What appears to be a photograph of a girl showing off her Hieronymus Bosch-inspired tattoo isn't a photo at all. It's actually an incredible oil painting by Polish artist Agnieszka Nienartowicz. Graduating just two years ago from the Fine Arts Academy of Gdańsk, she demonstrates incredible skill at her craft. This particular painting combines the work of Hieronymus Bosch, a forefather of the Northern Renaissance, with tattoo art for a decidedly contemporary feel.
Interestingly, the piece, which shares a title with Bosch's iconic The Garden of Earthly Delights, was first conceived of in Nienartowicz's own private reflections.
|
|
Dr. Marcos Daniel Flores is a piano performance graduate from The Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico B.M., The Eastman School of Music M. M., and Arizona State University where he received his Doctor of Musical Arts degree. Flores is an active performer as well as an experienced and inspirational piano teacher.
|
|
|
Event schedules can change, often at almost the last minute. Verify, double check, and then do it again before you head out the door. And when you do go out, take a mask. Without one, you risk being turned away. |
|
Scroll down for guidelines for submitting calendar items and feature suggestions to ARTS BLAST.
|
|
To opt out of receiving Arts Blast, "unsubscribe" at the end of the page. |
|
Like Willi Miller's Arts Blast Facebook page for updates and Willi Miller's Arts Blast Extras for interesting, inspiring, and fun shared posts, then go to willimiller.com to catch up on every issue of Arts Blast, and see the latest ON THE CALENDAR listings.
Please share this to help Arts Blast reach more readers and spread the word.
As always, For Helen Miller
|
|
Information is to be received in an email at least one week before publication.
Use this format for Calendar entries:
Who (organization)
What (Event)
When (dates, time)
Where (Name of venue, address)
Why (a brief description of the purpose)
Web/Facebook address
Contact for public use (for tickets, questions, etc.)
Then add a short, descriptive release if available.
Send only one photo, with caption, unless more are requested.
Media contact with email for Arts Blast followup (not for publication)
|
|
Here's a suggestion for uploading information to calendars that allow you to input your own events.
In the body of the listing, sometimes called Description, make sure to include all dates in each upload. For example: Performances are on March 12-31; or the exhibit is open March 12, 14, 15, and 17. That information should be in all dates you post individually.
If you are a member of the Cultural Council of Indian River County, you need this information:
The deadline is MONDAY - 10 days prior to the Wednesday publication.
|
|
Copyright ©2019-2020 Willi Miller's ARTS BLAST!, all rights reserved.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
