TWAA’s ‘Spring Fling’ swings

Hugh McMillan

Early the first Saturday in May, guests gathered for the TWAA-sponsored Spring Fling celebration at the Key Peninsula Civic Center. Photo by Hugh McMillan

Last month’s Two Waters Arts Alliance’s Spring Fling –– held at the Key Peninsula Civic Center –– was a wonderland of artists, their art, complete with live demonstrations by many, making hands-on craft-creations for children.

More than 150 art lovers attended the event. Hors d’oeuvres were provided by Richard Houle and offered to attendees by some 20 Key Peninsula school volunteers.

Thirty-five juried artists’ works were on display together with works by internationally recognized artists Tip Toland, Phoebe Toland, Richard Notkin and Barbara Lee Smith, the latter of whom “was also our juror,” said Taylor Reed, event chair.

Prizes awarded went to: Robin Peterson for first place; Kathy Bauer, second; and Myrna Binion, third place. The people's choice award went to Peninsula High School senior Molly Duttry.

A constantly changing slide show of KP historical photos created by Rodika Tollefson played silently over the gathering to the delight of many interested patrons.

There were both silent and live auctions of items offered for bid for the popular fundraiser.

According to Reed, the festive event brought in about $20,000. All funds are dedicated to TWAA’s “Artists in Schools Program,” which brings to schools local teaching artists and live performances by Tears of Joy theater groups.

Reed said between 4 and 6 p.m on the first Tuesday of each month, the public is invited to join artists gathering at the Blend Wine Shop in Key Center to talk art, and share work and learn from each other. “We call it Artists' Blend,” she said.

For information or to contribute TWAA’s community and educational programs in KP schools, visit twowaters.org.