TAMPA, FL – Gathered at the Franciscan Center this week is Watercolor Escape, a group of Florida – and former Florida – artists who have been coming to the Center for the past 25 years for a five-day retreat to recharge, and work with guest teachers. These are serious award-winning artists who teach, show, and/or sell their art. Admittance to the group is by invitation only, and even then, there is a waiting list to attend the retreat, which is limited to 20 participants. They find that the peaceful, spiritual atmosphere at the Franciscan Center promotes artistic inspiration!
Each year an acclaimed artist is chosen to share his or her technique and talent at the retreat.
This year’s guest teacher is Sue Pink. Pink works with watercolor and acrylic, using what she calls found objects and junk – toilet brushes, toy cars, toilet paper, stamps – to create stunning abstracts. She begins each work with spontaneity and immediate content, relating reflections of past experiences and acquaintances. Color and texture are major elements in her work, along with her signature muted pallet.
“It is amazing that this unpretentious organization of dedicated artists has been in existence over 25 years, bringing acclaimed artists to our community,” said Franciscan Center CEO Wendy Leigh. “The Franciscan Center is proud to provide the perfect setting of serenity to inspire their personal, as well as, artistic growth.”
The Franciscan Center is located on eight acres along the Hillsborough River in Tampa, FL, just north of the Downtown Riverwalk and Armature Works. Forty-one guest rooms, along with conference rooms of several sizes, sitting areas and a dining room provide the perfect retreat and meeting setting for business, and pleasure.
The Franciscan Center is a non- profit, 501(3)(c), private retreat house sponsored by the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, NY with dedicated laity who are committed in carrying out the mission. Throughout the year team and hosted retreat programs, private and directed retreats, and a place for workshops and meetings. The Center is located on eight acres along the eastern banks of the Hillsborough River. The Center opened its doors in 1970 as a result of the spiritually unique mission. In the Spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, everyone is welcome who seeks spiritual growth, a deeper relationship with God in a place of peace, community, healing and joy.
More information about the Center, upcoming retreat and events, and booking the venue is available by calling (813) 229-2695 and by visitinghttp://www.franciscancentertampa.org/.