| Exciting things are happening here in my hometown of Tampa, particularly among the local arts community.
As the creative scene continues to grow, cultural momentum is even changing the shape of our downtown with the rebuilding of the Tampa Museum of Art.
Demolition of the original museum building (erected along the Hillsborough River in 1979) began on Feb. 4, 2008, making way for a much larger arts facility – 66,000 square feet to be precise.
After about three months of the wrecking ball, a new and thoroughly modern building, described in the vernacular as “a metal box atop a glass pedestal,” will soon begin to rise near the old site. It is expected to be complete by fall 2009.
Meanwhile, the museum staff welcomes new exhibitions to a temporary home in West Tampa. This interim museum at the historic Centro Español building (2306 N. Howard Ave., Tampa; 813/274-8130) opens on March 7, 2008.
Admission is by donation only, and parking is free … so if you’re in the area, stop by for a visit. Their premiere exhibit, “Drawing Beyond the Plane,” explores the intimacy and immediacy of drawing as an artistic process, extending beyond even the “limited scale or two-dimensionality of paper.”
Interim museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with special events on the third Friday of each month from 8 to 11 p.m.
More information is available at the Museum Web site.
While you’re in West Tampa, you may also enjoy visiting the nearby West Tampa Center for the Arts (1906 N. Armenia Ave.), which features working art studios and rotating special exhibits.
Cruise a few blocks down Howard or Armenia avenues (they’re parallel to each other) and you’ll find excellent restaurants and funky shops.
I’m a big fan of the authentic Cuban and Spanish fare at Hugo’s Spanish Restaurant (931 S. Howard Ave., Tampa; 813/251-2842), where gigantic portions and low prices are always on the menu.
Try an overstuffed Cuban sandwich or a plate of Arroz con Pollo, and don’t forget the Café con Leche. Mmmm … heavenly.
After lunch, wander down to Squaresville (508 S. Howard Ave., Tampa; 813/259-9944) for a double dose of kitsch. This little shop is chock full of retro housewares and vintage clothing. I should know – I used to work there.
Don't forget to check out our VISIT FLORIDA city profile for other fun Tampa activities.
And as always … Travel Smart! |
