Black History Month event: HOPE Photovoice Initiative On View

See Tampa Bay through a new lens at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts’ HOPE Photovoice Initiative, which is on view from February 20 to March 24 at the FMoPA in the Ybor Kress Building. The powerful exhibition showcases the stories and challenges faced by the University Area community. Witness the raw beauty and struggles of everyday life in Tampa with stunning images that tackle issues like employment, affordable housing and community engagement. 

“These evocative images unveil the University Area Community’s authentic stories, aiming to ignite awareness and foster positive change in policies and perceptions,” a description on the exhibition website says. Experience the power of photography and discover what makes this community resilient, hopeful and inspiring.

Black History Month event: Clearwater Sea-Blues Festival

Get your blues on and soak up the sun at the Clearwater Sea-Blues Festival on February 23, 24 and 25, where national blues artists like Jontavious Willis and DK Harrell perform smooth tunes. Kick off your Friday night with hits by Makattack Music and Reverend Raven, let loose with Walter Trout and J & The Causeways on Saturday and then head to Coachman Park on Sunday to jam out to Nick Moss, Albert Castiglia and more.

Fuel your soul with seafood, craft brews and local handcrafted finds at the festival’s market. VIP tickets and reserved seating start at $20, with proceeds going to the Clearwater-based charity, Homeless Empowerment Program.

Black History Month event: Carmada en Ybor

Car lovers, buckle up for Carmada en Ybor, where art cars cruise in Ybor City. Get up close and personal with cars like you’ve never seen before as you experience Ybor’s flourishing art scene at art galleries and artist studios along Seventh Avenue from 12 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, February 3. Join NOMAD Rolling Studio for free activities while listening to DJ Donnie Luv spinning the soundtrack to your afternoon. 

“Carmada is rolling into Ybor City to highlight the artistic resurgence that is taking

Carmada en Ybor celebrates 10 years of the Carmada Art Car Showcase and the revitalization of the arts in Ybor City on Saturday, February 3rd.

 place,” says Silver Meteor Gallery Owner Michael Murphy. “In addition to viewing creatively decorated cars, NOMAD Art Bus and the HCC Art Club will have art activities for visitors to enjoy. The Art Galleries and Artists' Studios in the Kress Collective will be open for art aficionados to explore. You can get a sneak peek of Marcolina's Fine Art Gallery's first-anniversary show, which is opening that night. Check out the unique and macabre art in Dysfunctional Grace's new space above Big Easy Bar. Visit Drip Ybor and the recently relocated Florida Museum of Photographic Art to round out your artistic excursion.” 

This event is free and for all ages, so bring the whole crew for a one-of-a-kind afternoon of art, cars and community.

Black History Month event: February ArtWalk: African Americans & the Arts Celebrating Black History Month

Celebrate Black History Month as you explore “African Americans & the Arts," an exhibit showcasing the talents of Creative Clay's member artists during February's St. Pete Second Saturday ArtWalk on February 10. Meet the artists and learn about their artistic journeys as you immerse yourself in the power of community. Get your caricature drawn by resident artists while listening to soulful tunes by Emily Turnage.

Black History Month event: Resilience & Revolution - An Immersion Of Black Americana

Visit the Woodson African American Museum of Florida anytime during Black History Month to experience the free exhibition Resilience & Revolution: An Immersion Of Black Americana. Broaden your understanding of African American history, triumphs and culture as you stroll through a full sensory experience of art, music and interactive displays. The exhibit is free to experience and donations are also welcome.