PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Welcome to the Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society, a membership organization dedicated to helping members grow and thrive as creative artists.

Each year the Society’s 200 members provide each other with a rich variety of activities to:

· Keep each other informed through a regular newsletter, this website, and periodic news alerts.

· Learn about watercolor and other water-based media from expert watercolorists who work along the Florida Suncoast.

· Study the paintings of artists whose works reflect the latest trends in design and technique alongside more traditional watercolors.

· Participate in at least three juried exhibitions annually that offer recognition and generous awards. Some shows focus exclusively on traditional transparent watercolors; other shows offer an opportunity to exhibit works in all types of aqueous media on a variety of supports. Some shows are limited to Signature members while others are open to non-members.

· Visit art centers along the Florida’s west coast where shows are held to attract as many viewers and serve as many members as possible. In the 2011 – 2012 season, exhibitions will be held on Longboat Key, in North Port and in Carrollwood, near Tampa.

· Socialize with others from a wide region which sets the Society apart from local art groups that have more limited memberships. Receptions before each exhibition increase the opportunity to form lasting friendships.

· Attend one or more workshops led by the Society’s own members thus providing opportunities to share knowledge about unique areas of expertise.

· Receive critiques from expert watercolorists. In 2012, the award-winning watercolorist, teacher and author Pat Weaver will conduct such a critique at the Carrollwood Cultural Center near Tampa.

This list illustrates many compelling reasons for participating in the Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society where members are the core of a vibrant program; it also indicates why I’m so proud to serve as President in 2011- 2012.

Roger H. Parent