By: Ann-Eliza Musoke Taylor
Co-Founder, Philanthropic Young Tampa Bay
As a young professional with an interest in the arts, I’m always thinking of ways I can support the arts in my community. With this thought in mind I approached Hampton Dohrman at a gallery opening in a West Tampa cigar factory to discuss how non-artists could use their skills and abilities to support the arts. We both thought that if young professionals began to support the arts early in their careers, they would continue to do so throughout their lives. The idea that grew out of that dialogue would become Philanthropic Young Tampa Bay (PYT).
Young professionals who are just starting their careers may not be in a financial position to make the kinds of donations that more established professionals can afford to make. But these same young professionals possess enthusiasm and a willingness to be involved in their community. PYT believes that given an opportunity to make a difference through locally based, financially feasible philanthropy and community involvement, Tampa’s young professionals would eagerly do so.
Much like micro-lending, the PYT approach is that through a community of members making small donations we can raise enough money to give something substantial and meaningful back to the community. For our inaugural project, PYT will raise money to purchase a piece of visual art by artist Janet Biggs which will be donated to the permanent collection of the Tampa Museum of Art. Each member of PYT will be personally recognized for their contribution on our website and in print in the St. Petersburg Times.
The PYT approach to philanthropic giving is based on the ideas of community and education. On February 17th, attendees to the PYT launch party will be treated to a private tour of the Tampa Museum of Art by Director Todd Smith, as well as a preview of the Janet Biggs visual art piece. Each PYT event will incorporate a behind the scenes view of the world of arts and culture. PYT members get to see their contribution dollars at work throughout their community while learning more about the artistic process amongst like minded professionals.
Upcoming events include:
Tampa Museum of Art
February 17, 7pm-9pm
Featuring a private tour with TMA Director Todd Smith
The Independent, Seminole Heights
March 10, 7pm-9pm
In partnership with Creative Tampa Bay
Featuring independent curator Kurt Piazza and Tempus Projects member Ashley Niven showcasing Tampa Bay video artists
The Bricks, Ybor City
April 14, 7pm-9pm
In partnership with Tampa Bay Social Club.
Featuring video artist and University of Tampa associate professor Santiago Echeverry
Fly Bar, Downtown Tampa
May 12, 7pm-9pm
Sponsored by Carmen Alvarez, CPA
Featuring film curator Brian Taylor showcasing art house films
Venue TBA
June 12, 7pm-9pm
Featuring a showing of Dali’s film work
Tampa Museum of Art – Private Show
June 30, 7pm-9pm
Featuring a private showing of the Janet Biggs mid-career retrospective
Please join us Thursday, February 17th from 7pm to 9pm for the Philanthropic Young Tampa Bay launch party at the Tampa Museum of Art.
For more information on upcoming events, becoming a member or becoming a patron, please visit www.PYTampa.org.
Tags: 20110216
Great post. I’m excited to be a part of this group!
Loved your post and would welcome participation on
behalf of the Dunedin Fine Art Center.
[...] more about the organization and their upcoming events at Creative Tampa Bay, or visit the Philanthropic Young Tampa Bay website to learn more or get [...]