Art campaign brings together businesses

ENGLEWOOD — Artist Colony Owner Sydney Martin has been making progress on her "Feathers and Flippers" campaign for Dearborn Street after a presentation this month to the Sarasota County Commission.

Martin said that she continuously sees a growing interest in the businesses around Englewood and Dearborn Street.

"As you can see, the initial idea to bring color and interest to Dearborn Street has blown up, becoming an incredible marketing tool for the Village and businesses in Englewood," Martin said.

The campaign aims to add color and interest to Englewood through wildlife sculptures, including a heron, sea turtles and a dolphin.

Businesses and sponsors can select and purchase a sculpture from more than 30 artists who have signed up to paint a design or image, decorating them for the two-year display.

The Community Redevelopment Advisory Board has a fund that’s dedicated to art projects, such as the public Sculpture Garden on Green Street near the corner of Dearborn Street. There’s $10,000 in the fund, and Martin has asked if those funds can be allocated to help with her "Feathers and Flippers" campaign.

Since July's CRA meeting was cancelled, Martin will have to wait until August for the board to make a recommendation to the BOCC in order for them to vote.

In the meantime, Martin has championed her project across the community, trying to incorporate local businesses, local artistry and students.

"Although I initially proposed a two-year display, the Sculpture Garden on Green Street was three years with the $10,000 budget renewing," Martin said. "I now want to propose we extend to three years and refresh the display by changing locations."

The project has gained momentum with local businesses like Rowley's Insurance, Xpertech Auto Repair, Mango Bistro and the Market on Dearborn Street, along with local artists like Carroll Swayze, Kim Demko and Nancy McCune. Martin has also employed the help of Charlotte Technical College students in making the Old Englewood Village website.

Martin invites interested sponsors and businesses to meet from 2-4 p.m July 14 at the Englewood Chamber of Commerce to talk with artists and to learn more about the project.

"You will have an opportunity to see samples of their work, and talk about your ideas for the image on your sculpture," Martin said.