Capital Culture Magazine: Fall 2008

Free! Fall 2008

PLUS... An Interview with photographer Edward Babcock, Reviews, the Fall Arts Calendar...and MUCH more!

Interview...............................................................................4 Stacy Corry interviews modern surrealistic photographer Edward Babcock about creative freedom, magic, and the pursuit of artistic perfection.

Cover Story..........................................................................8 Cultural Perspectives

Candidates for City and County Commission, State House and Senate, School Board, and more give their opinions on the state of the arts in our area and what government should (or shouldn’t) do to help.

REVIEW....................................................................................14 Book Review: Crossing the 50 Yard Line – Is there life after 50?

by Tallahassee freelance writer, photographer and artist Michèle Beaudin

CD Review: Willie Ames by Willie Ames with Kelli Baker

Profiles in the Arts.........................................................21 Gerry Leahy

In his alleged “retirement,” theatrical scenic, lighting, and costume designer Gerry Leahy hasn’t slowed down one bit.

REGULAR FEATURES

News of Note.......................................................................................... 2 COCA Notes........................................................................................ 15 More Than You Thought...................................................................... 16 Directory of Arts and Cultural Organizations and Businesses.................. 18

Illustration by Lorem Ipsum Design Studio

So said Tip O’Neill, and we couldn’t agree more. While much attention in the coming weeks will focus on the presidential election, there will also be many local and statewide contests decided on November 4th. Our city, county, and state elected officials directly influence the quality of our lives on every level. While COCA does not endorse any particular candidate, we are always happy to help you learn about your choices and gain a little insight into how they view and value arts and culture. Inside this issue of Capital Culture you’ll find some interesting perspectives that may help inform your decisions. The passage of Amendment 1 in January had a profound effect on our community’s ability to provide services to its public as well as our schools’ ability to continue to provide instructional quality, including arts experiences, for every child. This year there are six more proposed constitutional amendments on the general election ballot. The arts and cultural community cannot afford to be uninformed about the potential impact of some of these amendments. (For a non-partisan summary of the ballot initiatives in clear language, try www.votesmartflorida.org.) So let’s all step up by becoming informed about local candidates and issues, and carefully learn about the potential impact of constitutional amendments. Then we can exercise our individual voices by voting this November with the knowledge that we are making choices that will have a positive effect on our community and beyond. I’ll see you at the polls.

Peggy Brady

CONTRIBUTORS Stacy Corry is a writer and graphic designer who grew up in Tallahassee. While living in Los Angeles, she wrote comic books and short fiction before discovering that she could score free CDs, concert tickets and exclusive interviews with Duran Duran as an entertainment journalist. In 1997, she moved back to Tallahassee and opened a comic book shop (now defunct) called Skid’s Atomic Comics. She is currently the art director for a publishing firm, and lives with her husband, singer/songwriter Jesse Corry, their two dogs, and a turtle named Henry. She just finished designing the album cover for Soft Targets’ new CD, Heavy Rainbow, and is now busy writing a children’s book.

Capital Culture Magazine

J. Edward Sumerau received his Bachelor of Arts from Augusta State University, and recently moved to Tallahassee to pursue graduate study at Florida State University. The author of more than 150 book reviews, music reviews, and feature articles to date, his work has appeared in a variety of newspapers, magazines, and journals such as The Metro Spirit and Verge Magazine. On the weekends you can find him either buried in a book at a local coffee shop or roaming the cities parks on his bicycle.

www.morethanyouthought.com

Daniel Lyons was born in Ft. Lauderdale and grew up in the Broward County area. He moved to Tallahassee to attend Florida State, and finished his degree in English this year. Dan has contributed writing to Satellite Magazine and spent two years as a DJ at V-89 was formerly Capital Culture Magazine’s Editorial Intern. On the weekends you can find him either digging around the used record bins or paddling through one of the area’s beautiful waterways. And whichever sports season it is, you’ll find him in the stands rooting on the Noles.

Fall 2008 | 1

NEWS OF NOTE

enhakē

Congratulations The Tallahassee Film Festival has received a $60,000 grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. The grant will be used to help fund the festival’s first two years. In May more than 1,000 attended the first annual festival and 65 films were screened. Congratulations to the winners of 621 Gallery’s All-Media National Juried Exhibition (ANJE). Juror Allys Palladino-Craig selected The Boat by Tallahassee’s own Tadja Dragoo as Best in Show. The Character and Heritage Institute (formerly Rossier Productions) won the 2008 Tallahassee/Leon County Historic Preservation Award in the category of Preservation Education for production of its heritage education DVD, A Tour Through Yesteryear. The Florida Heritage Foundation and the Tallahassee Trust for Historic Preservation recently awarded the Tallahassee Museum its Award of Excellence for Organizational Achievement, recognizing the Museum’s work in historic preservation and interpretation over the past 50 years.

2 | Fall 2008

Jeanne Curtin, Gloria Pugh, Mayor John Marks and Jane Marks at the Tallahassee Film Festival

www.morethanyouthought.com

Capital Culture Magazine

NEWS OF NOTE Out & About In May, Florida State University’s enhakē (Jayoung Kim, cello; Wonkak Kim, clarinet, Eun-Hee Park, piano, M. Brent Williams, violin) made its successful Carnegie Hall debut to critical acclaim in the International Chamber Music Ensemble Competition (ICMEC) Winners Concert. The 2008 ICMEC attracted more than seventy chamber ensembles that included musicians from Italy, Argentina, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Spain, Canada, Israel, and the United States. Tallahassee business partners E’Layne Koenigsberg, Julie Rogers and Lora Davids, known as 3 Hip Chics, did their first wholesale art show, the ACRE show, in Las Vegas. A photograph taken by E’Layne of what appears to be three angels won “Best of Show” by New Age Retailer Magazine. Their story was featured in their September issue.

Welcome

The Tallahassee Watercolor Society welcomes new board officers for the 20082009 year: Rene Lynch takes over from outgoing President Eluster Richardson; Eluster continues on the board in the role of Past President. Tonya Toole was elected Secretary, and Carol Myer steps into the role of Publicity Chairperson. Railroad Square Art Park welcomes several new additions to its Shops and Studios. Fireants Studio, a collaboration of three artists, Elizabeth Burns, Suzanne Cress, and Jonathan Markham, is a both a working studio and exhibition gallery. LPs Music and More has the area’s largest and only locally owned vintage vinyl collection. They also carry new and used CDs, cassettes, turntables, and other stereo components, vinyl care supplies, needles, belts and more. The Spot on the Square is a consignment gallery and glass blowing studio. They make custom pieces and will offer flameworking classes. Prickly Pear Gallery is a working fused glass studio and art

gallery, and also carries a variety of other local and regional handmade art and gift items such as pottery, yard art, paintings, cards, designer handbags, home decor, and more. Big Bend Cares’ 10th annual art auction, Artopia 2008: Top Hats and Tails, was a smashing success, generating approximately $40,000 to provide HIV prevention and education services. Congratulations to first place award winner Tallahassee photographer Edward Babcock.

The Gadsden Arts Center in Quincy announces the return of Grace Maloy as Executive Director, and Angie Barry to the role of Curator. Maloy, the former Deputy Director and Education Director for the Vero Beach Museum of Art, relocated to Quincy and led Gadsden Arts in 2005-2006. Angie Barry is a former Gadsden Arts Docent who completed work on her Masters in Art Administration at FSU this summer. The Mary Brogan Museum is pleased to welcome four new members to its Board of Directors: Tammy Brockmeier, Immediate Past President of the Tallahassee Junior League; Matthew Carter, Chairman of the Florida Public Service Commission; Stuart Goldberg, Attorney and Partner at Goldberg & Olive; and Natalie Smith, Director of Regulatory Relations for Florida Power and Light. The Tallahassee Civic Chorale Board of Directors, with input from the general Chorale membership, has selected the Chorale’s new Music Director: Joanne van der VatChromy. A doctoral candidate at Florida State University’s College of Music, Joanne was most recently the Vocal Director of the American School of The Hague in the Netherlands.

Capital Culture Magazine

Several short films produced by Diane Wilkins Productions and Mickee Faust Films were shown around the country this summer. Weimar House premiered at the 13th Annual North Carolina Gay and Lesbian Film Festival in Durham, NC; Menopausal Gals Gone Wild was shown at the historic Castro Theatre as part of the San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival; and Disaster(abilities): Special Needs for Special Times was shown at two conferences: “Disabled Performers In (and Against) the Mainstream” in Colorado, and the Society for Disability Studies in New York.

www.morethanyouthought.com

Fall 2008 | 3

Looking Through Ed’s Corrective Lens An interview with Edward Babcock by Stacy Corry

T

he first impression you get when viewing Tallahassee photographer and digital artist Ed Babcock’s work is that he has captured something real. Sometimes this means simply framing a moment and making time stand still. Sometimes it means taking that moment and using it to create the hallucinatory quality of a dream. Ed has a romantic’s naturalistic approach to capturing images with his camera. Once he has found the perfect subject, he is able to enhance reality to suit his vision, utilizing an artistic arsenal that includes not only his trusty Nikon D200, but the graphic editing software, Adobe Photoshop. First he seeks out his subjects, navigating regional woods, beaches, old churches, rural farms, backstreets and storefronts to find fodder for his digital dallying. Then back in his studio, he crafts those images into elaborate, complex, beautifully atmospheric collage pieces. His artful distortion of lighting and perspective completely transforms the original images. He also incorporates innovative printing techniques, such as using metallic photo paper, which gives the final print a lustrous sheen, furthering the illusion of gazing through some fantastic window. To put it simply, Edward Babcock radiates a love for what he does. He has an infectious smile, a soothing voice, and is utterly approachable and enthusiastic about the subject of art. Recently, I was lucky enough to sit down with Ed and discuss with him just how he goes about this business of tweaking reality. SC: So, Ed…when and how did you first discover an interest in photography? Did you take lots of pictures as a kid? EB: Back in 1972 at Florida State University, I changed my major from religion to industrial arts education. I wasn’t really involved in photography or art as a young person, but then I started taking these courses like printing, photography, drafting, metal working, wood working…but what clicked for me was photography. SC: Where did that initial spark lead you?

EB: After graduation, I started teaching middle school industrial arts up in Cairo, Georgia. I started their program, and geared it towards photography and printing. I bought some used equipment and we converted the classroom bathroom into a darkroom. They loved it. We had a couple of 35mm cameras that the kids could take home overnight and take shots and they’d come back and develop the negatives and make pictures. Going into the darkroom and seeing a black and white photograph emerge from a white piece of paper…that was like magic to them. SC: Magic seems to be a bit of a theme in your creative life. Many of your pieces have a supernatural edge to them. What you render by way of juxtaposing your photographic images with digital effects is lush, surreal, atmospheric…how would you describe it? EB: My style of work vacillates between surreal, modern, Old World, mystical, and spiritual. I use a lot of symmetry and divine symbols. SC: When would you say was the turning point for you, when you went from part-time photographer to full-time artist? EB: At some point in my mid-thirties, the whole concept of creativity and the ability to create images was rekindled in me back from my college years. It was an epiphany, a real ‘a-ha!’ moment. About ten years ago, I was working full-time and raising two children. The time I had for creativity in my life was maybe five percent, maybe less. My creative energy was being diluted because I was dabbling with so many different things – metal work, wood working, stained glass... So I made a conscious decision. I was going to focus on just photography and see how good I could get. That was years ago, and it continues to be fun. Now I do it every day, every weekend. SC: How do you find your shots? Do you ever find it difficult to find a worthy subject? Is there a plan or do you just go out hoping for the best? EB: You have to be a gentle observer. You have to peer out, not looking at anything in particular. Let the world speak to you. When I’m in (continued on page 6)

4 | Fall 2008

www.morethanyouthought.com

Capital Culture Magazine

Capital Culture Magazine

www.morethanyouthought.com

July/August 2008 | 5

INTERVIEW that frame of mind, I’m much more successful, and I’m much happier with the result. The mantra is, “Shoot what presents itself.” When I’m not in the right frame of mind, I can’t be truly engaged in my work. Usually that happens when I’m not able to be present with my camera and in the moment. I can’t see. I’m tired, I’m in a bad mood, or I just dropped my lens, whatever. You can also just look too hard. I don’t do that anymore. I know now that that’s not how you see it. SC: But what happens when that serendipitous moment between art and life doesn’t happen? Do you ever shoot something in the field that you think is going to be amazing and then find that it doesn’t work in the studio? EB: I’ve learned that you can’t go back. You go down to shoot some pictures of a river and you realize you missed it, and you think, “Okay, I’ll go back and try again.” It’s not the same. It’s never the same. You’re not the same and it’s not the same. So if I didn’t get it, I didn’t get it. SC: You seem to have had a lot of luck. You certainly have an eclectic assortment of subjects in your portfolio. EB: I do everything from spiritual to surreal kinds of stuff to landscapes to portrait work. I’m doing what interests me. There are many other areas of my life where I operate within constraints, but not with my art. SC: With all that creative freedom, what are you finding most inspiring these days? EB: I want to do more portrait work. I’m really interested in trying to illuminate that authentic part of the person, to capture that on film. Our container is one thing; our essence, our personality, our radiance…that’s different. That’s what I’m trying to get when I photograph a person. There’s a certain sensitivity and warmness; that’s what I’m looking for when I take portraits of people. SC: One thing that is so captivating

6 | Fall 2008

Ed Babcock’s whimsically surreal collage piece, Wonderland, recently selected as “Best in Show” at Big Bend Cares’ Artopia auction.

about your images is the level of complexity. They are so dense, and have so much detail and subtlety, so many layers. How do you know when a piece is done?

flow through whatever I’m doing. I do my work because it brings me great joy. If I’m tired and can’t create, it’s not fun. If it’s not fun, I might as well be on the couch.

EB: [laughs] I will often go back and totally revamp an image, find a completely different perspective for its presentation. What inspires me to revisit something is often just discovering new skills with the software. Recently, I’ve made a quantum step forward, using tools I hadn’t really experimented with before. I hear artists talking about digital people being ‘dial turners,’ but the Photoshop is just an array of tools. You have arrows in your quiver that you pull out when it is time for you to truly create. What separates an artist from other people is the ability to take the right tool and apply it in an artistic fashion to get an inspiring result.

SC: Your pieces are constantly evolving. Do you think there will ever be a point where you feel like your work is perfect, like you have achieved everything you wanted to with it?

SC: What do you find are the greatest obstacles to the creative process? What presents you with your greatest challenge? EB: Exhaustion, definitely. If you’re tired, you can’t create. There’s nothing there. I want my spirit and my soul to

www.morethanyouthought.com

EB: Artwork is like wisdom. There’s no shortcut. You’ve got to put the time in. One of the benefits of having more time is that it’s not all dessert. I can refine things, not just do the fun stuff. Exploration and growth are part of the path. When that’s not there, you get predictable, or you get bored. There’s always room to learn more. Ed Babcock can be found most first Fridays at Railroad Square Art Park, showing his most recent work at South of SoHo Gallery. To see his portfolio or to purchase prints, visit his online galleries at www.edwardbabcock. com and edwardbabcock. boundlessgallery.com

Capital Culture Magazine

Advertisement

Fall is in the air, and many residents in our community are making their weekend pilgrimages to nearby beaches and theme parks. Before you pack up the towels and sand buckets, you might want to consider a weekend getaway a little closer to home. Did you know that the Tallahassee area is home to 63 recreational parks and over 306 miles of hiking/biking and walking trails?

I

City Commission Current Commissioner Mark Mustian faces write-in candidate Larry Hendricks in the general election for this non-partisan seat on the City Commission.

t’s election season, and the candidates are

answering question after question about what they think about everything from the economy to property taxes to storm water treatment. And now it’s our turn to ask. COCA sent out surveys to all the candidates for City Commission, County Commission, Constitutional Offices, School Board, and Florida House and Senate. The good news is that most of these candidates seem to understand the importance of arts and culture in our community! Here are some enlightening excerpts from their responses.

incumbent

How have you or your family members personally participated in the arts? How has it affected your lives? My daughters both take dance and perform at Tallahassee Dance Academy; I am an author. I think it has affected our lives in a unique and positive way – I can’t imagine life without it. What is your vision for our community’s cultural future? Keep pushing. Think world class. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)? I believe that the arts and culture are Tallahassee’s niche. We can support it, and help it thrive, or watch it wither and die. For someone who has never been to Tallahassee, how would you describe the arts and cultural scene? There’s more going on than they probably know about (to paraphrase a great ad line)!

Official Disclaimer: COCA does not endorse any candidate or position. All candidates for these offices were given the opportunity to respond to the same questions.

8 | Fall 2008

Mark Mustian,

Larry Hendricks, challenger

Larry Hendricks did not return our survey.

www.morethanyouthought.com

No Photo Available

Capital Culture Magazine

County Commission At-Large November brings a run-off election for this non-partisan County Commission seat. Current Commissioner Ed DePuy received 45% of votes in the primary to challenger Akin Akinyemi’s 31%.

Ed DePuy,

Akin Akinyemi, challenger

incumbent

What is your vision for our community’s cultural future? I am an avid supporter of “Arts on Gaines” and look forward to patronizing its many venues as they come on line. I am a dues paying member of the proposed Performing Arts Center, and am anxious to see it funded and built in our community in the near future. I am especially interested in the Capital Cascades Park and look forward to seeing this wonderful amenity become a reality to help revitalize our Downtown area. These three projects will go a long way towards realizing some longtime dreams of dramatically enhancing the “quality of life” that we are all so proud of in our home town. Tell us about one of your favorite local arts education programs, teachers, or schools. Number one in my book has got to be the Boys’ Choir of Tallahassee. Not only because of their wonderful music, but because of the tremendous positive lessons that these young leaders of tomorrow are being taught through their participation in this excellent program. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)? I think that government plays a crucial role in supporting the arts in our community. Year in and year out I have been a strong advocate of working hand-in-hand with the arts community to make sure that an adequate level of government funding was provided along with participation from the private sector to keep our cultural programs alive and well. For someone who has never been to Tallahassee, how would you describe the arts and cultural scene? I truly believe that they would be pleasantly surprised at the “culture” that exists here in our region. We need to do a better job of letting the world know of our many wonderful “treasures” that we have here.

Capital Culture Magazine

What is your vision for our community’s cultural future? The recent film festival and the push for the Performing Arts Center are key steps to a culturally vibrant Tallahassee. The development of a 24-hour downtown will also promote informal street art/ entertainment and enrich lives on a more continuous basis. More cultural exchanges and the development of The Character and Heritage Institute will also foster greater cultural awareness and understanding. Tell us about one of your favorite local arts education programs, teachers, or schools. There are too many to single out a particular one. The use of art as a fundamental teaching tool in early childhood education is essential in promoting self-confidence, hand dexterity, and cognitive skills. The idea of displaying children’s artwork in public buildings is also a morale booster. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)? Traditional, arts and culture have either been poorly funded and are typically the first to be cut. The cost benefit of arts and cultural events need to be documented as they relate to increased learning, decrease in youth crime, and the overall attitude or “happiness” factor. This documentation needs to be provided to those officials responsible for budget recommendations. In addition to direct increased funding, the government should promote private, local, state and international investment in arts and culture. For someone who has never been to Tallahassee, how would you describe the arts and cultural scene? The arts and cultural scene in Tallahassee is emerging. There are a few world-renowned artists in town; our fine arts and film schools produce incredible talent. The Tallahassee community is embracing the idea of a world-class performing arts presence in Tallahassee.

www.morethanyouthought.com

Fall 2008 | 9

Florida House of Representatives, District 8 This seat is currently held by Democrat Curtis Richardson, who was unable to run again due to term limits. The district covers parts of Leon and Gadsden Counties.

Alan Williams, Democrat

How have you or your family members personally participated in the arts? How has it affected your lives? My family and I have participated in the arts in a number of ways. I have served on the Board of Directors of the Boys’ Choir of Tallahassee for three years. I also serve on the boards of the Challenger Learning Center and the Tallahassee Museum. In addition, I enjoy amateur visual arts expression, and have participated in two art shows (painting and photography) put on by the City of Tallahassee. My wife, Opal, attended a magnet arts middle school in South Florida and currently serves on the board of the Tallahassee Ballet. My daughter has been involved in dance for over four years, and is an incoming member of the Tallahassee Ballet. She has also participated with the Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre Camp at the Florida A & M University Essential Theatre. We believe in the arts and its importance in our community from an economic and cultural viewpoint. The arts bring diversity of thought and experience to the each member of our community. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)? The role that local government played in the adoption of the Cultural Plan several years ago along with the facilitation of land acquisition for a performing arts center is a great way for local government to be an active partner in the arts and culture community. I believe that the government can offer assistance to art organizations. Arts and culture entities play an invaluable role from an economic development perspective, because for every dollar invested in the arts and cultural programs has a $17 return on investment. So, it makes “cents” and it truly makes sense for government to be an active partner in the arts community. For someone who has never been to Tallahassee, how would you describe the arts and culture scene? The arts and culture scene in Tallahassee is continuously evolving and maturing. We have great cultural assets that consist of both our natural resources and our incredible museums and art galleries. This is great because it allows visitors to our community to experience the beauty of North Florida and some of the greatest art galleries in the Southeastern United States.

10 | Fall 2008

Robert Maddox,

no party affiliation How have you or your family members personally participated in the arts? How has it affected your lives? I played the alto sax in the Tallahassee Home School Band, which was directed by David Williams, for four or five years. I went to Florida College in Temple Terrace (which is just outside of Tampa) for two years and was heavily involved in the school’s plays and other productions, mostly in the behind the scenes work. In my second year there, I was in charge of all the sound and lighting for the school. Those are memories that I will definitely treasure for the rest of my life. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)? I do not think that the government should play a significant role in the development of arts and culture. I tend to think that people are much better at deciding what kind of arts and culture they like and are therefore willing to support. Any time the government gives money to someone, they have to get that money first by taxing people. Taxation is, by definition, the taking of money or goods from the citizens by their government, using the threat of force or civil penalties. So then, whenever the government gives a grant for whatever purpose, it is pulling that money right out of your wallet. Wouldn’t it be better if you could know that your money is being used to support the things that you like, rather than it going to support what some bureaucrat likes? For someone who has never been to Tallahassee, how would you describe the arts and culture scene? I think that Tallahassee has a nice cultural scene here. Like your website says, “more than you thought.” There’s always something going on somewhere.

www.morethanyouthought.com

Capital Culture Magazine

Florida House of Representatives, District 9 This seat is currently held by Democrat Loranne Ausley, who was unable to run again due to term limits. The district covers a large part of Leon County and the northeast corner of Jefferson County.

MichelLe Rehwinkel Vasilinda, Democrat

What sorts of arts and cultural events do you and your family attend? Are there any festivals or events you look forward to every year? My husband and I are members of the Symphony Society, season ticket holders for the Tallahassee Symphony. We have been sponsors for ten of the eleven years of the Plantation Wildlife Arts Festival in Thomasville; we have sponsored the Wine Festival to benefit the Brogan. Each family vacation, whether it be to Boston, Chicago, New York, London, Paris, or other major city, has always included trips to major museums. I am an honorary member of the board of the Tallahassee Girls Choir of C.H.O.I.C.E. and a founding supporter of the Women in Arts Museum in Washington, D.C. My husband, Mike Vasilinda, currently serves on the COCA Board. What is your vision for our community’s cultural future? Cultural arts are the gravity that provide a consciousness to a community. Arts give the community meaning and define our society. We learn from centuries of art and we value what has come before us. We must nurture the art within a community to grow. The arts are an incentive for growth. A thriving arts community is a thriving business community. If we are to grow, we must embrace the intangibles of a thriving 18-hour downtown and a vibrant arts community on Gaines Street. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)? Government should serve as an incubator for the arts and provide tax incentives for the creation of cultural opportunities. Government must be a partner with the arts community. Growing the arts will grow our tax base. Government cannot be expected to be the sole source of incentives for a growing arts community, but when the community has demonstrated a willingness to be a full partner, government must do what only government can do. As public officials we must demonstrate our commitment to cultural opportunities and view them as a way to enhance our quality of life.

Capital Culture Magazine

For someone who has never been to Tallahassee, how would you describe the arts and cultural scene? The arts and cultural scene are alive and well, offering an unusually large number of opportunities for cultural enrichment for a community of this size.

Peter Boulware, Republican

Peter Boulware did not return our survey.

John Shaw, no party affiliation

What sorts of arts and cultural events do you and your family attend? Are there any festivals or events you look forward to every year? My sister and I attend the Highland Festivals on a yearly basis. I also attempt to make an appearance (and dance!) at all of the Downtown Getdown events during football season. What is your vision for our community’s cultural future? Very simply, I see a very progressive movement towards becoming a more culturally involved city. I think people are getting more and more stressed about the current happenings in the world, and finding sanctuary in entertainment and the arts. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)? I think it’s important for the government to fairly distribute funds throughout different arts and cultural groups in the State of Florida. Entertainment is a crucial aspect in maintaining sanity in every person’s life. Government support is essential. For someone who has never been to Tallahassee, how would you describe the arts and cultural scene? Tallahassee has a unique and homely atmosphere that our cultural scene absorbs. Along with our parades, festivals, and art galleries, we have several entertaining theatrical groups that really know how to put on a good show.

www.morethanyouthought.com

Fall 2008 | 11

State Senate District 3 Democrat Suzan Franks challenges incumbent State Senator Charlie Dean for the seat in District 3. The district covers parts of Leon, Jefferson, and Madison Counties, and stretches as far east as Baker County and as far south as Citrus County.

Here are excerpts from the surveys of some of our newly elected or re-elected public officials. These candidates were unopposed or the contests were settled in the primary.

Suzan Franks, Democrat

How have you or your family members personally participated in the arts? How has it affected your lives? I am a watercolor artist and my entire family has been involved in the arts my whole life. We were involved in the initiation of the Marble Head Art Festival in Marble Head, MA. I still enjoy painting and belong to the Art Center of Citrus County, where I was asked to teach watercolor painting. I will always be supportive of the arts and the art community. Where are your favorite places in Tallahassee or the surrounding areas to take visitors? Are there any “hidden gems” or “off the beaten path” places you love to go? In Tallahassee I enjoy going to Railroad Square and attending ‘Seven Days of Opening Nights’ or the FSU Prism concert. Some of the ‘off the beaten path’ places I enjoy are going to the art and antique shops in Havana. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)? The funding of arts education of all kinds in the public schools is the main way the government should support artistic and cultural activities. For someone who has never been to Tallahassee, how would you describe the arts and cultural scene? Tallahassee is a vibrant, diverse and exciting cultural and artistic community. I would encourage anyone who visits or lives in Tallahassee to take full advantage of the artistic city they are in.

Charles Dean, Republican State Senator Charles Dean did not return our survey.

City Commissioner Andrew Gillum

What is your vision for our community’s cultural future? I look forward to a community that extends the culture and arts experience into all communities and neighborhoods. I look forward to vibrant night life and weekend activity that accompanies a cultural community. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)? The government should help create an environment that is friendly to the arts. It is beneficial to the quality of life of the community to have a successful arts and cultural community. For someone who has never been to Tallahassee, how would you describe the arts and cultural scene? I’d suggest that we are a community on the verge of creating a more than active cultural scene. I’d encourage visitors to take complete advantage of events as they learn about them. I would describe the awesome shift taking place on Gaines Street and boast about the existing assets of the cultural and arts community.

Sheriff Larry Campbell

How have you or your family members personally participated in the arts? How has it affected your lives?I am the least talented family member but have appeared in several plays as fundraisers for Young Actors Theatre. I have also done the same as a Board Member for the Urban League, by performing as Garth Brooks and Willie Nelson. Additionally, I have posed as a model, and recruited others, for my lifelong friend Sandy Proctor, who was sculpting a statue of The Fallen Officer for the Florida Sheriff’s Association. My family’s and my greatest pleasure is certainly the Broadway Stage. I have been a season patron of The Broadway Series at the Leon County Civic Center since its inception. I have also traveled to Jacksonville, Atlanta, and New York to attend plays. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)? I think government should provide support for the arts and other activities which bring

12 | Fall 2008

www.morethanyouthought.com

Capital Culture Magazine

increased revenue to our country. The rooms rented, meals eaten, gas bought and other incidental expenses of the visitors generate tax dollars our government uses for many diverse expenditures. I think such investments help stimulate our economy in major way. For someone who has never been to Tallahassee, how would you describe the arts and cultural scene? I would describe Tallahassee as a city in a state of transition from small town to medium or large city, depending on your perspective. Our “Art Community” is relatively small, as there has been little effort in assisting it to become a tourist attraction and revenue producing asset that can be found in many other cities. I would describe the Gaines Street and Railroad Avenue as the local hub of small business engaging in the development and sale of art objects.

Forrest Van Camp, School Board Seat 1

Where are your favorite places in Tallahassee or the surrounding areas to take visitors? My family and friends like to drive and enjoy the many dirt/canopy roads; especially Orchard Pond Road, Old Centerville Road to the Georgia line and Natural Bridge Road to Highway 59. Tell us about one of your favorite local arts education programs, teachers, or schools. The best art and music programs are at Roberts Elementary School. All school year the special area teachers involve art and music in the total curriculum. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)? Governmental funding structures should recognize that art and music are CORE curriculum issues, not supplemental programs. Unless attitudes change, funding may be lost for art, music and P.E.

Dee Crumpler,

School Board Seat 2

How have you or your family members personally participated in the arts? How has it affected your lives? Our family has been a long time participant and supporter of the arts. Specifically, we have supported the LeMoyne Art Foundation and sent our children to their summer camps for the past twelve years. Our daughters also have participated in a number of local productions as well as their high school chorus. These experiences have all helped to bring our family much closer and enriched our lives in many untold ways. As the current Chairman of the Leon County School Board, I have specifically been steadfast in my support of the arts to include maintaining our seventh period day in our high schools, which allows our children to participate in the arts.

Capital Culture Magazine

Where are your favorite places in Tallahassee or the surrounding areas to take visitors? For great jazz music there is no other place like the Bradfordville Blues Club on a cold night when at intermission you can enjoy the “bon-fire.” As for fine art, we enjoy taking visitors to the LeMoyne Art Gallery and First Fridays. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)? Our local governments – both City and County – and our School Board should continue to support arts and culture, both financially and in any other way possible. Arts and culture, and the level of funding provided, is a true reflection on a community’s ability to attract and maintain a highly educated workforce.

DeeDee Rasmussen, School Board Seat 4

How have you or your family members personally participated in the arts? How has it affected your lives? As a young person, I benefitted greatly from music education in school. For as long as I can remember, I participated in choral programs, voice lessons and in select ensembles, where I learned so much – not just about music (which has a substantial academic component), but also about the value of hard work in rehearsal, poise, confidence and more. Although I have great respect and appreciation for accomplished actors and vocalists, I have to admit that watching my own kids perform is the greatest treat ever. I’m always so proud to see them really enjoying the thrill of a well-rehearsed performance and living to the best of their abilities. Specifically, how do you believe that the government should provide support for arts and culture (if any)?I think most elected officials and business leaders in Tallahassee understand the relationship between economic development and a community’s art/cultural capacity. Businesses want/need to be located in a place where their employees will be happy; thus, a city’s ability to successfully compete for clean industry and the creation of new jobs is directly related to good schools, low crime, and an overall quality of life that includes art and culture. For academic reasons as well, I strongly support music and art programs in our public schools, colleges and universities. I also appreciate the return on investment with tax dollars that are appropriately and carefully invested in community programs. For someone who has never been to Tallahassee, how would you describe the arts and cultural scene? There’s something for everyone! Tallahassee has such a wide variety of things to do, from school and community theatres to the music halls, from the First Friday Gallery Hop to art lessons at LeMoyne. Art in our community is vibrant and growing but it needs the continued support of our collective efforts to fortify and expand our cultural landscape which will preserve and enhance our overall quality of life in Tallahassee.

www.morethanyouthought.com

Fall 2008 | 13

REVIEWS Book Review

Crossing the 50 Yard Line

by Michèle Beaudin 332 pages Publisher: Immiges and Words Press November 18, 2007 Available at: • Amazon.com, immiges.com, and at the Black Dog Café In a wonderful examination of the stages of life, Tallahassee freelance writer, photographer, and artist Michèle Vachon Beaudin tells the story of seven different women in a beautiful composition of narratives entitled Crossing the 50 Yard Line: Is there life after 50? Built upon a framework of short stories, Crossing the 50 Yard Line follows the lives of seven women in

CD Review

Willie Ames Willie Ames

Self Released Genre: Rock and roll Available at: • cdbaby.com, iTunes More information at: • www.myspace.com/willieames

14 | Fall 2008

different locations and situations, all facing the universal issue of elder status in the contemporary world. A staunch spokeswoman for feminist issues, Beaudin’s stories provide a framework of understanding and choice to women facing a culture that devalues their later years. With wit and sincerity, Beaudin highlights the diversity, strength, and passion that can be found in the average woman. In so doing, she underscores a variety of options for women in search of meaning and experience beyond the cookie-cutter choices provided by the mainstream media. Particularly charming are the young-love possibilities found in the story of Barbara and the beautiful creativity sparked by a trip overseas in the story of Lucy. Furthermore, the introspective, intimate portrayal of experience offered in the tale of Julie provides an example of the turmoil and diversity found in a woman’s heart. In all the stories, Beaudin beautifully captures the diverse nature of the feminine

existence, and offers extensive examples of the myriad of possibilities found in the simple pursuit of fulfillment. Beaudin’s offering is a perfect contribution to an imaginative mind seeking meaning in a chaotic world. With wit and passion, she explores the needs and desires hidden in the hearts of women. A mother of three and a grandmother of six, Beaudin is currently involved in educating the world through Peace Corps endeavors focused on Morocco, and is planning the publication of her next book based on her time in that country.

Willie Ames’ self-titled album begins with a stunner of a song. The instrumental opener “Ice Breaker” sounds like it fits in the background of a spaghetti western, with its precise finger picking and cymbal splashes. The track exhibits the skill Ames has on the guitar, and it is clear he’s been working on his craft for quite some time. Ames’ shows direction and confidence with his guitar arrangements here, but it is evident that he is not as comfortable with the songwriting portion just yet. His voice has the same qualities as Stephin Merritt of the Magnetic Fields, yet Ames pushes into ranges that he is not quite capable of reaching. Nonetheless, Ames sounds great on “Johnny Cash” and “Murder She Wrote,” a duet with Kelli Baker. He sounds the best on these tracks because he is in character. On “Murder She Wrote” he sounds like deranged domestic abuser, and his voice fits the character of the song perfectly. On “Johnny Cash,”

though his voice doesn’t resemble the gravel-voiced country singer’s, he has found the range that fits his vocals comfortably, and he showcases a truly unique voice. Ames cites Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac as one of his major influences, and this is apparent with the banjo picking that supports the superior singing by Kelli Baker on “Murder She Wrote.” Instead of recruiting a witch vocalist like Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks, he found Baker, whose voice sounds similar to many of today’s pop divas. The pairing is perfect, with Ames’ rootsy arrangements and Baker’s accessible voice on the final seven unlisted tracks on the album. They both display their artistic qualities, with neither Willie nor Kelli hogging the spotlight. I suggest you give a listen to one of Tallahassee’s better collaborations.

www.morethanyouthought.com

J. Edward Sumerau

Dan Lyons

Capital Culture Magazine

NOTES

Due to popular demand, Education Director Amanda Thompson organized a second warm glass workshop for educators, hosted by the FSU Master Craftsman Studios. Led by local glass artist Lesley Nolan, the five-day workshop covered techniques including fusing, slumping, silk screening and molding that can be taken back and applied in local art classrooms.

COCA participated in the 2008 Florida Neighborhoods Conference for neighborhood leaders and citizens, community advocates, non-profit organizations and professionals who work with neighborhoods. COCA helped organize an Arts Tour of downtown Tallahassee including LeMoyne, City Hall Art Gallery, Mary Brogan Museum, FSU Master Craftsman Studio, Railroad Square as well as a brief tour of Cascades Park, the proposed Arts Exchange and Performing Arts Center sites, and the All Saints Neighborhood. Clint Riley spoke to the group about COCA’s programs, the Arts Exchange, and Art in Public Places. COCA continues to assist major national artist John Henry with the Tallahassee arm of his new exhibit Drawing in Space: the Peninsula Project. One of his monumental sculptures will be on display in Doug Burnette Park from November 2008 to May 2009. The Mary Brogan Museum and the Museum of Florida History will each display elements of Mr. Henry’s body of work that complement the outdoor installation.

Capital Culture Magazine

www.morethanyouthought.com

Out and About • Art in Public Place Director Leslie Puckett’s artwork was featured in the Artist League’s annual members’ juried exhibition at the FSU Museum of Fine Arts. • Education Director Amanda Thompson was recently appointed to the board of the Community Classroom Consortium. She’ll serve as an advisor for the group and will again chair the Teacher Grant Committee. Amanda was also given the “Active Member of the Year” award for her community service through the Junior League of Tallahassee. • Congratulations to COCA board member Mike Vasilinda for his business, Mike Vasilinda Productions, being named 2008 Small Business of the Year Award (5-30 employees category) at the Small Business Excellence Awards.

Fall 2008 | 15

ARTS CALENDAR Let the glorious spirit of the season surround you as the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra collaborates with the TSO Chorus for Holiday Magic. Enjoy cheery seasonal selections and sing along to your holiday favorites! There will be two performances on December 13 at the First Baptist Church downtown. The matinee presents a few surprises, with guest performers from the Tallahassee Symphony Youth Orchestras and a visit from Old St. Nick.

COCA’s MoreThanYouThought.com is a free, on-line interactive community events calendar. Everyone is invited to post their events (art-related and otherwise) to the calendar for no charge. Here is a small sampling of the events posted for the Fall 2008... (Note: All events are subject to change without notice. Check www.MoreThanYouThought.com, or contact the individual organizations listed for updated information.)

ART & EXHIBITS

Through October 26, see the return of LeMoyne Center for the Visual Arts’ popular Jewelry Invitational 2008. This year’s exhibition of handmade art jewelry, titled Feathers, Fins and Foliage, is paired with a juried exhibition of handmade artist books with Florida nature themes, curated by Leslie Puckett, Beth Lee, and Julie DeHoff. For information, call 222-8800. Through October 24, the 621 Gallery pays tribute to founder, artist and friend Charles E. Hook with the Charles Hook Retrospective. This life-long collection of sculpture honors the memory of Charles Hook and his contribution to the field of sculpture. This exhibit will showcase a range of works that illustrate how Hook’s style and technique developed over time. For information, call 224-6163. In conjunction with Quilters Unlimited of Tallahassee, the Museum of Florida History presents the 27th Annual Capital City Quilt Show: Through The Looking Glass. Beautifully hand-crafted and machine-made quilts and wall hangings are on display through November 9. Visitors get the chance to register for the “Opportunity Quilt” to be given away at the end of the show. For more information, call 245-6400. Join the 621 Gallery on Friday, November 21st for the 15th Annual Art Auction. An exciting evening of live and silent auctions provide an opportunity to purchase original art from Tallahassee’s finest and most renowned artists. Silent Auction begins at 5:30 pm and the Live Auction begins at 8 pm. For information, call 224-6163.

16 | Fall 2008

The Tallahassee Museum, with Capital Health Plan, pays tribute to early practices of medicine – including country doctors, traditional native practices, and struggles against epidemics – in a meticulously researched exhibit titled A Picture of Health in Florida: 1830-1930. The exhibit presents a rich array of objects, historical medical artifacts, photographs, quotations, and text panels to give visitors a virtual tour of yesteryear Florida’s health-care landscape. Through April 9, 2009. For information, call 575-8684.

DANCE

If you want to get up and dance, try Swing Dancin’ in the Street on October 18 at the Knott House Museum. This free annual event is reminiscent of the 1930s and 1940s. Take free dance lessons at 6:30 pm and then dance the night away as the Tallahassee Swing Band plays those memorable tunes beginning at 7 pm. For information, call 922-2459.

MUSIC

Powerful music reflecting and memorializing tragedies of war and moments of peace, the War and Peace concert by the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra will transport you through every human emotion. Renowned baritone Kamel Boutros and mezzo soprano Claritha Buggs-Jacobs join the TSO at the Bradfordville First Baptist Church on October 18. For ticket information please contact 224-0461. On October 19, enjoy a free concert under the oaks at Goodwood Museum and Gardens, featuring music of India performed by Nalini Vinayak and Deviprasad. Part of the Housewright Music Series. For information, call 877-4202. Spend an afternoon of delightful orchestra music with A Tribute to the Armed Forces, presented by the Big Bend Community Orchestra on November 9 at Lee Hall Auditorium on the FAMU campus. For information, call 893-4567.

www.morethanyouthought.com

Swing Dancin’ in the Street

The Nutcracker Ballet is a treasured classic that delights audiences of all ages who are dazzled by dancing and enchanting sets and costumes, and warmed by the familiar Tchaikovsky score. Join the Tallahassee Ballet on December 5 and 6 for their first time performing at the Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center. If you have little ones, don’t miss the special abbreviated morning performance especially for them. Call 222-0400 for tickets.

THEATRE

Theatre A La Carte presents Nine, the Tony Award-winning musical about an Italian film director and the many women in his life. The show runs October 3-5 and 10-12 at the Tallahassee Little Theatre. For tickets, call 2248474 or visit www.theatrealacarte.org. November 14-23, Young Actors Theatre presents Oliver!, a splendid family musical

Capital Culture Magazine

ARTS CALENDAR based on Charles Dickens’ classic, Oliver Twist. The thrilling escapades of Oliver take you from the London workhouse, to Fagin’s kitchen, to the home of his wealthy relatives with memorable songs like “As Long As He Needs Me” and “Food Glorious Food.” Call 386-6602 for tickets. Bright and riotously funny, The Pajama Game is theatre at its very best. The high-energy score brims with popular hits and musical theatre standards such as “Hey There,” “Steam Heat” and the hilarious “Hernando’s Hideaway” that will keep you humming all the way home. Part of the 2008-09 Broadway Series at the Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center on November 19. Call 222-0400 for tickets. Nominated for eleven Tony Awards including Best Musical, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, based on the blockbuster film, is a scamming, scheming, double crossing Broadway smash. Set on the glamorous Riviera, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels follows two con artists as they take on the lifestyles of the rich and shameless - and end up with more than they bargain for. Part of the 2008-09 Broadway Series at the TallahasseeLeon County Civic Center on December 8. Call 222-0400 for tickets.

FESTIVALS

On October 5, visit the Fall Sampler at Pebble Hill Plantation, in Thomasville, GA. This annual event for the entire family features live music, equestrian and retriever demonstrations, pony and wagon rides, Main House samplings, petting zoo, good food and much, much more. For further information, call 229-226-2344. The Tallahassee Museum’s 14th Annual Halloween Howl features goblins and ghosts and things that go bump in the night. Check out the Museum’s famous haunted trail, where a surprise lurks around each turn. Less frightening trails are available for younger children, plus costume contests and more. Don’t miss this howling good time October 24 and 25. Call 575-8684 for more information. With a reputation for providing outstanding hospitality and attracting unparalleled talent, the Plantation Wildlife Arts Festival at the Thomasville Cultural Center has become one of America’s premier wildlife and sporting arts festivals. Explore room after room of sculpture, painting, photography, carving, and jewelry as your family enjoys entertaining and educational supporting events and a fun festival atmosphere. The 13th annual event is on November 22 and

Capital Culture Magazine

On October 11, bring your pet to Mission San Luis be blessed in the Mission’s re-created 17thcentury church during the traditional Blessing of Animals. Pets will receive treats, and photographs of individual blessings will be available for purchase. The Blessing of Animals originated in the 13th century, in remembrance of St. Francis. Similar ceremonies are held across the country each October. For information, call 487-3711.

23 in Thomasville, GA. Call 229-226-0588 for information. For three days the FSU Museum of Fine Arts turns into the most amazing and colorful marketplace of unique handmade fine crafts, antiques of every description, fine art prints and unusual inventions by contemporary artists as well as wonderful discoveries of antiques dealers. This free annual Art and Antiques Fair runs from December 4 to 6. For information, call 644-6836.

www.morethanyouthought.com

On December 14, spend time with friends, family, and Santa on the relaxed and enchanting grounds of Goodwood Museum and Gardens. Spend the afternoon making with games, arts and crafts, and exhibits at the Making Spirits Bright Family Fun Day, and experience the charm and innocence of Christmas long ago. Also at Goodwood, take an elegant candlelight tour of the main house on December 10. The lights of hundreds of candles, decorations, and music will surely put you in the holiday spirit. Call 877-4202 for more information.

Fall 2008 | 17

Arts & Cultural Organizations and Businesses

Unless otherwise specified, all area codes are 850.

LEGEND

See www.cocanet.org for expanded listings Highlighted are COCA members Official First Friday participant live performances and events exhibitions/attractions opportunities to participate adult classes things to buy programs/classes for kids

Dance

African Caribbean Dance Theatre 539-4087, www.fadf.org African Music and Dance, 508-2127, www.africanmusicanddance.org Argentine Tango Society of Tallahassee 222-2211, www.tangotallahassee.com Corazon Dancers (954) 614-9136 Essence Dance Theatre 412-7525, [email protected] FSU Department of Dance 644-1023, dance.fsu.edu Halimeda’s Oasis 421-5151, www.halimedasoasis.com Head Over Heels Dancewear 224-5140, www.head-over-heels.com In Step Studio 421-5151, www.instepstudio.com Killearn Performing Arts 443-7512 or 894-9364, www.killearnpa.com Kollage Dance Troupe 645-1385, Maggie Allesee National Center For Choreography (MANCC) 645-2449, www.mancc.org Mahogany Dance Theatre, 561-2318, [email protected] Mountain Dew Cloggers 386-1263, www.clogforfun.com Orchesis Contemporary Dance Theatre 599-8678 Performing Arts Center of Tallahassee, 562-1430, performingartscenteroftallahassee.com Prophecy School of the Arts 222-8085, www.prophecyarts.net Rhythm Rushers Bahamian Junkanoo Group 412-7087, [email protected] Sharon Davis Schools of Dance 893-5900 Southern Academy of Ballet Arts 222-0174 18 | Fall 2008

The Tallahassee Ballet 224-6917, www.tallaballet.com Tallahassee Community Friends of Old Time Dance, 421-1559, www.tallydancer.com Tallahassee Swing Band Dances 894-3789, [email protected] Tallahassee Zydeco & Cajun Association (TAZACA) 212-0431, [email protected] Tribal Wallah Dance Troupe 459-0371, www.tribalwallah.net USA Dance, 562-1224, homepage.mac.com/ mweininger/tallusabda Wildwood Ballet, 891-1400, www.wildwoodpca.org

Film & Video

Diane Wilkins Productions 893-1441, www.dianewilkinsproductions.com FSU Film School 644-7728, filmschool.fsu.edu FSU Student Life Cinema 644-4455, movies.fsu.edu IMAX Theatre at the Challenger Learning Center 645-STAR, www.challengertlh.com Mike Vasilinda Productions 224-5420, www.mvptv.tv Tallahassee Film Society 386-4404, www.tallahasseefilms.com Video 21, 878-3921

History/Heritage

Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park 487-4115, www.floridastateparks.org The Black Archives Research Center & Museum www.taltrust.org/blkarchv.htm Character & Heritage Institute 224-0372, www.thechinstitute.org The Florida Historic Capitol & Legislative Research Center 487-1902, www.flhistoriccapitol.gov Goodwood Museum & Gardens 877-4202, www.goodwoodmuseum.org Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratories (Panacea, FL) 850-984-5297, www.gulfspecimen.org John G. Riley Center/Museum of African American History and Culture, 681-7881, www.rileymuseum.org Kirk Collection www.wfsu.org Knott House Museum 922-2459, museumoffloridahistory.com Lichgate on High Road 383-6556 Mildred and Claude Pepper Museum & Library 644-9311, www.claudepepper.org/museum Mission San Luis 487-3711, www.missionsanluis.org www.morethanyouthought.com

Museum of Florida History 245-6400, museumoffloridahistory.com Pebble Hill Plantation (Thomasville, GA) 229-226-2344, www.pebblehill.com San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park (St. Marks, FL), 925-6216 Tallahassee Automobile Museum 942-0137, www.tacm.com Tallahassee Museum 575-8684, www.tallahasseemuseum.org Tallahassee Trust for Historic Preservation 488-7100, www.taltrust.org Tours In Tallahassee 561-0317 or 212-2063, www.toursintallahassee.com

Literary

Anhinga Press 442-1408, www.anhinga.org Apalachee Press 942-5041, [email protected] Back Talk Poetry Troupe 459-7399, www.blackonblackrhyme.com CyPress Publications 576-8820, cypress-starpublications.com Digital Pulp www.digitalpulp.org Florida Literary Arts Coalition www.floridarts.org LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library 606-2665, www.leoncountylibrary.org Paperback Rack 224-3455 Society of Childrens Book Writers & Illustrators 656-3410, [email protected] Tallahassee Writers’ Association 671-3731, www.twaonline.org

Multi-disciplinary

Center for Fine Arts Education 254-0123, www.cfaefl.org Downtown Marketplace 224-3252,www.tallahasseedowntown.com Florida Center for Performing Arts and Education,8932497, [email protected] Florida Arts and Community Enrichment (F.A.C.E.) 644-8533, [email protected] Pyramid Studios 513-1733, www.pyramidinc.org Seven Days of Opening Nights 644-7670 Tallahassee Leon County Civic Center 487-1691, www.tlccc.org Thomasville Cultural Center (Thomasville, GA) 229-226-0588,thomasvilleculturalcenter.com Thomasville Entertainment Foundation (Thomasville, GA), 229-226-7404, www.tefconcerts.com

Capital Culture Magazine

DIRECTORY Thomasville Road Academy of the Arts 422-7795, www.thomasvilleroad.org/academy.htm The Warehouse, 222-6188

Music

Apalachee Blues Society www.apalacheebluessociety.com The Artist Series 224-9934, www.theartistseries.com Barbershop Harmony Society 562-3104, www.capitalchordsmen.org Beethoven and Company 894-8700, www.beethovenandcompany.com The Beta Bar 425-2697, www.thebetabar.com Big Bend Community Orchestra 893-4567, www.bbcorch.org Boys’ Choir of Tallahassee 528-2403, www.boyschoirtlh.org Bradfordville Blues Club 906-0766, www.bradfordvilleblues.com Bradfordville Fine Arts Academy 893-0893, www.b-fbc.org Classical Guitar Society of Tallahassee 521-0700 Club Downunder 644-1096, clubdownunder.org FAMU Music Department 599-3334 Florida State Opera 644-5248, music.fsu.edu/opera.htm Floyd’s Music Store 222-3506, www.floydsmusicstore.com FSU College of Music 644-4774, music.fsu.edu Gordon’s String Music 386-7784 Home Music Educators 656-7613, www.homemusiceducators.com Jim’s Pianos 205-5467, www.jimspianos.com Mason’s School of Music 412-0102, www.masonsmusic.com The Moon 878-6900, www.moonevents.com Music Center 942-0626 MusicMasters 800-848-6158, www.musicm.com Music Xchange 681-7443, www.themusicxchange.com Musikgarten 668-2119, www.best-begin.com/ musikgartensignup.html Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park (Live Oak, FL) 386-364-1683, www.musicliveshere.com Stringfest 222-7467, www.stringfest.com Stubbs Music Center 893-8754, www.stubbs.org Tallahassee Bach Parley tallahasaseebachparley.org Tallahassee Chapter, Nashville Songwriters Association www.nashvillesongwriters.com Tallahassee Civic Chorale 878-2711, www.civicchorale.org Capital Culture Magazine

Tallahassee Community Chorus 668-5394, www.tcchorus.org Tallahassee Community College Jazz Band 567-6336 or 201-6070 Tallahassee Girls’ Choir of CHOICE 576-7501 Tallahassee Music Guild 877-4339 Tallahassee Pipe Band 576-0708, www.saintandrewtallahassee.org The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra 224-0461,www.tallahasseesymphony.org Tallahassee Symphony Youth Orchestras 224-9232,www.tallahasseesymphony.org Tallahassee Winds 668-7109, www.tallahasseewinds.org Tally Piano & Keyboard Studios 386-2425, www.tallypiano.com Tocamos 562-3639, www.tocamos.com Vinyl Fever 580-3480, www.vinylfever.com Voces Angelorum, 942-6075, www.voicesofangelstallahassee.org WFSU 487-3170, www.wfsu.org

Theatre

Bainbridge Little Theater (Bainbridge, GA) 229-246-834, www.bainbridgelittletheater.com Capital City Shakespeare in the Park 386-6476, [email protected] The Comedy Zone 575-4242, www.comedyzonetally.com Curious Echo Radio Theater 228-2473, www.curiousecho.org Dixie Theatre (Apalachicola, FL) 850-653-3200, www.dixietheatre.com Dysfunction Junction 728-9467, www.dj-improv.com FAMU Essential Theatre 599-3430, www.essentialtheatre.us Magic and Fun Costume Shop 224-6244 Mickee Faust Club 224-3089, www.mickeefaust.com Monticello Opera House (Monticello, FL) 997-4242, www. monticellofloridaoperahouse.com Off Street Players 907-5743, [email protected] Quincy Music Theatre (Quincy, FL) 875-9444, www.qmtonline.com The School of Theatre at Florida State 644-6500, theatre.fsu.edu Swamp Gravy (Colquitt, GA) 229-758-5450, www.swampgravy.com Tallahassee Little Theatre 224-4597, tallahasseelittletheatre.org Theatre A La Carte 385-6700, www.theatrealacarte.org Theatre TCC! 201-8608, theatre.tcc.fl.edu Young Actors Theatre 386-6602,www.youngactorstheatre.com

Visual Arts

1123@Midtown 562-8696 621 Gallery 224-6163, www.621gallery.com Almost Exclusive (850) 894-3925, www.almostexclusive.com Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts (Valdosta, GA), 229-247-2787, www.turnercenter.org Ars Magna @ The NHMFL 644-1933 Art Galleries at Tallahassee Community College 201-8713, www.tcc.fl.edu/dept/cohu/art/ artgallery.htm Artport Gallery 224-2500, www.cocanet.org Bali HI Trading Company 766-7175, balihi.us Blue Abaco Trading Company 325-2323, www.blueabaco.com Brush and Palette Studio 893-1960, brushandpalettestudio.com Capital City Carvers 562-8460, carvers.mytalweb.com Capitol Complex Galleries 245-6480, www.florida-arts.org City Hall Art Gallery 224-2500, www.cocanet.org Depot Agent Gallery 218-368-5924 Et Ceterocks Gallery www.et-ceterocks.com First Street Gallery (Havana, FL) 539-5220, www.firststreetartgallery.com Florida Society of Goldsmiths, NW Chapter www.fsgnw.com FSU Big Bend Contemporary Gallery www.bigbendcontemporary.com FSU International Center Art Gallery 645-4793, internationalcenter.fsu.edu FSU Museum of Fine Arts Artists’ League 644-1299, www.billhumphries.com/ artistsleaguehome.html FSU Museum of Fine Arts 644-1254, www.mofa.fsu.edu FSU Oglesby Gallery 644-3898, union.fsu.edu/artcenter Foster Tanner Fine Arts Gallery 599-3161 Gadsden Arts Center (Quincy, FL) 875-4866, www.gadsdenarts.com Glasshopper, 668-5007 www.glasshopperonline.com Glassworks by Susan 222-5095 Historically Florida: Florida’s History Shops 245-6396, www.floridashistoryshop.com Humidity Gallery 264-5810, [email protected] Images of Tallahassee 894-5596, www.russellgraceimages.com It’s A Jem Fine Art (Havana, FL) 539-0335, www.itsajem.com

(continued on page 20) www.morethanyouthought.com

Fall 2008 | 19

DIRECTORY Unless otherwise specified, all area codes are 850. Lafayette Park Arts & Crafts Center 891-3945, www.talgov.com/parks/ commcenter/lfartscrafts.cfm LeMoyne Center for the Visual Arts 222-8800, www.lemoyne.org Light N Up Artist Cooperative (Havana, FL) 539-0006, lightnupartcoop.com M Gallery 531-9925, [email protected] The Mary Brogan Museum of Art & Science 513-0700, www.thebrogan.org Picture Frames Unlimited 422-0088 Oglesby Union Art Center 644-4737, union.fsu.edu/artcenter Quilters Unlimited www.quilttallahassee.com Quincie’s Art Jewelry 222-8411, www.quinciehamby.com Railroad Square Art Park 224-1308,www.railroadsquare.com Ribits Enchanted Cottage 671-5859, ribitsenchantedcottage.com Sally Rude Antiques and Fine Art Gallery 222-4020, www.trocadero.com/mctc Signature Art Gallery 297-2422, www.signatureartgallery.com Simply Artistic, Inc. 402-0073, www.SimplyArtistic.net South of Soho Co-op Gallery www.southofsohogallery.com Southern Scenes Gallery & Frame 504-0555, www.southernscenesgallery.com Swamp Buddha Sumi-e 386-5041, [email protected] Tallahassee Polymer Clay Art Guild 656-2887, www.polymerclayart.org Tallahassee Senior Center for the Arts 891-4000, www.talgov.com Tallahassee Watercolor Society 385-9517, www.tfn.net/Watercolor Talleon Independent Artists 386-7176, www.tfn.net/talleon Ten Thousand Villages 906-9010, www.villagesoftallahassee.org Textures Handmade Market 329-6569, www.textureshandmademarket.com Turtle Island Trading Post 425-2490, turtleislandtradingpost.com Uniquely Yours 878-7111 Utrecht Art Supplies 877-0321, www.utrecht.com Visitors Center Gift Shop & Gallery 413-9200, www.seetallahassee.com Wild Women Art Gallery 224-1308, [email protected]

Vol. 3

Fall 2008

Issue 1

Official Publication of the

Publisher Editor Creative Director Editorial Assistant

Peggy Brady Randi Goldstein Atwood Tony Archer Lorem Ipsum Design Studio Clint Riley

Capital Culture Magazine is published quarterly by the Council on Culture & Arts with support from the Leon County Tourist Development Council. Capital Culture Magazine is distributed free of charge to visitors to and residents of Florida’s Big Bend Area. Reproduction of Capital Culture Magazine in whole or in part is permitted only with written permission from the Council on Culture & Arts. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Editorial, art, and photography submissions to Capital Culture Magazine are considered. Writer’s guidelines are available at www.cocanet.org. However, the publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts or art. Capital Culture Magazine reserves the right to publish any letters to the editor. Although COCA makes every effort to publish accurate information, we make no guarantee as to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information in this magazine. All rights reserved. Capital Culture Magazine is available in large print upon request. This publication is available in electronic format at COCA’s website at www.cocanet.org. The opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Council on Culture & Arts, or Capital Culture Magazine’s sponsors or advertisers. Subscriptions to Capital Culture Magazine are available by joining the Council on Culture & Arts. Please visit www.cocanet.org/about/join.html to download an application or call (850) 224-2500.

Copyright © 2008 Council on Culture & Arts

As the local arts agency for Tallahassee and Leon County, the Council on Culture & Arts works on behalf of the community to support the area’s diverse range of cultural events and traditions. Through innovative partnerships with community and educational groups, COCA seeks to enrich and improve the lives of citizens and visitors alike. Our professional staff and board of directors serve as a community resource to advocate for and support arts and culture in Florida’s Capital Area. COCA members include non-profit and commercial galleries, museums, theaters, music groups, dance companies, festivals, historic sites, film and video companies, educational organizations, and individual artists, as well as businesses and individuals interested in supporting local cultural activities. Council on Culture & Arts Staff Executive Director Peggy Brady Randi Goldstein Atwood Leslie Puckett Clint Riley Amanda Karioth Thompson Holly Thompson Council on Culture & Arts Board of Directors Chair Anne Mackenzie Vice Chair Ken Winker Treasurer/ Secretary Kay Stephenson Past Chair Michael H. Sheridan Exec. Comm. Margo H. Bindhardt Member At-Large Valliere Richard Auzenne Mickey Brady Alfredo A. Cruz Lydia A. McKinley-Floyd Longineu Parsons Mark Ravenscraft Susan Stratton Mike Vasilinda Johanna Williams Ex-officios John Marks, Mayor Bob Rackleff, County Commission Marge Banocy-Payne, TCC Valencia E. Matthews, FAMU Donna H. McHugh, FSU Dick Fallon, Cultural Ambassador

816 S. ML King Jr. Boulevard Tallahassee, FL 32301 (850) 224-2500 office (850) 224-2515 fax [email protected] www.cocanet.org

A COCA publication sponsored in part by the City ofTallahassee, Leon County, the State of Florida, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

20 | Fall 2008

www.morethanyouthought.com

Capital Culture Magazine

PROFILES IN THE ARTS

W

hen a performer can sing, dance, and act, he’s called a “triple threat.” Designer Gerry Leahy is a different kind of triple threat. He designs not only scenery, but lighting and costumes, and not just for theatre – also for opera, dance, film, and television. It’s rare to find someone brave enough to try his hand at such varied tasks, and rarer still to find someone so skilled at all of them. Gerry’s work has graced venues in America’s regional and educational theatres as well as in London, Taiwan, Greece, and Holland. He is also occasionally recruited to craft elements for civic and diplomatic events (including the State Visit of Queen Elizabeth to Philadelphia at the Bicentennial). A true visual artist as well as a designer, his renderings (preliminary drawings of the sets and costumes) evoke strong moods. The figures on his pages have emotion and depth, and give a real sense of how the stage will eventually look. His renderings have been exhibited in NY, London, San Francisco, Philadelphia, and Taipei. The practical nature of theatre demands that designs be functional as well as beautiful: the scenery has to move smoothly and fit backstage; the costumes need to be comfortable enough for the dancers to move in; the lighting has to set the mood and illuminate the action without blinding the performers. And this, according to the people who work with him, is Gerry’s true gift – making it all happen without ever losing sight of the artistry. Though he recently retired from teaching at the School of Theatre at FSU, Gerry is far from inactive. He continues to design for local, regional, and international stages, and maintains his commitment to education by mentoring former students tackling new design challenges.

Gerry LEAHY

Capital Culture’s profiled artists are selected from the many visual, performing, literary, and media artists featured on COCA’s online Artist Directory. Listings in the Artist Directory are free, with enhanced listings available for COCA members. Visit the Directory online at www.cocanet.org.

March/April 2007 Priceless

May/June 2007 Priceless

Summer 2006 Free

Tallahassee Ballet’s production of Alice in

Adventures in the Arts:

ere Art is Everywh ing Out?

Wonderland

Local Author Rhett DeVane Learns to Belly Dance

Are You Miss

Conversations with writer/performer/activist

Winter 2007 Priceless

Reveals His

Valerie Goodwin Meets Architecture Quilting at FAMU

s rn Tu

The Reviews Are In!

s Two Tallahassee Album Miss! You Can’t Afford to

Master the Art of

Council on Culture & Arts’

ther . .O US PL

ee st-S Mu

Shopping (by Shopping for Art!) pg. 4

Tallahassee Democr at’s

Terry Galloway

stian Mark Mu Creative Side

y Ma

&

! 10

ents Ev ne Ju

Spring 2006 Free

Profiles in the Arts:

John Lytle Wilson

Put a Spring in Yo r Step As the warm weather returns, the ar t scene heats up in Florida’s cultural capital

the Trail On What Is There Art of To Do In (for Fearless Agers)

Tallahassee?

MORE THAN YOU 3) New Year, New Name (page THOUGHT! Your FESTIVALS Guide Star 98’s to Arts & Steve Christian Goes WormCulture in Gruntin’ Florida’s PLUS...

Big Bend

More! Performing gs...And MUCHArts Gallery Listin Museums tre, Dance, Film, PLUS...Opera, Thea Art Galleries Shopping

...And MUCH More

Explore Art: Toddler Style

Fall 2006 Priceless

Gerald Ensley Plays Tourist in Tallahassee Susan Gage Explores

Alternative Theatre

Chil dren Res our ’s ces

PLUS...

Visual Arts, Kids Activities, Festivals & Annu al Events

...And MUCH More

Your Guide to Arts & Culture in Florida’s

Big Bend

the

ART

of

PLAY PLUS...

Visual & Perf orming Art s, Arts Shoppin g, Festivals & Annual Eve nts ...And

...And MUCH More

Your Guide to Arts & Culture in Florida’s

Your Guide to Arts & Culture in Florida’s

Big Bend

Big Bend

ht .com g u o h t u o y n moretha Tallahassee’s premiere interactive community calendar!