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Welcome to
AnythingArtsNewlsetter.com, a bi-monthly (2x a
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Featured Artist
Janet Combs

Our Featured Artist this issue is someone that we just
met at “Laughs For A Cause” on July 25th. We were
introduced to
Janet Combs by Su Byron, who did an
outstanding job with PR for the event. Janet is a
professional photographer and helped out the cause by
shooting a ton of photos for us. (click here to see
photos from the event)
As we often do for our Featured Artist spotlight, we
sent Janet an email with a few questions. Sometimes we
take the answers and write something new from it,
something original that takes a little time and seems
like we have more writing talent than we do. Other times
we wait until the last minute and then take the lazy way
out by doing a cut and paste and running the answers as
if it were an original story. Today is one of those
“take the easy way out because we procrastinated so long
that now too many fires are burning at once” days. So,
enjoy reading about Janet Combs, and be sure to click
the links to see her work.
Where are you from? Born in Washington,
DC grew up in DC, MD, NY, NJ - we moved a bit!
When did you move to Sarasota? June
2006, but have been coming to Sarasota twice a year to
visit family since age 14.
Years as a pro photographer? Hired at
age 14 for my "talent" - but I also had a Minolta SRT
202 which was one of the nicer cameras in our small
town. I think they were really after my knowledge of
working the 35mm and how to roll film! . One of my
fondest memories is my Dad taking me into New York City
to buy equipment from 47th Street Photo - and I will
never part with my antiquated darkroom equipment! I have
been shooting since then, concentrating on beach
portraits and events. My sister was an equestrian, and I
used to shoot and sell photos of the competitors.
What did you do prior, if anything?
Began working in 1981 in the Pharmaceutical Industry as
a data specialist in the pre-clinical trial arena, then
as a freelance graphic artist. I started my own note
card and postcard design company,
www.kaliflowers.com,
when I left Johnson and Johnson in 1998 to have my first
baby. I do a lot of postcard work; I have my client's
photographs printed as holiday postcards or invitations
- no envelope needed. We save trees and postage! My Kaliflowers work ties right in with my photography work
- www.janetcombsphotography.com as people like having
their photos turned into stationery and then sending it
to their friends and family.
Education? I studied Photography at the
University of Miami.
Hobbies? Enjoy kayaking, sailboat
racing, SCUBA diving, surfing, and I am a HOSPICE
volunteer.
Family? I am married to Phil Karcher,
who is a Physicist. An awesome photographer with a keen
eye for detail, he created, designed and manages
www.eCloudMedia.com, a photo-sharing website which also
features the unique ability to send your own photos
electronically as postcards. Kali is 11, Charlie is 9
and both are have a sharp eye and love experimenting
with my cameras - we easily have the most photographed
puppy in the world!.
Anything you want to share? I do a lot
of volunteer photography work with Tatum Ridge
Elementary, Sarasota Film Festival and for the past 3
years have been the Newsletter Editor for the Sarasota
Newcomer's Club. I enjoy lending my time and talents to
the community, and firmly believe that "it takes a
village". I am just beginning my pursuit of a dual
Certificate in Photography and Digital Graphics at
Ringling College. Having grown up in the age of
Kodachrome, I found myself ten years ago in a digital
world without formal training. I am constantly striving
to enhance my skill set, which is an easy accomplishment
living here in arts-oriented Sarasota. |
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[ we asked. you answered. ]
In our last issue we asked readers to comment on the “Unconditional
Surrender” statue that so much fuss is being made over. A few dozen people
made comments and we have posted all that came with names attached.
Click here to read what others are saying and to even add your own
comment. Thanks for sharing! |
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Now
[ dangerous women ]
Throughout time, images of women have been the cornerstone of art. Women of
all descriptions, from the angelic to the vicious, have been featured in
masterworks from all over the world. Explore the power of the female
mystique in this special exhibition organized by
The John and Mable Ringling
Museum of Art from the Museum’s permanent collection. See this exhibition
during regular Museum hours, 10:00 – 5:30 pm. This exhibition is included
with regular Museum admission. Call 941.358.3180 for advance tickets and
don’t forget that Monday is get in free day! |
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Through August 9
[ surely shirley ]
Florida Studio Theatre
presents “Shirley Valentine,”
by Willy Russell. The plot goes like this: “An ordinary housewife sets out
on an extraordinary adventure when her best friend wins an all- expenses
paid vacation to Greece, Shirley Valentine leaves behind the confines of her
kitchen, and marriage, for a spontaneous trip of self-discovery.” Tickets on
sale now for this Olivier Award- winning play for Best Comedy. For more
information please contact Florida Studio Theatre at 941-366-9000. (Shows
dates and times vary, check the FST Calendar or
call the box office for specifics.)
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Sundays
[ big band theory ]
Love big band music? Look no further than Sarasota’s own WSLR 96.5 LPFM on
Sundays from 11:00 - 1:00 pm. Not only will you hear all of the greats like
Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey and Count Basie, you’ll hear the singers like
Frank, Ella, Mel and Peggy. Host Doug Miles will also have special guests
like Dick Hyman, Steve Lawrence, Andy Williams and more. Listen in the car
or on your computer WSLR.org.
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July 30 – August 8
[ snap, snap, pirouette, snap ]
Venice Theatre Summer Stock ’09 presents West Side Story. As VT says, “The
world’s greatest love story takes to the streets in this landmark Broadway
musical that is one of theatre’s finest accomplishments. Shakespeare's Romeo
and Juliet is transported to modern-day New York City, as two young
idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the
“American” Jets and the “Puerto Rican” Sharks. Their struggle to survive in
a world of hate, violence and prejudice is one of the most innovative,
heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time.” Call 941-488-1115. |
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Opening August 6
[ fat pig ]
No, it’s not the next statue coming to the bayfront!
The Banyan Theater
presents playwright Neil LaBute’s “Fat Pig” through August 23 at the FSU
Center for Performing Arts’ Cook Theatre. Directed by Greg Leaming, “Fat
Pig” is described as follows: “Life is good for Tom. He’s successful at
work, has some great friends, and a fantastic new girlfriend who is big and
beautiful. He loves her, and that’s what counts. Isn’t it? When Tom’s office
buddies and ex-girlfriend find out that he is seeing a “plus size” woman
it’s not long before the whispers and mockery turn to relationship sabotage,
leading Tom to question if size does matter after all. Neil LaBute’s hit
comedy (don’t let the title fool you) is a biting story of love and
friendship, and a profound examination of the cultural influences that
define “attractive” in our society.” Some performances are followed by an
audience/cast talk-back, see the website for specifics. Also, “Old
Wicked” runs through August 2, in case you haven’t seen it yet. |
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August 7
[ music on main ]
Experience the dance music of the 70’s and 80’s with “Sheri and The Vision”
at Music on Main;
Main Street in downtown Lakewood Ranch. There is no cost
and the fun is from 6:00 - 9:00 pm.
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August 7
[ s/art/q event ]
S/ART/Q presents a live screen-printing
event from 5:30 – 10:30 pm at The Hub (1421 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota).
S/ART/Q is a group of artists that joined together to promote the arts and
local artists. On Friday, they will have original pieces displayed and for
just $5 visitors can have the artwork printed on to any piece of clothing or
fabric. Come and see how it’s all done, learn what’s happening in the local
arts scene and meet some very passionate and talented people. |
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August 7
[ first friday ]
Enjoy “A Midsummer Night’s
Stroll” in downtown Sarasota on Main and Palm as the galleries and shops
stay open late and invite you in with wine and music. Official hours are
6:00 – 9:00 pm, but go early if you want.
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August 7 & 8
[ special performance ]
If you are looking for something different, entertaining and sure to put a
smile on your face, look no further. Kaleidoscope Musical Theatre presents
“Take a Bite (Oh Applesauce)” for two special performances at the Asolo
Repertory Theatre at 7:00 pm. Written by adults with developmental
disabilities, this production is pure joy and opens yours eyes and hearts to
what is possible when art meets purpose. Call the Asolo box office at
941-351-8000
for tickets and information. |
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August 7 & 8
[ first weekend ]
Bradenton’s Village of
the Arts invites all to come on down (or up) for ArtsWalk on the first
weekend of every month; Friday night from 6:00 – 9:30 pm and Saturday from
11:00 - 4:00 pm. Yeah, it’s hot out, but there are also hot deals to be had
in the Village. |
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August 12 – 24
[ what the... ]
Dale Jones is appearing at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre for two weeks of
non-stop whacky physical comedy. Call 941-925-3869
for tickets and
information.
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August 13
[ think + drink ]
The South Florida Museum’s “think + drink” (cinema) presents “Joni Mitchell:
Woman of Heart and Mind” (90 minutes). “Explore the history of one of the
most influential female musicians of the Twentieth Century in this moving
and enlightening portrait. The film includes archival footage, performance
material, and interviews with the artist, as well as her friends and family
including Graham Nash, James Taylor, David Crosby and Herbie Hancock.
Featured artist: Mindy Simmons will perform, live, during the happy hour at
6:00 pm, the screening starts at 7:00 pm $8 general admission, $6
students/seniors, $5 museum members. Beer, wine, snacks, coffee, baked goods
for sale. * please note, theater may be chilly, plan accordingly.
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August 16
[ church concert ]
The Scarano Family of Bradenton will perform at
Faith Lutheran Church of
Sarasota, during the morning 10 am service. Along with their parents, Joseph
and Peachie Scarano, the four Scarano children, Sophia, Giselle, Giovanni,
and Giordano, will perform Adagio by Carl M. von Weber; Cantique de Jean
Racine by Gabriel Faure; and Sonata No. 2 by Antonio Vivaldi. The concert is
free and the public is warmly invited. Faith Lutheran Church is located at
7750 Beneva Road in Sarasota. For
more information call 941.924.4664. |
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August 17
[ special film screening ]
“The Tobacco Club” is a film about students spending time together in
detention for smoking. As they share their stories with a trusted teacher, a
secret is revealed that could destroy the group’s fragile bond. It was
produced by the Sarasota County Health Department and Planned Parenthood of
Southwest and Central Florida and performed by actors from
The SOURCE
Theatre. The fifty-five minute film was written and directed by KT Curran
and shot and edited by Brad Bryan. It is truly a local collaboration. The
free screening takes place at 7:00 p.m. at the Planned Parenthood building
on Central Avenue in downtown Sarasota. Space is very limited and RSVP is
required to 941-365-3913 x 1021.
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August 17
[ monday night movies ]
In 1981, a 19-year-old unknown graffiti writer took the New York art world
by surprise, the rest is art history. The story of the meteoric rise of
youthful artist Jean-Michel Basquiat is told in the film bearing his name: “Basquiat."
The film starts at 7:00 pm and costs $7. Call the
Historic Asolo
Theater Box office 941-360-7399, or
on-line for more
information. |
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August 17 & 24
[ die, mommie, die ]
The Suncoast AIDS Theatre Project presents “Summer Nights of Alternative
Theatre” at the American Stage Theatre (163 Third Street North, downtown,
St. Pete).
Charles Busch's newly revised comedy, “DIE, MOMMIE, DIE” is a comic
melodrama that evokes the 1960's movie thrillers that featured such aging
cinematic icons as Bette Davis, Joan Crawford and Lana Turner. Tickets are
“Pay What You Can”. A cash bar will be available. To order tickets call the
American Stage Box Office at (727) 823-PLAY. Doors open at 6:30 with a
curtain time of 7:30. For further information contact the Artistic Director
of the Suncoast AIDS Theatre Project, Garry Breul at 941-758-6399.
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August 20
[ cocktails ]
Live entertainment on the
Cą d’Zan Terrace (at Ringling’s mansion at the
museum) by The Arch from 6:00 – 9:00 pm. There is a $5 cover charge, cash bar,
and food vendors. Free parking at FSU/Asolo Center for Performing Arts. No
advance reservations required. Call 941-359-5700 for additional information. |
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August 21
[ outdoor movie ]
Reels at Rossi Park
continues with Nicolas Cage starring in the action flick “National
Treasure.” The Reels at Rossi Park event is free and the films begin at
sunset. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy family entertainment. Rossi Park
is located in Bradenton on 3rd Ave. W. Between 9th St. W. and U.S. 301.
Visit the website for details.
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[ voice and speech training ]
John Burr offers voiceover and speech training at his new studio in
Sarasota. And this year, he's added a new program for kids from 14 to 18,
called the Young Talent Program. Whatever your needs, with his many years of
experience, John can help you develop into a world-class voiceover talent or
public speaker. Check
out John's website for the details. |
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August 26, 27 & 28
[ youth opera classes ]
Sarasota Youth Opera is now accepting enrollment applications for the
2009-10 season. Young people age 8 and up may enroll and all who apply are
accepted; regardless of skill level and then provided vocal and acting
training. The Youth Opera performs throughout the community and singers are
eligible to audition for the Winter Opera Festival. Some scholarships are
available. Placement classes are on August 26 - 28. Call 941-366-8450 x221 for
details.
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Deadline September 28
[ call to artists ]
The City of Sarasota is looking for artists to create 16” x 16” original
sidewalk inlays for the downtown Sarasota Historic District. Selected
artists will be paid $250!
Visit the website for details and application.
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August 22
[ color class- painting ]
Ron Sanders, nationally award winning artist, teacher and author of the
book “Color
Mixing / Color Matching,” will lead a one-day workshop (9:30 – 4:00 pm)
at Art Center Sarasota. This class will focus on properly seeing and
analyzing color, understanding how color works in mixtures, and what path to
take to quickly mix the proper color relative to its Hue, Temperature,
Value, and Chroma. Not only will this understanding speed up your painting
and give you more confidence as a painter, but will also add more life to
your painted works. The class will begin with a color lecture and paint
mixing exercise and progress to applying our knowledge to painting a still
life setup under temperature controlled lighting followed by group critique
and discussion. All wet media are welcome.
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Auditions
[ pick me, no me ]Be sure to check the audition pages of local
theaters to make sure you don’t miss anything (click the theater name):
Florida Studio Theatre
•
The Players Theatre of Sarasota
•
Manatee Players
• The
Golden Apple
•
Island Players •
Asolo Repertory Theatre •
Venice Theatre •
Lemon Bay Playhouse |

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Information about show times, places and dates is assumed accurate but
not guaranteed. Please contact the presenting organization directly, by the
link or phone number provided, to confirm information. 
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