By Kathy L. Collins
The Eastern Hillsborough Art Guild, known as EHAG, held its Annual Christmas Showing of Fine Art on December 6 at Walden Lake Golf and Country Club in Plant City. This festive and celebratory show featured over 150 original works of art from 30 members of EHAG. Most of the artwork was new work on part of the members.
“This evening is a celebration of the rich diversity of art and artists ‘right next door,'” said Debra Bryant, member of EHAG. “All of us are influenced by art on a daily basis in multiple ways. Whether it is that painting hanging over your sofa or the picture on your coffee mug, it all starts with one person who had one idea. We are all fortunate to have such a rich community from which to draw inspiration, and that shows in a lot of the artists’ work.” added Bryant.
The evening was not only an art show of fine art, but also an opportunity for EHAG members to present several scholarships to two noteworthy organizations that provide support to artists in the community.
A scholarship of $500 was awarded to the MacDonald Training Center. MTC is a leader and innovator in services to people with developments disabilities. MTC has many services including fine arts instruction. A scholarship of $500 was awarded to VSA Florida (VSAFL) VSAFL provides programs in cultural access, services for adult artists with disabilities, outreach and exhibition, professional development, community programs and artists in residence.
In the past, EHAG awarded scholarships to individual artists just out of high school or enrolled in college. “This year, in order to reach more artists, the scholarship committee sought out organizations with a broader reach,” explained Bryant.
EHAG’s next event is the Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show which will take place on the Festival Grounds in Plant City from February 28 through March 10. This annual show is open to all Florida residents and winter visitors. Over $2,500 in cash prizes will be awarded to 10 adult divisions and eight youth divisions.
For more information on EHAG, please visit www.ehagfinearts.com. For more information on the Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show, please email stfestartshow@gmail.com.
