<p><br /></p>http://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/atom.aspxCommunity Server2008-04-25T09:35:00Zhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2009/11/09/opera-naples.aspx2009-11-09T17:52:00Z2009-11-09T17:52:00Z<p><strong>Writer/Producer</strong>: Janina Birtolo</p> <p>Opera is an elegant art form but one that requires some familiarity. Opera Naples, the first regional professional opera company in Southwest Florida, is determined to provide that familiarity – and to win new fans in the process. Find how this fledgling group is spreading the joy of opera throughout the community. </p> <p><br /><strong>Resources</strong>:</p> <p><br />Opera Naples: <a href="http://www.operanaples.com/">www.OperaNaples.com</a> or 1-800-771-1041<br />Naples Opera Society: <a href="http://www.naplesoperasociety.org/">www.naplesoperasociety.org</a> or 239-598-6110<br />The Philharmonic Center for the Arts: <a href="http://www.thephil.org/">www.thephil.org</a> or (239) 597-1900 <br />Palm Beach Opera: <a href="http://www.pbopera.org/">www.pbopera.org</a> or (561) 833-7888 <br />Orlando Opera: <a href="http://www.orlandoopera.org/">www.orlandoopera.org</a> or (407) 426-1700 <br />Florida Grand Opera, Miami: <a href="http://www.fgo.org/">www.fgo.org</a> or (305) 250-5277<br />Miami Lyric Opera: <a href="http://www.miamilyricopera.org/">www.miamilyricopera.org</a> <br /></p><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=6285" width="1" height="1">BarbaraLhttp://wgcu.org/members/BarbaraL.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2009/05/15/bach-ensemble.aspx2009-05-15T14:04:00Z2009-05-15T14:04:00Z<p><strong>Writer/Producer:</strong> Janina Birtolo</p> <p>Listening to their renditions of choral music by Bach and other Baroque composers, you’d never guess that the members of The Bach Ensemble were all volunteers. Find out how this group of talented amateurs creates such beautiful music. </p> <p><br /><strong>Resources:<br /></strong>The Bach Ensemble: <a href="http://www.thebachensemble.org/">www.thebachensemble.org</a> or (239) 732-1055<br />The Philharmonic Center Adult &amp; Youth Chorales: <a href="http://www.thephil.org/">www.thephil.org</a> or (239) 592-5398 <br />New Horizons Band: Eric Ernst, <a href="mailto:ericekk@comcast.net">ericekk@comcast.net</a> or (239) 417-5499 or Bernie Ernst, <a href="mailto:oldernst@aol.com">oldernst@aol.com</a> or (239) 293-7629<br />Naples Concert Band: <a href="http://www.naplesconcertband.org/">www.naplesconcertband.org</a><br />Paradise Coastmen Barbershop Chorus: <a href="http://www.naplesbarbershopchorus.org/">www.naplesbarbershopchorus.org</a> </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=5673" width="1" height="1">BarbaraLhttp://wgcu.org/members/BarbaraL.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2009/05/01/bluegrass-community.aspx2009-05-01T16:18:00Z2009-05-01T16:18:00Z<P mce_keep="true"><STRONG>Writer/Producer:</STRONG> Shawn Holiday</P> <P mce_keep="true">There is a kind music that comes from the heart, where the best stage is a porch or the shade of a tree. (NAT) Bluegrass music has been kept alive for generations, bringing family and friends together, sometimes just to listen, but more often to join right in. Check out Southwest Florida's Bluegrass scene.</P> <P mce_keep="true"><A href="http://www.southwestfloridabluegrass.org/">http://www.southwestfloridabluegrass.org/</A></P> <P mce_keep="true">&nbsp;</P><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=5609" width="1" height="1">BarbaraLhttp://wgcu.org/members/BarbaraL.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2009/05/01/new-horizons-band.aspx2009-05-01T16:13:00Z2009-05-01T16:13:00Z<P mce_keep="true"><STRONG>Writer/Producer</STRONG>: Janina Birtolo</P> <P mce_keep="true">Learning to play an instrument isn’t easy at any age. But a determined group of retirees is pursuing the music of their youthful dreams through membership in the New Horizons Band at Imperial Wilderness. </P> <P mce_keep="true"><STRONG>Resources</STRONG>:</P> <P mce_keep="true">New Horizons Band: <A href="http://www.newhorizonsmusic.org/">www.newhorizonsmusic.org</A> or (239) 293-7629<BR>Naples Concert Band: <A href="http://www.naplesconcertband.org/">www.naplesconcertband.org</A><BR>Philharmonic Center Chorale: <A href="http://www.thephil.org/">www.thephil.org</A> or (239) 254-2642 or (239) 592-5398 </P> <P mce_keep="true">&nbsp;</P><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=5608" width="1" height="1">BarbaraLhttp://wgcu.org/members/BarbaraL.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2009/04/21/junior-duck-stamp-contest.aspx2009-04-21T19:34:00Z2009-04-21T19:34:00Z<p>&nbsp;</p><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=5555" width="1" height="1">BarbaraLhttp://wgcu.org/members/BarbaraL.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2009/04/21/the-art-of-sandsculpting.aspx2009-04-21T19:32:00Z2009-04-21T19:32:00Z<p>&nbsp;</p><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=5554" width="1" height="1">BarbaraLhttp://wgcu.org/members/BarbaraL.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2009/01/06/artcrafters.aspx2009-01-06T15:53:00Z2009-01-06T15:53:00Z<P mce_keep="true"><STRONG>Writer/Producer:</STRONG> Janina Birtolo</P> <P mce_keep="true">The Naples Artcrafters may be one of the most welcoming art organizations in town. Its members include painters, potters, jewelers – just about every artistic or craft discipline imaginable. Even those without an art or craft are welcome to join the ranks and help put on the group’s monthly outdoor shows. </P> <P mce_keep="true"><STRONG>Resources:<BR></STRONG>Naples Artcrafters: <A href="http://www.naplesartcrafters.com/" mce_href="http://www.naplesartcrafters.com/">www.naplesartcrafters.com</A> <BR>Naples Art Association: <A href="http://www.naplesartcenter.org/" mce_href="http://www.naplesartcenter.org/">www.naplesartcenter.org</A><BR>Art League of Marco Island: <A href="http://www.marcoislandart.org/" mce_href="http://www.marcoislandart.org/">www.marcoislandart.org</A><BR>Seagrape Gallery, Charlotte County: <A href="http://www.seagrapegallery.com/" mce_href="http://www.seagrapegallery.com/">www.seagrapegallery.com</A><BR>Art League of Bonita Springs: <A href="http://www.artcenterbonita.org/" mce_href="http://www.artcenterbonita.org/">www.artcenterbonita.org</A><BR>Lee County Alliance for the Arts: <A href="http://www.artinlee.org/" mce_href="http://www.artinlee.org/">www.artinlee.org</A></P> <P mce_keep="true">&nbsp;</P> <P mce_keep="true">&nbsp;</P><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=5132" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://wgcu.org/members/admin.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2009/01/06/nature-art.aspx2009-01-06T15:39:00Z2009-01-06T15:39:00Z<p><strong>Writer/Producer:</strong> Kristy Vaughn</p> <p>Looking for an idea on your next art project?&nbsp; Step outside.&nbsp; A backyard, a beach, or a walk along a nature path can be the muse behind your next master piece.&nbsp; Meet three regional artists who find a creative outlet through found objects in nature. Get inspired by these artists’ use of driftwood, tree trimmings, and gourds to create sculptural art.&nbsp; Watch as metal is added to driftwood to make household décor, a palm tree limb transforms into a fish, and a gourd gets painted and engraved into a vase.&nbsp; </p> <p><strong>Resources:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.juliasarts.com/gallery.htm">http://www.juliasarts.com/gallery.htm</a><br />Julia’s Arts Gallery:&nbsp; A Gallery with an Eclectic Selection of Local Artists&#39; Works</p> <p><a href="http://steelstyle.com/">http://steelstyle.com/</a><br />Artist, James Ferrari’s official site</p> <p><a href="http://www.artworkbymary.com/">http://www.artworkbymary.com/</a>&nbsp;<br />Artist, Mary Widmer’s official site</p> <p>&nbsp;</p><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=5131" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://wgcu.org/members/admin.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2009/01/06/clyde-butcher-swamp-walk.aspx2009-01-06T15:33:00Z2009-01-06T15:33:00Z<p><strong>Writer/Producer:</strong> Janina Birtolo</p> <p>Landscape photographer Clyde Butcher is well known for his compelling black and white photos of the Everglades and other natural areas. Now he’s taking others into the environment that inspires him in hopes of prompting an artful appreciation of nature. </p> <p><strong>Resources</strong>:<br />Dragonfly Expeditions: <a href="http://www.dragonflyexpeditions.com/">www.dragonflyexpeditions.com</a><br />Florida Trail Association: <a href="http://www.floridatrail.org/">www.floridatrail.org</a><br />Friends of the Big Cypress: <a href="http://www.friendsofbigcypress.org/">www.friendsofbigcypress.org</a><br />Friends of Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve: <a href="http://www.friendsoffakahatchee.org/">www.friendsoffakahatchee.org</a><br />Friends of the Everglades: <a href="http://www.everglades.org/">www.everglades.org</a><br />Eco-Quest Nature Tours: ww.ecoquestnaturetours.com</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><br />&nbsp;</p><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=5130" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://wgcu.org/members/admin.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2008/10/30/arts-kids-theater-audio-live.aspx2008-10-30T17:59:00Z2008-10-30T17:59:00Z<p><br /><br />Join host Jim McLaughlin for a look at local kids’ theater opportunities. Whether they’re aspiring stars, or just looking for another way to explore their own imaginations, the theater is a great place kids to release their abundant energy, as well as learn how to commit to something bigger than themselves, and work others.</p><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=260" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://wgcu.org/members/admin.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2008/10/27/arts-docent-opportunities.aspx2008-10-27T19:17:00Z2008-10-27T19:17:00Z<p><strong>Writer/Producer</strong>: Janina Birtolo</p> <p>Ordinary people with a love of art and history are sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm by volunteering as docents at local museums. Find out how they do it – and how you can get involved. </p> <p><br /><strong>Resources</strong>:</p> <p>Naples Historical Society &amp; Palm Cottage: <a href="http://www.napleshistoricalsociety.org/">www.napleshistoricalsociety.org</a><br />Philharmonic Center for the Arts &amp; Naples Museum of Art: <a href="http://www.thephil.org/">www.thephil.org</a><br />Southwest Florida Historical Museum: <a href="http://www.cityftmyers.com/museum/index.html">www.cityftmyers.com/museum/index.html</a><br />Sidney &amp; Berne Davis Art Center, Fort Myers: <a href="http://www.fl-arts.org/">www.fl-arts.org</a><br />Collier County Museums: <a href="http://www.colliermuseum.com/">www.colliermuseum.com</a> </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=259" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://wgcu.org/members/admin.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2008/10/27/arts-art-nights.aspx2008-10-27T19:13:00Z2008-10-27T19:13:00Z<p><strong>Writer/Producer</strong>: Janina Birtolo</p> <p>In Naples, monthly art nights and gallery walks are offering the opportunity to socialize, enjoy new works by local and international artists and meet their creators, in a manner reminiscent of a progressive dinner. Find out how to get involved in this enjoyable scene. </p> <p><br /><strong>Resources</strong>:</p> <p>Phil Fisher Gallery, Naples: <a href="http://www.philfishergallery.com/">www.philfishergallery.com</a> <br />Dennison-Moran Gallery, Naples: <a href="http://www.dennisonmorangallery.com/">www.dennisonmorangallery.com</a> <br />Richard Rosen, Rosen Art Studios, Naples: <a href="http://www.rosenraku.com/">www.rosenraku.com</a><br />Sweet Art Gallery, Naples: <a href="http://www.thesweetartgallery.com/">www.thesweetartgallery.com</a><br />Longstreth-Goldberg Art, Naples: <a href="http://www.plgart.com/">www.plgart.com</a> <br />Naples Art Association: <a href="http://www.naplesartcenter.org/">www.naplesartcenter.org</a><br />Art League of Marco Island: <a href="http://www.marcoislandart.org/">www.marcoislandart.org</a><br />Seagrape Gallery, Charlotte County: <a href="http://www.seagrapegallery.com/">www.seagrapegallery.com</a><br />Seaweed Gallery, Sanibel and Pine Island: <a href="http://www.seaweedgallery.com/">www.seaweedgallery.com</a><br />Art League of Bonita Springs: <a href="http://www.artcenterbonita.org/">www.artcenterbonita.org</a><br />Lee County Alliance for the Arts: <a href="http://www.artinlee.org/">www.artinlee.org</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><br />&nbsp;</p><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=258" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://wgcu.org/members/admin.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2008/10/27/arts-kid-s-theater.aspx2008-10-27T19:07:00Z2008-10-27T19:07:00Z<p><strong>Writer/Producer</strong>: Shawn Holiday<br />&nbsp;<br /><em>Acting is like playing the cymbals. </em></p> <p><em>It’s not the mistake that matters, it’s how you react to it.</em></p> <p><em>Everyone loves applause.</em></p> <p>These are just a few of the axioms that apply to children’s theater. It’s a privilege to see talented youngsters find their own voice in a world crowded with noise and dazzle. Check out how the oldest form of communication lives on in pockets of Southwest Florida, places where the imagination thrives and tales awaken the child within all of us. </p> <p><strong>Resources:</strong></p> <p>Naples Players<br />701 5th Ave S<br />Naples, FL 34102<br />(239) 263-7990<br />Rhona Saunders, PR&nbsp; ext. 37<br /><a href="mailto:rsaunders@naplesplayers.org">rsaunders@naplesplayers.org</a></p> <p>Shawn Holiday<br />1717 Sunset Place<br />Fort Myers, FL 33901<br />239/332-7992<br /><a href="mailto:shaholiday@aol.com">shaholiday@aol.com</a></p> <p>Michelle Hamstra<br /><a href="http://www.creativetheaterworkshop.com/">www.creativetheaterworkshop.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=257" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://wgcu.org/members/admin.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2008/04/25/112-arts-audio-live.aspx2008-04-25T13:43:00Z2008-04-25T13:43:00Z<p>&nbsp;</p><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=209" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://wgcu.org/members/admin.aspxhttp://wgcu.org/blogs/arts/archive/2008/04/25/112-arts-extraordinary-workshops.aspx2008-04-25T13:35:00Z2008-04-25T13:35:00Z<p>&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Writer/Producer: Janina Birtolo</b></p> <p>Want to take an art course but not interested in painting or drawing? The art leagues and associations in Southwest Florida are increasingly expanding their classes to include instruction in lesser known arts that fulfill a different artistic vision. Today, it’s as easy to find a workshop or course in stone sculpting or bead making as it is to explore traditional arts. Learn about the opportunities at the Art Center of Bonita Springs and get inspired!</p> <p><b>Resources:</b></p> <p><a href="http://www.artcenterbonita.org/">Art League of Bonita Springs</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.marcoislandart.org/">Art League of Marco Island</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.artinlee.org/">Lee County Alliance for the Arts</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.naplesartcenter.org/">Naples Art Association </a></p> <p><a href="http://www.seagrapegallery.com/">Seagrape Gallery, Charlotte County</a></p> <p><b>Forum Topics:</b></p> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.wgcu.org/Connect/forums/p/156/205.aspx#205"><span>What art classes have you taken or wanted to take?</span></a></li> <li><a href="http://www.wgcu.org/Connect/forums/p/157/206.aspx#206"><span>Why do you think art classes are so popular in Southwest Florida?</span></a></li> <li><a href="http://www.wgcu.org/Connect/forums/p/158/207.aspx#207"><span>I</span></a><a href="http://wgcu.org/Connect/forums/p/158/207.aspx#207"><span>f you were the director of an art center, what would be the most important things for the center to offer?</span></a></li></ul><img src="http://wgcu.org/aggbug.aspx?PostID=208" width="1" height="1">adminhttp://wgcu.org/members/admin.aspx