arts & business council

MetLife Foundation National Arts Forums Series

Tampa Bay Business Committee for the Arts
Arts Council of Hillsborough County
Tampa, Florida

Leadership: New Frameworks for the Changing Face of America
06/10/2008

Moderator: Carson Cooper, Host, 89.7 WSUF-FM

Presentation by Patricia Martin

Panelists:
• Mary Ann Ference, Owner, Mise en Place Restaurant
• Julie Gorzka, Creator, BrandTampa
• Frank North, Director of Marketing, Ferman Motorcars
• Kerry O’Reilly, Brand Manager, TBT–Tampa Bay Times
• Ken Rollins, Director, Tampa Museum of Art
• Larry Thompson, President, Ringling College of Art and Design
• Thom Stork, Chief Executive Officer, Florida Aquarium
• Nancy Walker, President, Walker Brands

Following Patricia Martin’s presentation on the Renaissance Generation, Carson Cooper led a discussion among panelists focused on transforming Tampa into a culturally energized city. Tampa is currently experiencing a surge in cultural and eco-tourism, but the city is overwhelmed and underprepared for this rise in cultural consumerism. Panelists discussed options for ensuring that Tampa benefits from the growing interest in arts in the community.

The question was asked, “Does Tampa Get It?” Members of the panel stressed the need to start a movement in Tampa. The growing numbers of citizens that are interested in the arts are waiting for the opportunity to involve themselves in cultural events. Tampa needs to make sure those opportunities are there.