Come join us for a sunset sail down the St. Lucie River on October 2, 2009 as we gather to enjoy the arts and all things water!
All proceeds from the event will benefit the Arts Council, Inc., a non-profit charity that provides services to visual and performing artists, arts organizations, students, and the public in Stuart and Martin County.
"The French have Monet and all those wonderful water lilies he painted," said David Vaina, who along with Krissy Simoneau and Ken Baker, is coordinating the event. "But we like to think the Treasure Coast has its own rich history of artists who have embraced water as an aesthetic, namely Julia Kelly, Kevin Hutchinson, and Harry McVay."
At the same time, water has played a significant role in the development of Martin County's economy--and will remain so as the region continues to adapt to evolving environmental and economic conditions.
"Water--specifically clean, safe water-is the driving force behind the growth of so many local industries: agriculture, tourism, recreation, citrus, and electricity, just to name a few," said Vaina.
Photographers--both amateurs and professionals--are invited to submit one digital photograph that captures a local, water-themed scene. Photographs will be displayed on the ship and Arts Council volunteers will award separate prizes to both adults and youths. In addition, winning photographs will be published in the Arts Council's MartinArts magazine. Those who wish to enter their photo must email it to tcriverboat@gmail.com by September 30 and include a brief description of the photo.
"We think that everyone has a story to share about their experience with water," said Vaina. "And what better way to express that then to snap a photo of the beach, the river, the swimming pool, the lake, or even a rainstorm."
The event will be held from 7:30 to 9:30 pm on October 2 on board the Island Princess cruise ship. Boarding will begin at 7:10 pm at the Finest Kind Marina at 3585 SE St. Lucie Blvd in Stuart. The cruise will feature live bluegrass music. Complimentary snacks and a full cash bar with wine, liquor, beer, bottled water, and soda will be available.
Tickets can be purchased by calling 772. 287. 6676 or online at www.martinarts.org. Tickets are $30 for non-members of the Arts Council, Inc., $25 for members, and $10 for students. Tickets must be purchased by September 30. Each ticket includes a complimentary alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage for those 21 and older and a complimentary non-alcoholic beverage for minors. All guests must present a valid form of identification to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages.
The Arts Council, Inc. serving Stuart and Martin County is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that supports the arts and artists. The Arts Council and the Court House Cultural Center Gallery are located at 80 E. Ocean Boulevard, Stuart, Florida. For information visit the Arts Council website at www.martinarts.org or call 772. 287. 6676.
The Arts Council is sponsored in part by the Florida Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, City of Stuart, Martin County Board of County Commissioners, and private contributions.