lrma summer 2014

ST PETERSBURG COLLEGEPO BOX 13489ST PETERSBURG FL 33733-3489

summer 2014JUNE – JULY – AUGUST

Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art

HoursTuesday, Wednesday, Saturday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.Thursday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.Friday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.Sunday: 1-5 p.m.Closed Mondays and July 4

Location Tarpon Springs Campus of St. Petersburg College600 Klosterman RoadTarpon Springs, FL 34689

Admission Adults – $6Seniors – $5Free for members, students with ID, children 17 and under, and active military.Sunday admission – suggested donation $5, but “pay what you can” and enjoy the museum!

Docent tours every Sunday at 2 p.m. (no charge).

727-712-5762 (LRMA)www.spcollege.edu/museum

www.facebook.com/leeparattner

LRMALeepa-Rattner Museum of Art

Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art extends its appreciation to the following corporate and community sponsors:

Thomas H. Maren/Emily Sabah-Maren Fund of the Maine Community Foundation

Kinder-Morgan Foundation

Cover Image:George Inness, Jr. (American, 1853-1926), Sunset on the Bayou, 1925, (Detail), Oil on canvas, 46 ¾ x 88 ¾ in., On loan from the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs, (photo credit: Barbara Kotacka)

VISITOR COMMENTS

From a guest at the March 2 Open House for the SPC Art Faculty Exhibition, featuring solo guitarist Joe Braccio: “Excellent in all ways. Wonderful, a joy to listen to. Thank you so much. The best party my tympanic membranes have had in years!”

“Excellent job on the tour, with amazing energy flowing from our docent, Nancy!”

“[LRMA is] top of the bill so far in this area… even better than [some of the bigger museums]!”

“I can’t thank you and your staff enough for your kindness, professionalism and welcome to all our students recently on our field trip to the museum. The kids loved it and had many questions for me about 20th century artists when we returned to school. Thank you so much—to Ann, Patti, Zee and your very professional docents. It was a great trip!”

Frank and Katherine Martucci Carol E. Martin

On view through August 31

An Arts LegacyGeorge Inness, Jr. in Tarpon Springs

Walmart Supercenter Stores #4690, #5218 and #5381

LRMA is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, Washington, D.C., a distinction held by only 6% of all U.S. museums.

Events and exhibits are subject to change.

For up-to-date information, visit www.spcollege.edu/museum or call 727-712-5762. 11St. Petersburg College is an Equal Access/Equal

Opportunity institution. 14-0210-04

MISSION STATEMENTThe mission of the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art is to collect, conserve, exhibit and protect the works of art entrusted to its care and stewardship. Through its exhibitions, programs and expand-ing collection of 20th and 21st century art, the museum strives to engage and inspire our diverse community by providing opportunities for educa-tion, enlightenment, interpretation and research to students, scholars and visitors.

Ann Larsen, Director 727-712-5225R. Lynn Whitelaw, Curator 727-712-5210Patricia Buster, Education Coordinator 727-712-5226Jennifer Carlevatti, Public Relations

727-712-5232Shelly Clark, Development Officer

St. Petersburg College Foundation 727-302-6453

Amanda Robinson, Museum Collections Manager 727-712-5200Michele Schneidenbach, Membership

Coordinator & Administrative Assistant 727-712-5222Cristina McCormack, Staff Accountant 727-712-5203Beth Becker , Visitor Services Coordinator

727-712-5227Larry Fineout, Preparator 727-712- 5212Lynn F. Pierson, Museum Store Manager 727-712-5208Aziza Gaisi, Education Assistant

727-712-5220Michele Bredal, Curatorial Prep Assistant 727-712-5222Karen Keith and Arlene L. Ehrlich,

Weekend Visitor Services 727-712-5762

Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art Board of Directors

William Schumacher, ChairmanVonda Woods, TreasurerJairo Garcia, SPC Student RepresentativeMary Mitchell AveryAnna BillirisEvelyn M. BilirakisCecilia CantwellAlison Crumbley Ken DambrosioMaria EdmondsDestry FudgeHoush Ghovaee Deveron M. GibbonsMarleen P.I. GravitzEdward C. Hoffman, Jr.Taylor IkinJoani KelterRalph MelickDr. Carolyn RootRobin SaengerKathleen A. SimonDr. Jonathan SteeleTownsend TarapaniFrancisco M. Torres, MDGary Zino

Ex-Officio Board MembersDr. William D. Law Jr., President, SPCDr. Conferlete Carney, Provost,

SPC Tarpon Springs CampusAnn Larsen, LRMA Director,

Board SecretaryFrances Neu, VP, Institutional

Advancement and Executive Director SPC Foundation, Inc.

CHANGING EXHIBITION GALLERIES



In Tarpon Springs, the legacy of George Inness (1825-1894) and George Inness, Jr. (1853-1926), a father and son who both painted here at various points in their careers, has had a profound impact on this community. A visit to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs to see the 10 religious paintings created by George Inness, Jr. has been a pilgrimage of cultural and religious tourism for nearly a century. What visitors experience demonstrates the church’s stewardship of these important paintings, created between 1898 and 1926, to tell a vibrant story of art, philanthropy and spirituality. This pantheon of paintings represents one of the finest assemblages of artistic piety in American art history.

The Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art is honored to showcase these paintings, along with secular paintings created by George Inness, Jr. during his 24 years visiting Tarpon Springs. In addition to the Unitarian Universalist Church, lenders to the exhibition include the Cici and Hyatt Brown Collection, the Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society and the private collection of John Tarapani. The exhibition explores the history of George Inness, Jr., who wintered here until his death in 1926, and his wife, Julia Goodrich Smith Inness, who founded the public library and returned to Tarpon Springs each year until 1940. Their contributions and legacy in Tarpon Springs remain strong even today.

Special Exhibition

The Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art is deeply grateful to those who have made

this important exhibition possible:

Carol E. Martin Presenting Sponsor

Bright House Networks

City of Tarpon Springs

Frank and Katherine Martucci

Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs

Cici and Hyatt Brown Collection through the Museum of Arts & Sciences, Daytona Beach

Davidson’s Dockside

Hibu/Yellowbook

Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club

Panache Vue’

Port Tarpon Marina

Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society

Friends of Tarpon Springs Public Library

John Tarapani

St. Petersburg College

Walmart Supercenter Store #4690



Celebrating Annual Fund donorsThe extensive Arts and Crafts collection of the Two Red Roses Foundation in Palm Harbor served as an eclectic backdrop for LRMA’s Annual Fund Celebration on March 20. Patrons were treated to an exclusive preview of the collection, which included furniture, pottery, tiles, paintings and prints from about 1900 to 1920. The collection will move to the soon-to-be built Museum of the American Arts and Crafts Movement in St. Petersburg in 2016.

Thank you to all of our loyal patrons who contributed to the fund and joined us for a unique evening!

Leave a legacy at LRMAJust as humans’ need for the arts existed before our time, people will need to be uplifted, inspired and educated long after we are gone. A carefully-considered, planned gift for LRMA can secure artistic excellence for future generations while honoring your legacy in perpetuity.

LRMA was established with an estate donation from Allen and Isabelle Leepa. There are many ways to give, such as bequests and charitable trusts. Think what your gift can accomplish—the perpetual support of the arts you love — and then talk with us. We will help you make it happen.

LRMA’s partnership with the St. Petersburg College Foundation enables us to provide professional and confidential assistance with estate planning matters. To start a conversation about planned giving, contact Shelly Clark, Development Officer, St. Petersburg College Foundation, Inc., at 727-712-5225.

Jane and Bill Shumacher with Jim and Mary Avery.

Curtis Rose lends his back to Dr. Carolyn Root so she can write a check for an additional donation. Dr. Root’s challenge to match the donation was quickly met.

Anitra and John Harmon take a “selfie” photo to remember the evening.

Pianist Rebecca Rose treated guests to musical delights on an antique piano.

Visit the Happenings section for more information on related Inness, Jr. events.

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Images, clockwise from top left:George Inness, Jr. (American, 1853-1926), Tarpon Springs Port, C-1915, Oil on canvas, 26 ¼ x 32 1/8 in., On loan from the Cici and Hyatt Brown Collection Edward C. Hoff man. Jr. (American, b. 1951), The Saff ord House II, 1996, Photo lithograph, 50/100, 7 ½ x 11 ½ in., Gift of Helen Ellis Memorial Hospital Foundation, Inc.Christopher M. Still (American, b. 1961), Changing Tides, 1994, Oil on canvas, 6 x 10 ft., On loan from the Friends of Tarpon Springs Public Library, Gift of Elizabeth CoachmanGeorge Inness, Jr. (American, 1853-1926), Fishing Near Tarpon Springs, 1917, Oil on canvas, 16 ¼ x 24 1/8 in., On loan from the Cici and Hyatt Brown Collection

Art and Architecture in the Hudson River ValleyJoin the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art in late October for a memorable museum travel trip to the Hudson River Valley. Travel back in time to the era of George Inness, Jr. and experience the art and architecture of the Hudson River School, the Gilded Age and the American Arts and Crafts Movement.

The tour includes:

• Roundtrip airfare

• Travel by motor coach

• Visit Montclair, NJ: Montclair Museum of Art and Rosedale Cemetery

• Visit Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms, Morris Plains, NJ (home of Gustav Stickley)

• Visit Cragsmoor, NY (summer artist colony of George Inness, Jr.)

• Visit Olana (home and studio of Hudson River School painter, Frederic Edwin Church)

• Visit the Vanderbilt Mansion, Hyde Park, NY (elegant palace of the Gilded Age)

• Visit Kykuit, Sleepy Hollow, NY (John D. Rockefeller estate)

• Three nights accommodations and most meals

• Escorted by LRMA Curator Lynn Whitelaw and John Lulias from Carlson Maritime Travel

• This tour is for LRMA members and includes a $50 donation to the Museum

For more information and pricing, please contact:

John Lulias, Sales DirectorCarlson Maritime Travel623 E. Tarpon Avenue Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 727.945.1930 / [email protected]

Lynn Whitelaw, CuratorLeepa-Rattner Museum of Art727.712.5210 [email protected]

MUSEUM LOBBY GALLERIES

Historic Tarpon Springs The spirit of Tarpon Springs’ built environment was captured in a series of prints by local architect Edward C. Hoff man, Jr. Based on pen and ink with wash drawings, the prints were created between 1987 and 2001 for the Burnett Society, a fundraising organization affi liated with Helen Ellis Memorial Hospital (today known as Florida Hospital North Pinellas). The 10 prints shown in the exhibition represent structures that existed during the time of the Innesses, most of which are still standing today.

Additionally, four photographs, enlarged from vintage photographs in the collection of the Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society, will be on view.

Travel Opportunity

OR

The Legacy ContinuesThe arts legacy of Tarpon Springs is one of the strongest of any community in Florida, if not in the United States. It began with the contributions of George Inness and George Inness, Jr., but has continued because of the city’s cultivation of an arts legacy and artists who fi nd the community a nurturing place to be creative. Today’s generation of visual artists in Tarpon Springs demonstrates that the arts legacy remains strong. The artists shown in this exhibition include Kevin Grass, Elizabeth Indianos, Mitch Kolbe, Christopher M. Still and Joseph Weinzettle.

“I loved the art museum, for I am an artist myself, with a

dream of becoming a professional.”

Paige, Age 10

K-12 Learning at LRMALRMA may be located on the SPC Tarpon Springs campus, but college students aren’t the only benefi ciaries of LRMA’s designation as a teaching museum. K-12 students throughout the Tampa Bay area visit LRMA to learn about modern and contemporary art, including artists, techniques and materials. In fact, according to LRMA Education Coordinator Patricia Buster, K-12 students are an integral part of LRMA’s educational mission, and the museum off ers free admission to school groups.

The interactive Challenge of Modern Art Gallery is an especially useful teaching tool. With puzzles, videos, books and easels, the gallery is designed to accommodate all learning styles, from visual to tactile to auditory.

On a recent tour with their teacher, students from Crestwood Elementary School in Tampa were delighted to view their artwork on the “Student Expressions” wall.

In addition to tours for teachers and students, LRMA off ers Leap into Art at Leepa-Rattner! Ideal for ages four to eight, the program features stories about art read by Palm Harbor Library staff members and a related hands-on art activity led by LRMA education staff .

LRMA’s student outreach also extends beyond the museum’s front doors. In partnership with Pinellas County Schools, and through funding from the Ell Mar Foundation of Tarpon Springs,

Welcome our newest docentsThe museum completed its docent training course on May 30 with a graduation ceremony and brunch. The trainees are now ready to conduct Sunday and pre-arranged tours of the galleries and to participate in other docent functions and events such as the National Docent Symposium, First Friday Focus, cultural trips and community outreach visits. The museum is grateful for the trainees’ commitment and valuable time, and it takes pleasure in welcoming these trainees to the LRMA Docent Corps. In addition, the museum extends appreciation to those docents who served as docent mentors during the course: Sharon Bressen; Marie Everleth; Candy Hennessy; Nancy Hensel; Sylvia Hicks; Sonia Linke; Karin Sampson; Gail Simon; Maureen Skipper; Lyn Tebrugge and Carol Zino.

LRMA and ADM2 Displays and Exhibits created an environment for the Schools’ Art Mobile. The “Totally Mod” Art Mobile helps students learn about the museum’s collection and challenging 20th century art concepts. Students take home a free admission pass to visit the museum with their families. Throughout LRMA’s four-year run, the Art Mobile will visit all 76 of the county’s elementary schools and reach approximately 100,000 students.

Pictured from left to right are new docents Judy VanWey, Sharon Wallenberg, Kimen Mitchell, Greg Rosasco, Jeanette Sixbury, Marcia Makris, JoAnn Voigt, Charlie DeGrandpre, Ruth Ann Gardner and Sandy Taylor. (New docents not pictured are Erin Armstrong, Diana DiGiorno and Elaine McIntyre.)

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Images from top:Jack Barrett (American, 1929-2008), Fantastic Flight, c. 1996-97, Watercolor, 31 x 40 in., On loan from Louise BarrettOtok Ben-Hvar in front of his Mt. Washington Flag

WORKS ON PAPER GALLERY

Mystères de l’aquarelle: Works on Paper by Jack BarrettJune 1 - August 31Academically trained as an artist, Jack Barrett (1929-2008) worked for 20 years as a well-known illustrator for the St. Petersburg Times. After retirement, he devoted 19 years to his own art style, working in a variety of media – oils, acrylics, watercolor, collage, drawing and mixed media. For Barrett, “what art is about is to record the likeness of a gesture in a dramatic spontaneous moment.” His works came from a variety of sources, but were mostly fantasies from his vivid imagination with playful images executed through dynamic gestures and exuberant color. This exhibition of nine watercolors and collages demonstrates the masterful quality and vision of Jack Barrett’s art. To learn more about Jack Barrett, attend a presentation about his art given by his widow, Louise Barrett, on Friday, June 20 (check the Happenings page for details).

FOCUS GALLERY WALL

Otok Ben-Hvar: Patriotic Firecracker ArtistJune 14 (Flag Day) – August 24Otok Ben-Hvar is a patriotic performance artist who creates art through the use of firecrackers. For some of his paintings, he lets the fireworks arrange the paint on the canvas. For other works, he defuses firecrackers to create American flags that define his patriotic causes. Over the years, Ben-Hvar has had a number of notable accomplishments, including creating America’s First National Tree, grown in soil donated from all 50 states, the U.S. territories and District of Columbia, and then using the soil, leaves and branches in his artwork.

Join us for a summer patriotic tribute that begins on Flag Day (June 14) and continues through August. This exhibition of six of Ben-Hvar’s works includes a DNA self-portrait, a firecracker-inspired American flag, a three-dimensional national tree flag and three firecracker performance paintings.

To learn more about this fascinating artist, attend a presentation about his art on Friday, June 20 (check the Happenings page for details).

in the Permanent Galleries

exhibitions continued

Member spotlightCapturing LRMA’s history, one shot at a time

Drs. Conferlete and Angela Carney

Bea DonisDavid and Maria EdmondsHoward and Sheila FeldmanHoush GhovaeeWilliam & Helen GladwinDr. Burt and Mrs. Marjorie

GolubRoger and Jean JesterJoani KelterJerry LeadersJim & Karen LehrburgerDr. Sonia LinkeJack and Kathleen KingJoseph H. F. PervallAnnette Skolnick Robert and Karin SampsonSally SchatzR. Lynn and Linda WhitelawJ. David Wright

SUPPORTER LEVELS:Family ($65)

Barton Gilmore and Jennifer Melko

Leonard and Marleen P.I. Gravitz

Robert Obarski and Sheron Green

In Memoriam Roger Miller - February 27, 2014Theo Wujcik - March 31, 2014

Eric & Barb RosenIris Szwarc

Dual ($60)Alan & Phyllis Alman Henry and Donna CadoretteRobert and Shelly ClarkEdwin and Marie CominskyCaroline and Fabrice DenjoyBernadette Denley and

Pierre GuilhotGil and Eleanor EvansPaul and Mary FarrierMerle and Erich HerzRobert and Sylvia HicksDaniel and Z HufnagelCarol and George KrauseJoan Lawler and

David VerploeghRichard and Eloise LengJohn and Jean NorthAlan and Heather RisleyHerbert and Sylvia SalsburyAmalia and George Trimitsis

Individual ($40)Joan Bohrer Maria ChapinJoe Constantino Marie Everleth

Thank you to our membersThe Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art gratefully welcomes its newest, renewing and upgrading members ( indicates upgraded level; bold italics indicate new members).

Florence FefferJose R. GelatsShayna GochbergLinda GradualKay HavenElizabeth F. HendricksonH. Quimby HeotzlerLeslie HourdasJanice A. HrubsaMary KellySigrid LannonBlanche LevineJohn LuliasCecily MosierRussell PearlmanJeanette Porter Linda S. RobersonVernon RosichStephen SchatzEllen L. ScheibleJames SechlerSuzanne SilvaDr. Jonathan SteeleLyn TebruggeJudy Van WeyThomas Whitelaw

Student ($20)William ColemanDiana DiGiorno Jairo Garcia

PATRON LEVELS: Sustainers ($1,000)

James and Mary Mitchell Avery

Gary and Sharon M. Bressen

Advocates ($500)Helen Gilbart

Contributors ($250)Michael and Elizabeth

CoachmanDonald and Beverly DeFabioDr. Thomas and Candice

HennessyMary Ann McCoy Ann HarrisRoger and Roberta SellewTheo and Mary KatsulosRev. James and Dr. Janice

Swartz

Friends ($125)Holly BirdJerald and Betty Blizin

While walking his dog down a historic tree-lined street more than 15 years ago, photographer David Wright struck up a conversation with a man in a small house. His name was Allen, and over the course of several months, they became quite friendly.

One day, a friend asked if Wright knew who the man was. “Well sure, that’s Allen,” Wright responded. The friend shook his head and encouraged Wright to look at some recent newspaper articles about Allen.

Allen, of course, turned out to be Allen Leepa, the artist who had just donated the funds to build the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art at St. Petersburg College. Wright was incredulous. He couldn’t believe this was the same man who once came to his house in a rusted-out car wearing black shoes he had painted white.

As their relationship grew, Leepa and Wright talked extensively about the art world and Wright’s second career as a photographer.

“He joked about how photography wasn’t an art,” Wright said. “But the more he saw what I did, and what I was starting to capture, he came to understand that there’s art in everything.”

When LRMA hosted its grand opening in 2002, Wright stopped by. It would mark the beginning of his 12-year tenure as a LRMA photographer.

“I came to the opening to get a few shots of Allen and Isabelle [Leepa], and it seems that I just kept taking pictures,” he said. “All of a sudden, I was at most events.”

The timing was fortuitous. Wright was just getting into photography when LRMA opened, and as the museum grew, so grew his ability to work with people and capture life’s special moments.

Although Wright’s relationship with Allen Leepa led him to become involved at LRMA, the reason he stayed is simple.

“I love documenting the life of the museum—the people and the reactions,” Wright said. “Now that LRMA has a Facebook page, it’s even more exciting because people can relive the adventure for days after [an event].”

Membership support helps LRMA continue to offer free admission to students, an important part of our community outreach. Call 727-712-5222 to become a member or to renew.

Ken Dambrosio, retired Partner/Creative Director with Cote & Dambosio, enjoyed an award-winning career which spanned over 38 years in marketing, advertising and creative design (22 years on Madison Avenue). Dambrosio has a B.B.A from Westchester Business School and attended Pace University’s School of Visual Arts. He is a lifelong supporter of the arts and artists.

Destry Fudge is a high school art teacher and Department Chair at Admiral Farragut Academy where he is dedicated to helping students think critically and creatively, utilizing his lifelong love of art. With a diverse career spanning 30 years, he served in the U.S. Air Force, has an extensive corporate IT background, was a Pinellas County Schools educator, and has a B.F.A in graphic design from the University of South Florida.

Join us for a Christmas in July sale July 12-18! It may be hot outside, but cool deals abound at Isabelle’s Museum Store. Get into the Christmas spirit early with 25-50% off select merchandise, including ornaments, posters from past exhibitions and more. While shopping, don’t forget to check out new items by our local artists, including unique wearables by textile artist Diane Prekup, fused glass creations by Jeannine Talley, gorgeous ceramics by Christa Stanelun and Chihuly Art Kits for the kids.

Isabelle’s is open to the public year-round during regular museum hours.

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Since its founding in 2002, the Leepa-Rattner Museum has exhibited the work of renowned artists from all over the world, including Picasso, Warhol, Léger and many others. This summer, we’re proud to honor the rich artistic tradition of our very own community through An Arts Legacy: George Inness, Jr. in Tarpon Springs.

Inness, Jr., together with his father, 19th-century landscape painter George Inness, established Tarpon Springs’ foundation as an arts community. Throughout the years, the city has continued to attract artists who come here to paint the natural beauty of its bayous, rivers, lakes, forests and topography.

One of LRMA’s namesakes, retired artist and art educator Allen Leepa, chose Tarpon Springs as his home in1983 because of the strong arts community and tradition he found here. His generosity resulted in the founding of LRMA 12 years ago. Today, renowned artist Christopher Still proudly acknowledges Tarpon Springs as his hometown, and we were so pleased at the tremendous turnout for his Gallery Talk on May 22.

Yet, even as we reminisce, we know that we must continue building upon our community’s arts legacy. One way you can help is by remembering LRMA in your estate plan. There are many ways to give, such as bequests and charitable trusts, and your gift will have a lasting impact on future generations of students, artists and art patrons. Contact us to learn more about how you can contribute.

Finally, I’d like to take a moment to welcome four new members to the LRMA Board of Directors: Destry Fudge; Ken Dambrosio; Dr. Francisco Torres; and SPC Student Representative Jairo Garcia. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team, and I look forward to working with them to fulfill LRMA’s mission.

Best wishes for a safe and enjoyable summer. Come visit us to cool off and view the new Inness, Jr. exhibition!

William (Bill) SchumacherChair, LRMA Board of Directors

from the

… the art of shopping!Proud member of the Museum Store Association

Local recognitionTarpon Springs Mayor David Archie and city commissioners officially congratulated LRMA on its recent accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums at a recent commission meeting. They noted the role the museum plays in the cultural life of the city and beyond.

LRMA was named Best Contemporary Art Museum by Tampa Bay METRO magazine in its year-end issue.

SPC student interns at LRMAChristie Anger, a Photography Technology student at St. Petersburg College’s Clearwater campus, spent this past spring as an intern at LRMA. Anger photographed works of art, documented events, created installation shots of exhibitions and completed post-production editing for her portfolio. She graduated with an A.S. degree in May.

Museum members on the road LRMA “Best Art of Arkansas” travelers in the lobby of the new 21C hotel in Bentonville. An art museum, art center and boutique hotel with a destination restaurant, 21C served as home base while the group visited Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The hotel provided a special tour of their new exhibition given by the 21C curator. The green penguins have become a featured element of the hotel.

Jairo Garcia joins the board as the St. Petersburg College Student Representative, as he prepares for a career in International Business. Active in campus and community life, Garcia has worked with LRMA and the SPC administration on various projects, in addition to serving as president of Latinos United.

Dr. Francisco Torres is a physician and co-owner of the Florida Spine Institute in Clearwater. Born in Seville, Spain, he graduated cum laude from the University of Puerto Rico and was awarded his medical degree from the UPR School of Medicine. With a strong interest in public and community service, he is also an avid patron of the arts.

LRMA welcomes new board membersFour new members with strong arts and community interests were approved by the LRMA Board of Directors at its May 7 annual meeting. Please join us in welcoming them at museum events.

continued SPC art faculty shine at 2014 showOn March 2, LRMA hosted an open house to celebrate the opening of the bi-annual SPC Art Faculty Show. Many of the 15 artists were on hand to deliver gallery talks and mingle with members. Here are just a few photos from a memorable day!

Joan Saunders with Linda Berghoff, SPC Art Faculty.

Joe Braccio, SPC Faculty, wowed

the crowd on his acoustic guitar.

Art Faculty Ya La’Ford (right) shares her artwork with family and friends.

Helen Gilbart (left) takes a break with Art Faculty Kevin Grass and Barbara Hubbard.

Art Faculty Elizabeth Indianos (center) proudly displays Auntie Seraph.

summer 2014

For up-to-date information on these and other exciting programs at the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art, visit www.spcollege.edu/museum or call 727-712-5762.6 7

JUNEFirst Friday Focus is on break for the summer and will resume in September.

20 FridayGallery Talks by Louise Barrett and Otok Ben-Hvar10 a.m., LRMA Galleries, $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and free for members and children

Explore the special exhibitions Mystères de l’aquarelle: Works on Paper by Jack Barrett and Otok Ben-Hvar: Patriotic Firecracker Artist with Louise Barrett, wife of Jack Barrett, and Otok Ben-Hvar. A small reception for the presenters will follow the presentations.

21 SaturdayTarpon Springs Day10 a.m.-5 p.m., LRMA Galleries, complimentary admission

Tarpon Springs residents with a current ID will be admitted free of charge on June 21 to view the museum’s special exhibitions that celebrate their city: An Arts Legacy: George Inness, Jr. in Tarpon Springs, The Legacy Continues and Historic Tarpon Springs. Docent tours will be offered at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m.

25 WednesdayLeap into Art at Leepa-Rattner!3 p.m., Challenge of Modern Art Gallery, $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, free for members and children

Ideal for ages four to eight, this program features stories about art read by Palm Harbor Library associates and a related hands-on art activity led by LRMA’s education staff. Families are encouraged to arrive early to view the galleries. The theme for June is Imagining Your World and the books are Sandy’s Circus: A Story About Alexander Calder by Tanya Lee Stone, The Dot by Peter Reynolds and Pop Warhol’s Top by Julie Appel and Amy Guglielmo.

JULY4 FridayIndependence DayMuseum closed.

6 SundayHistory of Unitarian Universalism3 p.m., North Changing Exhibition Gallery, donations welcome

Rev. Don Rollins, pastor of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs, will present a lecture about Unitarian Universalism to complement the George Inness, Jr. exhibition.

13 SundayInness, Jr. Paintings of the UUC Tarpon Springs3 p.m., North Changing Exhibition Gallery, donations welcome

Linda Gradual, Lead Docent at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs, will give a tour of the George Inness, Jr. paintings created for and bequeathed to the church.

18 FridayArt, Books and Community (ABC) Reading Club1:30 p.m., Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art, $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, free for members

Palm Harbor Library Director Gene Coppola facilitates this bimonthly program held at the museum. Members select, read and discuss books about modern and contemporary art. July’s selection is Painters of the Ashcan School: The Immortal Eight by Bennard B. Perlman.

20 SundayModernism versus Anti-Modernism 3 p.m., LRMA Galleries – Meet in Fine Arts Auditorium, donations welcome

Lynn Whitelaw, LRMA curator, and Patricia Buster, LRMA education coordinator, will introduce visitors to the stylistic differences between the tonalist paintings by George Inness, Jr. and modernist artworks in the museum’s permanent collection galleries.

21 Monday - 25 FridaySAM Camp$50 registration fee, $150 per camp week

St. Petersburg College’s College for Kids SAM Camp teaches curious students how science, math and art come together in the real world in a fun and hands-on environment. To register, visit spcollege.edu/C4K or call 727-341-3000. LRMA members receive a $25 tuition discount.

27 SundayLiterary Inspirations for Inness, Jr.3 p.m., North Changing Exhibition Galleries, donations welcome

View the George Inness, Jr. exhibition and then listen to dramatic readings of famous literary works favored by the artist, including passages from Nature by Ralph Waldo Emerson and A Forest Hymn by William Cullen Bryant.

28 Monday - 1 FridaySAM Camp$50 registration fee, $150 per camp week

St. Petersburg College’s College for Kids SAM Camp teaches curious students how science, math and art come together in the real world in a fun and hands-on environment. To register, visit spcollege.edu/C4K or call 727-341-3000. LRMA members receive a $25 tuition discount.

30 WednesdayLeap into Art at Leepa-Rattner! 3 p.m., Challenge of Modern Art Gallery, $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, free for members and children

Ideal for ages four to eight, this program features stories about art read by Palm Harbor Library associates and a related hands-on art activity led by LRMA’s education staff. Families are encouraged to arrive early to view the galleries. The theme for July is The Sky’s the Limit! and the books are Perfect Square by Michael Hall, Building Stories by Isabel Hill and First Shapes in Buildings by Penny Ann Lane.

AUGUST3 SundayCommunity & Family Day1-4 p.m., Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art, donations welcome

The museum’s 2014 Community & Family Day, set for the first Sunday in August, draws inspiration from the exhibitions An Arts Legacy: George Inness, Jr. in Tarpon Springs, The Legacy Continues and Historic Tarpon Springs. Guests will be treated to docent tours, family-centered art-making stations, community tables, refreshments and music.

27 WednesdayLeap into Art at Leepa-Rattner!3 p.m., Challenge of Modern Art Gallery, $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, free for members and children

Ideal for ages four to eight, this program features stories about art read by Palm Harbor Library associates and a related hands-on art activity led by LRMA’s education staff. Famillies are encouraged to arrive early to view the galleries. The theme for August is Fabric Fun and the books are Extra Yarn by Mac Barnett with illustrations by Jon Klassen, Too Much Glue by Jason Lefebvre with illustrations by Zac Retz and Market Day by Lois Ehlert.

George Inness, Jr. (American, 1853-1926)The Lord is In His Holy Temple, 1926

Oil on canvas, 115 ½ x 85 in.On loan from the Unitarian Universalist

Church of Tarpon Springs

Save the date – you won’t want to miss this year’s feast! We had a sellout crowd at last year’s Crab Fest and this year promises to be even better. New for 2014: Individual sponsorships are now on sale for $250. Each sponsorship consists of two tickets to the all-you-can-eat buffet and recognition on event signage. To purchase an individual sponsorship, contact Shelly Clark at 727-712-5225 by June 1. Regular member ticket sales will begin on July 1 and sales to the general public will begin September 1. Call 727-712-5229 to RSVP.

is back – Saturday, October 18

Donations of art Recent donations to the permanent collection of the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art approved by the Collections Committee and Board of Directors include

3 metal sculptures by Dino Kotopoulis, gift of the artist

4 digitally solarized black and white photographs by Joseph Constantino, gift of the artist

1 lithograph by Frank Rampolla, gift of David and Lynette Henderson

13 objects from the Rita Scott estate, including: 8 paintings by Ann Reyes, Igor Galanin, Jean Hélion, Jose Monte, Kenneth Noland, Katherine Porter, Marco del Re, and Moses Soyer; an Art Deco vase; a ceramic owl by Pablo Picasso; a glass vase by Émile Gallé; a tapestry by Sonia Delaunay; and a carved wood sculpture by Jim Collins.

News from around the museumDr. Conferlete Carney RetiresOne of LRMA’s original members and a long-time supporter of the museum, Dr. Conferlete Carney retires from his position as Provost of the Tarpon Springs Campus of St. Petersburg College on June 30, 2014. We celebrate with him on the occasion of this milestone, and thank him for his excellent stewardship on behalf of the museum.

SUPPORT THE ARTS!Now more than ever the arts need your support! Please consider a “State of the Arts” license tag when you renew this year.

LRMA represented at national events American Alliance of Museums’ Conference: Ann Larsen, Director and

Amanda Robinson, Collections Manager, represented LRMA at the American Alliance of Museum’s conference in Seattle in May.

Museum Store Association Conference: Lynn Pierson, Manager of Isabelle’s Museum Store, represented LRMA at the annual Museum Store Association conference in Houston in April and has begun working towards a CNRP designation (Certified Nonprofit Retail Professional).

George Inness, Jr. (American, 1853 – 1926)Moonlit Forest, undated20 ¼ x 30 in, oil on canvasOn loan from the Cici and Hyatt Brown Collection through the Museum of Arts and Sciences, Daytona Beach.





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Images from top:Jack Barrett (American, 1929-2008), Fantastic Flight, c. 1996-97, Watercolor, 31 x 40 in., On loan from Louise BarrettOtok Ben-Hvar in front of his Mt. Washington Flag

WORKS ON PAPER GALLERY

Mystères de l’aquarelle: Works on Paper by Jack BarrettJune 1 - August 31Academically trained as an artist, Jack Barrett (1929-2008) worked for 20 years as a well-known illustrator for the St. Petersburg Times. After retirement, he devoted 19 years to his own art style, working in a variety of media – oils, acrylics, watercolor, collage, drawing and mixed media. For Barrett, “what art is about is to record the likeness of a gesture in a dramatic spontaneous moment.” His works came from a variety of sources, but were mostly fantasies from his vivid imagination with playful images executed through dynamic gestures and exuberant color. This exhibition of nine watercolors and collages demonstrates the masterful quality and vision of Jack Barrett’s art. To learn more about Jack Barrett, attend a presentation about his art given by his widow, Louise Barrett, on Friday, June 20 (check the Happenings page for details).

FOCUS GALLERY WALL

Otok Ben-Hvar: Patriotic Firecracker ArtistJune 14 (Flag Day) – August 24Otok Ben-Hvar is a patriotic performance artist who creates art through the use of firecrackers. For some of his paintings, he lets the fireworks arrange the paint on the canvas. For other works, he defuses firecrackers to create American flags that define his patriotic causes. Over the years, Ben-Hvar has had a number of notable accomplishments, including creating America’s First National Tree, grown in soil donated from all 50 states, the U.S. territories and District of Columbia, and then using the soil, leaves and branches in his artwork.

Join us for a summer patriotic tribute that begins on Flag Day (June 14) and continues through August. This exhibition of six of Ben-Hvar’s works includes a DNA self-portrait, a firecracker-inspired American flag, a three-dimensional national tree flag and three firecracker performance paintings.

To learn more about this fascinating artist, attend a presentation about his art on Friday, June 20 (check the Happenings page for details).

in the Permanent Galleries

exhibitions continued

Member spotlightCapturing LRMA’s history, one shot at a time

Drs. Conferlete and Angela Carney

Bea DonisDavid and Maria EdmondsHoward and Sheila FeldmanHoush GhovaeeWilliam & Helen GladwinDr. Burt and Mrs. Marjorie

GolubRoger and Jean JesterJoani KelterJerry LeadersJim & Karen LehrburgerDr. Sonia LinkeJack and Kathleen KingJoseph H. F. PervallAnnette Skolnick Robert and Karin SampsonSally SchatzR. Lynn and Linda WhitelawJ. David Wright

SUPPORTER LEVELS:Family ($65)

Barton Gilmore and Jennifer Melko

Leonard and Marleen P.I. Gravitz

Robert Obarski and Sheron Green

In Memoriam Roger Miller - February 27, 2014Theo Wujcik - March 31, 2014

Eric & Barb RosenIris Szwarc

Dual ($60)Alan & Phyllis Alman Henry and Donna CadoretteRobert and Shelly ClarkEdwin and Marie CominskyCaroline and Fabrice DenjoyBernadette Denley and

Pierre GuilhotGil and Eleanor EvansPaul and Mary FarrierMerle and Erich HerzRobert and Sylvia HicksDaniel and Z HufnagelCarol and George KrauseJoan Lawler and

David VerploeghRichard and Eloise LengJohn and Jean NorthAlan and Heather RisleyHerbert and Sylvia SalsburyAmalia and George Trimitsis

Individual ($40)Joan Bohrer Maria ChapinJoe Constantino Marie Everleth

Thank you to our membersThe Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art gratefully welcomes its newest, renewing and upgrading members ( indicates upgraded level; bold italics indicate new members).

Florence FefferJose R. GelatsShayna GochbergLinda GradualKay HavenElizabeth F. HendricksonH. Quimby HeotzlerLeslie HourdasJanice A. HrubsaMary KellySigrid LannonBlanche LevineJohn LuliasCecily MosierRussell PearlmanJeanette Porter Linda S. RobersonVernon RosichStephen SchatzEllen L. ScheibleJames SechlerSuzanne SilvaDr. Jonathan SteeleLyn TebruggeJudy Van WeyThomas Whitelaw

Student ($20)William ColemanDiana DiGiorno Jairo Garcia

PATRON LEVELS: Sustainers ($1,000)

James and Mary Mitchell Avery

Gary and Sharon M. Bressen

Advocates ($500)Helen Gilbart

Contributors ($250)Michael and Elizabeth

CoachmanDonald and Beverly DeFabioDr. Thomas and Candice

HennessyMary Ann McCoy Ann HarrisRoger and Roberta SellewTheo and Mary KatsulosRev. James and Dr. Janice

Swartz

Friends ($125)Holly BirdJerald and Betty Blizin

While walking his dog down a historic tree-lined street more than 15 years ago, photographer David Wright struck up a conversation with a man in a small house. His name was Allen, and over the course of several months, they became quite friendly.

One day, a friend asked if Wright knew who the man was. “Well sure, that’s Allen,” Wright responded. The friend shook his head and encouraged Wright to look at some recent newspaper articles about Allen.

Allen, of course, turned out to be Allen Leepa, the artist who had just donated the funds to build the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art at St. Petersburg College. Wright was incredulous. He couldn’t believe this was the same man who once came to his house in a rusted-out car wearing black shoes he had painted white.

As their relationship grew, Leepa and Wright talked extensively about the art world and Wright’s second career as a photographer.

“He joked about how photography wasn’t an art,” Wright said. “But the more he saw what I did, and what I was starting to capture, he came to understand that there’s art in everything.”

When LRMA hosted its grand opening in 2002, Wright stopped by. It would mark the beginning of his 12-year tenure as a LRMA photographer.

“I came to the opening to get a few shots of Allen and Isabelle [Leepa], and it seems that I just kept taking pictures,” he said. “All of a sudden, I was at most events.”

The timing was fortuitous. Wright was just getting into photography when LRMA opened, and as the museum grew, so grew his ability to work with people and capture life’s special moments.

Although Wright’s relationship with Allen Leepa led him to become involved at LRMA, the reason he stayed is simple.

“I love documenting the life of the museum—the people and the reactions,” Wright said. “Now that LRMA has a Facebook page, it’s even more exciting because people can relive the adventure for days after [an event].”

Membership support helps LRMA continue to offer free admission to students, an important part of our community outreach. Call 727-712-5222 to become a member or to renew.





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Events and exhibits are subject to change.

For up-to-date information, visit www.spcollege.edu/museum or call 727-712-5762. 11St. Petersburg College is an Equal Access/Equal

Opportunity institution. 14-0210-04

MISSION STATEMENTThe mission of the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art is to collect, conserve, exhibit and protect the works of art entrusted to its care and stewardship. Through its exhibitions, programs and expand-ing collection of 20th and 21st century art, the museum strives to engage and inspire our diverse community by providing opportunities for educa-tion, enlightenment, interpretation and research to students, scholars and visitors.

Ann Larsen, Director 727-712-5225R. Lynn Whitelaw, Curator 727-712-5210Patricia Buster, Education Coordinator 727-712-5226Jennifer Carlevatti, Public Relations

727-712-5232Shelly Clark, Development Officer

St. Petersburg College Foundation 727-302-6453

Amanda Robinson, Museum Collections Manager 727-712-5200Michele Schneidenbach, Membership

Coordinator & Administrative Assistant 727-712-5222Cristina McCormack, Staff Accountant 727-712-5203Beth Becker , Visitor Services Coordinator

727-712-5227Larry Fineout, Preparator 727-712- 5212Lynn F. Pierson, Museum Store Manager 727-712-5208Aziza Gaisi, Education Assistant

727-712-5220Michele Bredal, Curatorial Prep Assistant 727-712-5222Karen Keith and Arlene L. Ehrlich,

Weekend Visitor Services 727-712-5762

Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art Board of Directors

William Schumacher, ChairmanVonda Woods, TreasurerJairo Garcia, SPC Student RepresentativeMary Mitchell AveryAnna BillirisEvelyn M. BilirakisCecilia CantwellAlison Crumbley Ken DambrosioMaria EdmondsDestry FudgeHoush Ghovaee Deveron M. GibbonsMarleen P.I. GravitzEdward C. Hoffman, Jr.Taylor IkinJoani KelterRalph MelickDr. Carolyn RootRobin SaengerKathleen A. SimonDr. Jonathan SteeleTownsend TarapaniFrancisco M. Torres, MDGary Zino

Ex-Officio Board MembersDr. William D. Law Jr., President, SPCDr. Conferlete Carney, Provost,

SPC Tarpon Springs CampusAnn Larsen, LRMA Director,

Board SecretaryFrances Neu, VP, Institutional

Advancement and Executive Director SPC Foundation, Inc.

CHANGING EXHIBITION GALLERIES



In Tarpon Springs, the legacy of George Inness (1825-1894) and George Inness, Jr. (1853-1926), a father and son who both painted here at various points in their careers, has had a profound impact on this community. A visit to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs to see the 10 religious paintings created by George Inness, Jr. has been a pilgrimage of cultural and religious tourism for nearly a century. What visitors experience demonstrates the church’s stewardship of these important paintings, created between 1898 and 1926, to tell a vibrant story of art, philanthropy and spirituality. This pantheon of paintings represents one of the finest assemblages of artistic piety in American art history.

The Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art is honored to showcase these paintings, along with secular paintings created by George Inness, Jr. during his 24 years visiting Tarpon Springs. In addition to the Unitarian Universalist Church, lenders to the exhibition include the Cici and Hyatt Brown Collection, the Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society and the private collection of John Tarapani. The exhibition explores the history of George Inness, Jr., who wintered here until his death in 1926, and his wife, Julia Goodrich Smith Inness, who founded the public library and returned to Tarpon Springs each year until 1940. Their contributions and legacy in Tarpon Springs remain strong even today.

Special Exhibition

The Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art is deeply grateful to those who have made

this important exhibition possible:

Carol E. Martin Presenting Sponsor

Bright House Networks

City of Tarpon Springs

Frank and Katherine Martucci

Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs

Cici and Hyatt Brown Collection through the Museum of Arts & Sciences, Daytona Beach

Davidson’s Dockside

Hibu/Yellowbook

Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club

Panache Vue’

Port Tarpon Marina

Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society

Friends of Tarpon Springs Public Library

John Tarapani

St. Petersburg College




Celebrating Annual Fund donorsThe extensive Arts and Crafts collection of the Two Red Roses Foundation in Palm Harbor served as an eclectic backdrop for LRMA’s Annual Fund Celebration on March 20. Patrons were treated to an exclusive preview of the collection, which included furniture, pottery, tiles, paintings and prints from about 1900 to 1920. The collection will move to the soon-to-be built Museum of the American Arts and Crafts Movement in St. Petersburg in 2016.

Thank you to all of our loyal patrons who contributed to the fund and joined us for a unique evening!

Leave a legacy at LRMAJust as humans’ need for the arts existed before our time, people will need to be uplifted, inspired and educated long after we are gone. A carefully-considered, planned gift for LRMA can secure artistic excellence for future generations while honoring your legacy in perpetuity.

LRMA was established with an estate donation from Allen and Isabelle Leepa. There are many ways to give, such as bequests and charitable trusts. Think what your gift can accomplish—the perpetual support of the arts you love — and then talk with us. We will help you make it happen.

LRMA’s partnership with the St. Petersburg College Foundation enables us to provide professional and confidential assistance with estate planning matters. To start a conversation about planned giving, contact Shelly Clark, Development Officer, St. Petersburg College Foundation, Inc., at 727-712-5225.

Jane and Bill Shumacher with Jim and Mary Avery.

Curtis Rose lends his back to Dr. Carolyn Root so she can write a check for an additional donation. Dr. Root’s challenge to match the donation was quickly met.

Anitra and John Harmon take a “selfie” photo to remember the evening.

Pianist Rebecca Rose treated guests to musical delights on an antique piano.

Visit the Happenings section for more information on related Inness, Jr. events.

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ST PETERSBURG COLLEGEPO BOX 13489ST PETERSBURG FL 33733-3489

summer 2014JUNE – JULY – AUGUST

Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art

HoursTuesday, Wednesday, Saturday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.Thursday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.Friday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.Sunday: 1-5 p.m.Closed Mondays and July 4

Location Tarpon Springs Campus of St. Petersburg College600 Klosterman RoadTarpon Springs, FL 34689

Admission Adults – $6Seniors – $5Free for members, students with ID, children 17 and under, and active military.Sunday admission – suggested donation $5, but “pay what you can” and enjoy the museum!

Docent tours every Sunday at 2 p.m. (no charge).

727-712-5762 (LRMA)www.spcollege.edu/museum

www.facebook.com/leeparattner

LRMALeepa-Rattner Museum of Art

Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art extends its appreciation to the following corporate and community sponsors:

Thomas H. Maren/Emily Sabah-Maren Fund of the Maine Community Foundation

Kinder-Morgan Foundation

Cover Image:George Inness, Jr. (American, 1853-1926), Sunset on the Bayou, 1925, (Detail), Oil on canvas, 46 ¾ x 88 ¾ in., On loan from the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs, (photo credit: Barbara Kotacka)

VISITOR COMMENTS

From a guest at the March 2 Open House for the SPC Art Faculty Exhibition, featuring solo guitarist Joe Braccio: “Excellent in all ways. Wonderful, a joy to listen to. Thank you so much. The best party my tympanic membranes have had in years!”

“Excellent job on the tour, with amazing energy flowing from our docent, Nancy!”

“[LRMA is] top of the bill so far in this area… even better than [some of the bigger museums]!”

“I can’t thank you and your staff enough for your kindness, professionalism and welcome to all our students recently on our field trip to the museum. The kids loved it and had many questions for me about 20th century artists when we returned to school. Thank you so much—to Ann, Patti, Zee and your very professional docents. It was a great trip!”

Frank and Katherine Martucci Carol E. Martin



Walmart Supercenter Stores #4690, #5218 and #5381

LRMA is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, Washington, D.C., a distinction held by only 6% of all U.S. museums.

lrma summer 2014

Documents

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museum collections manager

works of art

petersburg college foundation

community sponsors

spc art faculty exhibition

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diverse community