wcw APRIL 2024

APRIL 2024 

Sarah 

Cartwright 

Chief Curator at 

The Ringling Museum 

Also in this issue: 

■ Portrait Ukraine: 

Capturing Faces of 

Resistance Exhibit 

■ Sarasota Art 

Museum Engages 

■ Dining In: 

Time for tempeh 

■ Travel: Women’s 

Art Museum in DC

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2 WEST COAST WOMAN APRIL 2024

APRIL 2024 

contents 

Editor and Publisher 

Louise M. Bruderle 

Email: westcoastwoman@comcast.net 

Contributing Writer 

Carol Darling 

Contributing Photographer 

Evelyn England 

Art Director/Graphic Designer 

Kimberly Carmell 

Assistant to the Publisher 

Mimi Gato 

West Coast Woman is published 

monthly (12 times annually) by 

LMB Media, Inc., Louise Bruderle, 

President. All contents of this 

publication are copyrighted and 

may not be reproduced. No part 

may be reproduced without the 

written permission of the publisher. 

Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs 

and artwork are welcome, but return 

cannot be guaranteed. 

happening 

this month: 

Sarasota 

Film Festival 

Always fun and there are 

lots of Florida-themed 

movies to go with the 

big names. We’ve got a 

preview on 

p23 

HOW TO REACH US: 

Email: westcoastwoman@comcast.net 

Here are our columns: 

n Out & About: includes 

fundraisers, concerts, art exhibits, 

lectures, dance, poetry, shows 

& performances, theatre, film, 

seasonal events and more. 

n You’re News: job announcements, 

appointments and promotions, 

board news, business news and 

real estate news. 

FOLLOW US AT: 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ 

WCWmedia 

focus on the arts: 

Photos from 

Ukraine 

“Portrait Ukraine: Capturing Faces 

of Resistance Amid the Chaos of 

War” with photos by Allan Mestel 

on view at The Lexow Gallery 

in Sarasota. 

p25 

WCW 

36 

YEARS 

WCW Mailing Address: 

P.O. Box 819 

Sarasota, FL 34230 

email: 

westcoastwoman@comcast.net 

website: 

www.westcoastwoman.com 

west coast 

WOMAN 

healthier you: 

How to 

Fall Back Asleep 

Waking up in the middle of the 

night when you would like to 

be asleep can be frustrating. 

Many factors can cause it; 

environment, lifestyle, health and 

aging. Here are some solutions. 

p26 

departments 

4 editor’s letter 

7 Out & About: listings for things to do 

11 happening this month: 

Circus Arts Conservatory 

12 focus on the arts: 

Sarasota Art Museum 


Artist Series Concerts 

15 health: all about Craniosacral Therapy 

16 west coast woman: 

Sarah Cartwright, 

Chief Curator at The Ringling 


Arts Advocates events 

20 healthier you: craniosacral therapy 

22 focus on the arts: Key Chorale 

23 happening this month: 

Sarasota Film Festival 


“Portrait Ukraine” photo exhibit 

26 healthier you: How to Fall Back Asleep 

28 feature: Sarasota Alliance for Historic 

Preservation’s Heritage Awards 

30 dining in: all about Tempeh 

■ on the cover: Sarah Cartwright, Chief Curator at The Ringling. 

■ Image: Louise Bruderle 

APRIL 2024 WEST COAST WOMAN 3

just some 

thoughts 

Louise Bruderle 

Editor and Publisher 

West Coast Woman 

Sarah Cartwright 

Chief Curator at The Ringling 

Sarah Cartwright 

Courtesy photo 

In addition to being well-versed in her profession, 

Sarah, as I was delighted to discover, graduated 

from Pine View School and told me about how she 

spent part of her youth visiting The Ringling with 

her mother and also taking classes there while in 

school. 

Being an art history major, I have to remind myself 

to stay with the interview and not meander into 

talking about art. I mostly succeeded and, having 

an expert on The Ringling collection, I was able to 

learn a lot. For one, being a curator is a lot about 

doing research. 

Sarah told me of reading John Ringling’s letters - of which there are 

many - and exploring his quest for artwork for his home and later his 

museum. He was a serious collector, she explains, not a dilettante, and 

as they say these days, “he knew his stuff.” There’s a lot that goes into 

a curator’s job so I hope that you’ll enjoy reading about the work Sarah 

does at The Ringling. 

Microplastics 

Earth Day is Every Day 

Earth Day is on April 22. In Sarasota it seems like a concrete, asphalt 

and car covered stretch of Earth but there are many fine organizations 

working to preserve the environment, our history and way of life that we 

all enjoy. 

We have Suncoast Waterkeepers, the Sarasota Audubon Society, 

the EcoSummit and Green Living Expo, the Science and Environment 

Council, Southface Sarasota, Conservation Foundation of the Gulf 

Coast, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Friends of Myakka River, Sarasota 

Bay Watch, Save our Seabirds and the Tree Foundation and more. 

To single out one, Community Harvest SRQ (formerly Transition 

Sarasota) tackles the problem of food waste while helping to alleviate 

food insecurity. Volunteers harvest and rescue excess produce from 

area farms and distribute 

to those who could 

use that nutritious 

produce. 

Speaking of volunteers, 

April 21-27 is 

National Volunteer 

Week and all the above 

mentioned organizations 

depend on volunteers 

without whom 

they would not be able 

to do their work. 

This year Earth Day 2024 will focus on eliminating plastic usage “for 

the sake of human and planetary health.” There’s a goal to decrease 

plastic production by 60% by 2040 through shopping sustainably and 

participating in cleanups. 

In an article in the Time Picayune in New Orleans going back to 2018, 

they noted that chemicals found in plastic are now found in the Gulf of 

Mexico’s dolphins. 

“A recent study found 71 percent of bottlenose dolphins tested in 

Sarasota Bay in southwest Florida had evidence of phthalates, a chemical 

compound added to plastic and other products, including paints 

and cosmetics. Phthalates (pronounced ‘tha-lates’) have been linked to 

a host of health problems in humans, and likely cause similar issues in 

dolphins, according to the study published last month in GeoHealth, a 

journal of the American Geophysical Union.” 

“These chemicals can enter marine waters from urban runoff and 

agriculture or industrial emissions, but we also know that there is a 

lot of plastic pollution in the environment,” said Leslie Hart, a public 

health professor at the College of Charleston in South Carolina and the 

study’s lead author. 

Dolphins tested had elevated levels of a phthalate type commonly 

used in plastics, indicating the Gulf’s growing plastic pollution problem 

may be harming marine animals. 

A Louisiana State University study determined that the Gulf has one 

of the highest concentrations of plastic pollution in the world, putting 

it on par with the Black Sea and China’s heavily-industrialized Yangtze 

River. Much of the Gulf’s plastic is in the form of tiny bits and fibers. 

Some of these “microplastics” are produced when larger items, such as 

drink bottles and straws, break down. 

Minuscule plastic beads are also common ingredients in toothpastes, 

body washes and cosmetics. Millions of storm drains, sinks and 

washing machines flush these plastic bits though wastewater systems, 

eventually ending up in marine waters. Recycle, pick up trash, use less 

plastic - it’s doable and benefits mammals like dolphins and humans. 

Strongly Recommend this Exhibit 

The Lexow Gallery is hosting the Portrait Ukraine photography exhibition 

that will run to April 19. This exhibition presents a collection 

of photographs curated from three journeys to Ukraine undertaken 

by photojournalist Allan Mestel. The exhibition captures the faces of 

resistance amid the chaos of war. 

If Lexow Gallery doesn’t ring any bells, that’s because it is located 

within the Unitarian Universalist Church at 3975 Fruitville Road in 

Sarasota. Gallery Hours: Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday 

11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. 

Within weeks of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 

2022, Allan Mestel embarked on a mission to document the harrowing 

realities faced by Ukrainians. 

Limited-edition prints of select images from the Portrait Ukraine 

collection will be available for purchase from Allan Mestel. Profits will 

be used to fund his next journey to Ukraine to continue the Portrait 

Ukraine project. 

Mestel is a photojournalist, photographer, and filmmaker based in 

Southwest Florida who moved here in 2014, Learn more about Allan 

Mestel at www.allanmestel.com. 

Another West Coast 

Woman in the News 

Barbara Ford-Coates has filed to run for 

re-election this November. Barbara was 

first elected as Tax Collector in 1984 and 

has been re-elected nine times. I had the 

pleasure of meeting Barbara and profiling 

her in WCW back in the ‘90s. 

The Sarasota County Tax Collector’s Office 

is responsible for collecting property, 

business and tourist taxes, issuing drivers’ 

licenses and vehicle registrations, hunting 

and fishing licenses, as well as other state 

and local services. Barbara has a staff of 

100 and a budget of $10+million and according 

to her press release, “Ford-Coates 

maintains the lowest cost per capita of all 

Tax Collectors in Florida.” 

As a resident, I also encountered her team over the years and while I 

can’t say paying taxes is fun, when I had to call with a question or visit 

in person, her staff were all trained to act courteously as well as efficiently. 

I kidded her that she made paying taxes almost fun. 

Barbara Ford-Coates 

Louise Bruderle | Editor and Publisher | 

westcoastwoman@comcast.net 

We welcome your thoughts and comments on this column and on other columns and features in this issue. 

You can reach us at westcoastwoman@comcast.net. We’re on the web at www.WestCoastWoman.com. 


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WRITTEN, ADAPTED & DIRECTED BY NATE JACOBS 

Sponsored in part 

by the State of 

Florida through the 

Division of Arts and 

Culture and the National 

Endowment 

for the Arts 

APR 17–MAY 26, 2024 

westcoastblacktheatre.org 

941-366-1505 

1012 N ORANGE AVE SARASOTA 


out &about 

Art Crawl 

Trolley Tour 

Discover Sarasota Tours has an 

Art Crawl Trolley Tour showcasing 

Sarasota’s galleries, studios, and public 

art. This city-wide tour explores six 

different downtown Sarasota neighborhoods 

on the 2nd Friday night 

from 5-9 p.m. through April. The tour 

is led by local guide and watercolor 

artist Jerome Chesley. 

Visitors start at the Trolley Cottage 

Gift Shop located in Gillespie Park. 

Guests can also visit the Artful Giraffe 

Gallery at this hub location. Then they 

will board the trolley or van to explore 

Historic Burns Court, Towles Court 

Art Center, Limelight District, Main 

Street, Palm Avenue and the Rosemary 

District. 

During the 30-minute rotating tour 

you’ll see Sarasota’s collection of public 

art. At each hub stop, guests can 

hop off to explore galleries and studios 

or hop back on to go to the next stop. 

Participating galleries include: 

Chasen Galleries at the Mark, 530 

Burns Court, Define Gallery, Palmer 

Gallery, Artful Giraffe, Creative Liberties, 

Bazaar on Apricot and Lime/ 

Hamlet’s Eatery, Helmuth Stone, Towles 

Court Art Center, Mara Studio Gallery, 

Sarasota Trading Company, Alex 

Art International, Art Ovation Hotel, 

Sarasota Fine Art, Meg Krakowiak Studio 

and NorthStar Jewelry and Gallery. 

The Art Crawl is on April 12. The $10 

ticket includes transport to each of the 

tour’s six gallery locations, free parking 

at The Trolley Cottage Gift Shop, 

and complimentary beer, wine, or 

water before boarding. For tickets and 

information, visit at DiscoverSarasota 

Tours.com or call 941-260-9818. 

▼ 

Special Events 

The Ringling offers Bayfront Gardens 

Tour through April 29. This 

small group guided walking tour 

introduces you to interesting botanical 

specimens, while providing a historic 

overview of the development of the 

estate. The Ringling has over 2,350 

trees representing native, exotic, historical, 

and culturally significant trees. 

The tour is 90 minutes long and 

takes place entirely outdoors. Participants 

are encouraged to bring 

bottled water, and wear appropriate 

footwear, and sun protection. The tour 

is subject to weather conditions and 

ticket includes access to the Bayfront 

Gardens for the rest of the day. www. 

ringling.org/visit/tours 

▼ 

Ring Sarasota 

Not your traditional handbell choir, 

Ring Sarasota is dedicated to enhancing 

handbell ringing as an art form. 

The Sarasota‐based group, under the 

direction of former Navy bandleader 

Rick Holdsworth, showcases over 200 

individual handbells and handchimes 

that create a symphony of sound with 

special effects mimicking the piccolo, 

percussion, trombone, and even the 

Tibetan singing bowl. 

Upcoming Performances: 

• April 13, 7 pm St. Boniface Episcopal 

Church, Siesta Key 

• April 21, 5 pm St. George Episcopal 

Church, The Villages 

• June 14, 6 pm Sights & Sounds at 

Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch (free) 

They’re always looking for new 

performance venues to spread the 

joy of handbells. If interested, call 

▼ 

941-451-7601. For 

information, visit 

RingSarasota.org, 

or facebook.com/ 

RingSarasota 

Perlman 

Music 

Program 

Suncoast 

The Ariel Quartet 

returns to Sarasota 

on April 4 in partnership 

with The 

Jewish Federation of 

Sarasota-Manatee. 

This quartet has garnered 

critical praise 

worldwide for more 

than 20 years—and 

is a favorite among 

regional audiences. 

The concert will be at 

the Ora on the Federation’s 

new campus. 

For more information 

about The Perlman 

Music Program 

Suncoast, visit www. 

PMPSuncoast.org. 

▼ 

Key Chorale 

“Light & Gold” is on April 7 and 

showcases Eric Whitacre and Morten 

Lauridsen who are two of the most 

popular and performed choral composers 

of our time. Join the Key Chorale 

Chamber Singers, Principal Keyboardist 

Glenn Priest, and the musicians of 

Modern Marimba as they present some 

of their most hauntingly beautiful 

works full of memorable, spine-tingling 

harmonies. Hear the Florida premiere 

of Whitacre’s All Seems Beautiful to Me 

and Lauridsen’s masterpiece inspired 

by light, Lux Aeterna. 

The season concludes on April 26 

and 27 with a Venice Symphony Collaboration. 

The Venice Symphony’s 

50th anniversary season concludes 

with their biggest concert ever as they 

welcome Key Chorale and vocalists 

Deanna Breiwick and Dashon Burton. 

Selections include Hans Zimmer’s 

Main Title from The Crown, William 

Walton’s Crown Imperial, Ralph 

Vaughan Williams’ English Folk Song 

Suite, and the choral masterwork Dona 

nobis pacem by Vaughan Williams. 

For more information, visit www. 

keychorale.org. 

▼ 

At Bookstore1 

Georgia’s Occasional Book Club 

led by Georgia Court has The Creative 

Act: A Way of Being by Rick 

Rubin On April 18. 

Georgia’s Occasional Book Club’ 

April’s selection is The Creative Act: 

A Way of Being from legendary music 

producer Rick Rubin, a master at 

helping people connect with the 

wellsprings of their creativity. Rubin 

is a nine-time GRAMMY-winning 

producer, named one of the 100 most 

influential people in the world by 

Time and the most successful producer 

in any genre by Rolling Stone. 

The Banned Book Club led by Bryn 

Durgin has The Tropic of Cancer by 

Henry Miller on April 23. Now hailed 

as an American classic, Miller’s masterpiece 

was banned as obscene in 

this country for 27 years after its first 

publication in Paris in 1934. 

Registration: www.sarasotabooks. 

com, or call 941-365-7900. 

▼ 

that either embody 

Paris, have been 

commissioned by 

groups in the city, or 

are deeply inspired 

or affected by the 

French capital. 

Performances 

showcase and highlight 

both the similarities 

and differences 

of musicians who 

have been changed 

by the City of Light. 

Performers include 

Maurice Cohn, conductor 

(assistant 

conductor, Dallas 

Symphony and music 

director, West Virginia 

Symphony); Lucy 

Fitz Gibbon, soprano; 

Conor Hanick, 

Han Chen and Ryan 

McCullough, pianos; 

and Mike Truesdell 

on percussion. 

Tickets for “Parisian 

Refraction” 

Art Center Sarasota has on exhibit Angela Pilgrim whosework 

celebrates the complex inner worlds of Black women. 

can be purchased at 

Info: www.artsarasota.org 

ringling.org or by 

calling 941-360-7399. For more info, 

visit https://ensrq.org/ 

Selby Gardens 

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 

has Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia 

O’Keeffe which examines the 

work of major artists through the lens 

of their connection to nature. 

The exhibition runs through June 

30, 2024, at Selby Gardens’ Downtown 

Sarasota campus. It explores 

the impactful mentoring relationship 

that developed between artists Yayoi 

Kusama and Georgia O’Keeffe based 

on their personal correspondence at 

a critical point in Kusama’s artistic 

development. This show also explores 

the ways in which the work of both 

artists is rooted in nature, befitting an 

art and horticultural experience set in 

a botanical garden.” 

In the mid-1950s, Yayoi Kusama 

was a young artist living in Japan, 

where her future was very uncertain. 

Seeking advice from a more established 

female artist, Kusama wrote 

to Georgia O’Keeffe, whose work she 

greatly admired but whom she had 

never met. To Kusama’s surprise, 

O’Keeffe responded, thus establishing 

a correspondence that gave the young 

Japanese artist the courage to move 

to America and pursue her career in 

New York City, which was then the 

center of the art world. Kusama’s decision, 

with O’Keeffe’s encouragement, 

forever changed the course of modern 

art history. Tickets: https://selby.org/ 

▼ 

ensembleNEWSRQ 

Next up: Angelica Negron: A 

World Premiere: April 15 at sunset. 

enSRQ is the presenting partner for 

the world premiere of a new work by 

Angélica Negrón, the winner of the 

2022 Hermitage Greenfield Prize, 

presented by the Hermitage Artist 

Retreat. Negrón’s newest, site-specific 

work for a unique ensemble of 

low strings, harps, percussion and 

electronics. Hermitage Artist Retreat, 

6630 Manasota Key Road, Englewood. 

• The Ringling’s Art of Performance 

Series presents: Parisian Refraction: 

May 9-10, 7:30 p.m.; May 11, 2 p.m. 

and 7:30 p.m. Led by Samantha Bennet 

and George Nickson, this four-part 

series explores works and composers 

▼ 

Venice Symphony 

Venice Symphony presents The 

Crown Jewel Finale on April 26 at 7:30 

pm and April 27 at 3:30 and 7:30 pm 

The season concludes with their biggest 

concert ever and nearly 200 musicians 

and singers on stage as Sarasota’s 

Key Chorale, and vocalists, Deanna 

Breiwick and Dashon Burton join 

the orchestra on the VPAC stage. 

The program includes The Crown, 

William Walton’s Crown Imperial, 

Ralph Vaughan Williams’ English 

Folk Song Suite and the choral 

masterwork Dona nobis pacem by 

Vaughan Williams. 

Tickets: www.thevenicesymphony.org 

▼ 

Sarasota Concert 

Association 

April 4, 7:30 p.m. at the Van 

Wezel: Warsaw Philharmonic with 

pianist Bruce Liu. Music Director 

Andrey Boreyko leads the Warsaw 

Philharmonic in Beethoven’s Symphony 

No. 7, and First Prize winner 

of this year’s International Chopin 

Piano Competition Bruce Liu joins 

the Orchestra in Chopin’s beloved 

Piano Concerto No. 1. 

For more information about SCA, 

visit www.scasarasota.org. 

▼ 

La Musica 

La Musica has the following 

performances: 

• April 10—Mendelssohn, Brahms 

& Haydn at the Sarasota Opera House. 

Haydn Piano Trio in A major, Hob. 

XV:18 

Mendelssohn Piano Quartet in C 

minor, op. 1 

Brahms String Sextet no. 2 in G major, 

op. 36 

Julian Rhee, James Thompson, Danbi 

Um, violins; Paul Neubauer, viola; 

Nicholas Canellakis, David Finckel, 

cellos; Michael Stephen Brown, Wu 

Han, pianos 

Get ready for immersion in pure 

delight, starting with Haydn’s vivacious 

Piano Trio. Mendelssohn’s Piano 

Quartet? Let’s just call it what it is: a 

▼ 

tour de force. The exhilarating finish 

is Brahms’s magisterial Sextet for 

Strings: celebratory, happy, so much 

fun for audiences and players alike. 

• April 13—Mozart, Kodaly, & Arensky 

at the Sarasota Opera House. 

Mozart Piano Concerto no. 12 in A 

major, K. 414 

Kodaly Serenade for Two Violins and 

Viola, op. 12 

Arensky Six Children’s Pieces for 

Piano, Four Hands, op. 34 

Arensky Quartet no. 2 in A minor for 

Violin, Viola, and Two Cellos, op. 35 



Nicholas Canellakis, David Finckel, 

cellos; Michael Stephen Brown, Wu 

Han, pianos 

Here’s a classically elegant program 

with spice. Mozart’s own arrangement 

of his Piano Concerto is masterful and 

mysterious. For contrast, Kodály’s Serenade 

expresses Hungarian folk tunes 

with fiery execution. Arensky’s children’s 

songs sighs with innocence, 

before we end on his dark-hued 

and rarely performed Cello Quartet. 

• April 16—Schumann, Smetana, & 

More at the Sarasota Opera House. 

Dvorak Miniatures for two violins and 

viola, op. 75a 

Foss Capriccio for Cello and Piano 

Bulgarian Traditional Gankino Horo 

for Cello and Piano (arr. Canellakis) 

Ellis Bulgarian Bulge for Cello and 

Piano (arr. Canellakis) 

Smetana Piano Trio in G minor, op. 15 

Schumann Piano Quintet in E-flat 

major, op. 44 



Nicholas Canellakis, cello; Michael 

Stephen Brown, Wu Han, pianos 

Personal tributes and private storms 

make up our final program. Listen 

to the Slavic soul in Dvořák and the 

Bulgarian dances. Lukas Foss’s Capriccio 

is six minutes of ultimate instrumental 

virtuosity. Smetana’s Piano 

Trio is his heart-wrenching response 

to the death of his young daughter. 

We end with Schumann’s Piano Quintet, 

his acknowledgement of his wife 

Clara’s virtuosity and concert career. 

Tickets: 941-347-9656 or www. 

lamusicafestival.org 

The Circus Arts 

Conservatory 

April 6—Gold Student Spring 

Showcase. Their youngest students 

share their skills in a thrilling, 

action-packed showcase of their 

newfound love of the circus arts. 

• April 13—Wonderball fundraiser 

• May 4-5—Acrobats, clowns and a 

copious cast of colorful characters 

will dazzle in The Greatest Little 

Show on Earth: Genesis. 

Visit circusarts.org or call the Box 

Office at 941-355-9805. 

▼ 

Sarasota Orchestra 

The Masterworks Series performances 

take place at the Van Wezel 

and Neel Performing Arts Center. 

• Yang Plays Mozart – April 12, 13, 14 

Katharina Wincor, conductor; Joyce 

Yang, piano 

Roger Zare – Neowise 

Mozart – Piano Concerto No. 24 

Dvorak – Symphony No. 8 

Pops performances take place at Van 

Wezel 

• She’s Got Soul – April 19, 20 

Lucas Waldin, conductor with Capathia 

Jenkins, vocals 

▼ 

continued on page 8 


out and about continued 

Discoveries performances take place 

at the Sarasota Opera House 

• Becoming Tchaikovsky – May 11 

David Alan Miller, conductor; 

Zlatomir Fung, cello 

Bizet – Carmen: Excerpts from Suite 

No. 1 

Grieg – Peer Gynt: The Death of Aase 

Missy Mazzoli – These Worlds in Us 

Schumann – Symphony No. 4: 

Movements 2 and 4 

Mozart – Overture to The Magic Flute 

Tchaikovsky – Variations on a Rococo 

Theme 

The Great Escapes performances 

take place at Holley Hall 

• Fantastic Voyage is on April 24-27 

with Christopher Confessore, conductor 

Tickets: www.SarasotaOrchestra.org 

Artist Series 

Concerts 

Artist Series Concerts of 

Sarasota presents: 

• Lunch and Listen has Boyd Meets 

Girl with Rupert Boyd, classical guitar 

and Laura Metcalf, cello on April 

4, 11 am performance followed by 

luncheon at the Sarasota Yacht Club. 

Australian classical guitarist Rupert 

Boyd and his wife, American cellist 

Laura Metcalf, have toured the 

world sharing their eclectic mix of 

music from Debussy and Bach to 

Radiohead and Beyoncé. Their studio 

albums have been streamed over 

three million times. The duo arranges 

much of their repertoire themselves, 

drawing inspiration from artists 

across all genres, and they speak from 

the stage to create a conversational 

concert experience. For all April 

events, see our article in this issue. 

For tickets, visit ArtistSeriesConcerts.org 

or call (941) 306-1202. 

▼ 

The Glenridge 

Performing Arts 

Center 

April 3, 7:30 p.m.: Tony DeSare 

performs with infectious joy, wry playfulness 

and robust musicality. Named 

“Rising Star Male Vocalist” in Downbeat 

magazine, DeSare has brought 

his fresh take on the Great American 

Songbook and infused it with old 

school class around the globe. 

The Glenridge Performing Arts 

Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota. 

For tickets, call (941) 552-5325 or visit 

GPACtix.com. 

▼ 

Choral Artists 

Coming up, Considering Matthew 

Shepard: Featuring Craig Hella Johnson’s 

“Considering Matthew Shepard,” 

a modern-day “Passion” (modeled 

after the great “Passions” of J.S. Bach) 

that tells the story of Matthew Shepard, 

a gay American student at the University 

of Wyoming who was beaten, tortured, 

and left to die near Laramie on 

the night of October 6, 1998. 

In partnership with Embracing 

Our Differences, Project Pride, ALSO 

Youth, and the First Congregational 

Church UCC, this beautiful musical 

story transcends tragedy. Held on Sunday, 

April 14, 7 p.m., at Church of the 

Palms, 3224 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota. 

Tickets: choralartists 

sarasota.org/ 

▼ 

Sarasota Concert 

Association 

▼ 

The Sarasota Concert Association’s 

2024 Music Matinees 

concert series showcase 

regional musicians performing 

a variety of musical 

styles from classical to 

marimba. 

Next is Sarasota Piano 

Trio on April 17, at 2 

p.m. The Sarasota Piano 

Trio features pianist Jesse 

Martins, violinist Milene 

Moreira and cellist Nadine 

Trudel. Praised for their 

interesting programming 

and expressive playing, 

they perform a mix of wellknown 

as well as rarely 

heard classical repertoire. 

The concerts are free 

but pre-registration is 

required at SCAsarasota.org, 

or through the 

box office at 941-966- 

6161. Note their location: 

First Presbyterian Church, 

2050 Oak Street, Sarasota. 

Sarasota 

Ballet 

Program Six: 

• April 5-6 at the Sarasota Opera 

House and accompanied by the Sarasota 

Orchestra 

❱ Emeralds - Choreography by George 

Balanchine; Music by Gabriel Fauré 

❱ Las Hermanas - Choreography by 

Sir Kenneth MacMillan; Music by 

Frank Martin 

❱ Who Cares? Choreography by 

George Balanchine; Music by George 

Gershwin; Music arrangement by 

Hershy Kay 

Opening with George Balanchine’s 

Emeralds, and a score set by Gabriel 

Fauré and designs by Barbara Karinska, 

Balanchine considered Emeralds 

“an evocation of France – the 

France of elegance, comfort, dress 

and perfume.” 

Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s tense psychological 

drama Las Hermanas takes 

a 180 degree turn from the splendor of 

the previous work. The ballet is based 

on Federico García Lorca’s, The House 

of Bernarda Alba. Las Hermanas is a 

dramatic ballet about sensuality under 

harsh repression as well as the emotional 

and violent consequences that follow. 

Program 7: 

• April 26-27—Who Cares? brings 

audiences through a wonderful 

series of solos, duets, quartets, and 

ensemble pieces all set to jazzy 

classics of Gershwin at the Sarasota 

Opera House 

❱ The American - Choreography by 

Christopher Wheeldon; Music by 

Antonín Dvořák 

❱ Ballet - to be announced with choreography 

by Jessica Lang 

❱ Sinfonietta - Choreography by Sir 

Frederick Ashton; Music by Malcolm 

Williamson 

Tony Award winning choreographer 

Christopher Wheeldon created The 

American to Dvoˇrák’s string quartet, 

with both score and choreography 

bringing to life the tranquility and 

open sky of America’s Great Plains. 

Continuing on the creative relationship 

between acclaimed choreographer 

Jessica Lang and The Sarasota 

Ballet, Program 7 will see a new to the 

repertoire work that will be announced 

later in the summer. During the 22 – 23 

Season the Company performed the 

World Premiere of Lang’s Shades of 

Spring to critical acclaim during both 

their Joyce New York tour and the Main 

▼ 

Season in Sarasota. 

Closing the season will be Sir Frederick 

Ashton’s Sinfonietta, an exciting 

and fiendishly difficult abstract 

ballet. A ballet in three parts, its 2nd 

movement, the Elegy, is known as the 

most important section which Ashton 

described as, an extension of sorts of 

the choreographic possibilities he had 

explored in Monotones II. 

Tickets: www.sarasotaballet.org 

At the Van Wezel 

Coming up (partial list): 

• April 11: Theresa Caputo, the Long 

Island Medium 

• April 12-14: Sarasota Orchestra 

presents Yang Plays Mozart 

• April 18: Derek Hough - Symphony 

of Dance 

• April 19- 20: Sarasota Orchestra 

presents She’s Got Soul 

• April 24: The Rocket Man Show 

• April 27: Johnny Mathis: 

The Voice of Romance Tour 

• May 1: George Thorogood and 

The Destroyers 

• May 4: The Concert: A Tribute 

to ABBA 

• May 5: Kenny G. 

Pre-show dining for both shows is 

available through Mattison’s at the 

Van Wezel which is located inside the 

theatre. Reservations can be made 

on VanWezel.org or through the box 

office. Tickets: www.VanWezel.org 

▼ 

The Hermitage 

They have two exhibits: 

• Impact: Contemporary Artists at 

the Hermitage Artist Retreat will be 

on display through July 7, 2024. This 

exhibition features work from ten 

nationally and internationally celebrated 

Hermitage alumni artists, 

including two Hermitage Greenfield 

Prize winners, and the exhibit is curated 

by former Hermitage Curatorial 

Council Member Dan Cameron 

Over the past two decades, each artist 

has been a Fellow at the Hermitage 

Artist Retreat on Manasota Key — a 

unique experience that contributed 

to their creative processes. The exhibit 

will feature work across a range of 

media, including sculpture, painting, 

installation, video, photography, 

▼ 

printmaking, ceramics, 

and textiles. Artists 

include: Diana Al-Hadid, 

Sanford Biggers, Chitra 

Ganesh, Todd Gray, 

Trenton Doyle Hancock, 

Michelle Lopez, Ted Riederer, 

John Sims, Kukuli 

Velarde and William Villalongo 

• The Truth of the Night 

Sky: A Hermitage Collaboration 

featuring the work 

of Hermitage Fellows 

Anne Patterson and Patrick 

Harlin. Opens April 

at Sarasota Art Museum 

opening on April 21 and 

remaining on display 

through September 29. 

Multidisciplinary visual 

artist Anne Patterson and 

composer / soundscape 

artist Patrick Harlin have 

joined forces to develop 

this one-of-a-kind immersive 

experience. 

The exhibition will 

feature several works by 

Patterson, expanding 

upon Harlin’s original 

composition Earthrise, 

an orchestral piece inspired by the 

eponymous 1968 photograph taken 

by Apollo 8 astronaut William Anders 

on humanity’s first-trip around the 

moon. With each step, visitors will 

travel imaginatively through space 

and time. 

This program is free and open to 

the public with a $5/person registration 

fee. Registration is required at 

HermitageArtistRetreat.org. 

At The Ringling 

The John and Mable Ringling 

Museum of Art has Mountains of the 

Mind: Scholars’ Rocks from China 

and Beyond which runs through 

June 23, 2024 in The Ringling’s Ting 

Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Center for 

Asian Art. The exhibit features a selection 

of scholars’ rocks and related 

paintings and prints. 

Scholars’ rocks are collected from 

remote geographic locations, where 

they have been formed by natural 

elements over millions of years. The 

stones may then be carved, polished 

and inscribed before being displayed 

in a custom-made stand to enhance 

their visual appeal. Scholars’ rocks are 

both natural objects and products of 

human creativity. 

• Michele Oka Doner: The True Story 

Of Eve runs through June 2, 2024. 

Explore Miami, Florida-born, Michele 

Oka Doner’s first solo exhibition at 

The Ringling. This exhibition includes 

examples of works on paper, wood, 

ceramics, bronzes, and glass ranging 

from the 1960s to the present, paying 

homage to the local environment, 

while poignantly reminding us of our 

increasingly precarious ecosystem. 

• The Ringling’s Art of Performance 

continues through April. Coming 

up is Un Poyo Royo (Argentina) on 

April 6-8. 

In an empty locker room, two men 

play with movement, an analogue 

radio and tiny shorts. The performers’ 

athletic bodies move fluently from 

wrestling to dance, acrobatics to physical 

comedy, in an irresistible distortion 

of the expectations of manhood. A 

funny, raw, playful hour interspersed 

with competitiveness and camaraderie, 

as well as seduction and sabotage. 

▼ 

While in Sarasota, the artists will give 

a movement masterclass based on 

their performance technique. 

• La Famille GoldenCrust (Quebec) 

runs April 18-21. The GoldenCrust 

Family is a kitsch, fun and humorous 

outdoor performance spectacle, trailer-park 

style! In their magnificent RV, 

the tacky and raucous duo present 

their comedy and circus show: a show 

worthy of the most prestigious campgrounds 

and shopping malls in Florida. 

They have the heart and the ambition, 

the only thing that’s missing 

are the pyrotechnic effects, the technicians, 

and the entire cast of dancers. 

• Parisian Refraction (Sarasota) is 

led by Samantha Bennet and George 

Nickson, ensembleNEWSRQ 

• New Classical Music and runs May 

9-11. This four-part series explores 

works and composers that either 

embody the City of Light, have been 

commissioned by groups in Paris, or 

are deeply inspired or affected by the 

French capital. Performances showcase 

and highlight both the similarities 

and global differences of musicians 

who have been changed by Paris. 

Tickets: ringling.org or call 941- 

360-7399. The John and Mable Ringling 

Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore 

Rd., Sarasota. Info: www.ringling.org. 

Theatre 

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe 

presents Ruby. Book by Nate Jacobs 

and Michael Jacobs, lyrics by Michael 

Jacobs, music by Nate Jacobs, Nehemiah 

Luckett, Brennan Stylez and Antonio 

Wimberly.) On August 3, 1952, a 

Black woman murdered a white doctor 

in Live Oak, FL, guaranteeing a conviction 

for the woman bold enough to 

commit such a shocking crime and 

bringing celebrated writer Zora Neale 

Hurston to town to cover the story for a 

northern newspaper. 

This powerful and haunting musical 

explores the secrets just beneath the 

surface of the idyllic, genteel exterior 

of a quaint Florida town. Runs 

through April 7. 

Location: WBTT’s Donelly Theatre, 

1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. Tickets: 

westcoastblacktheatre.org. 

▼ 

The Players Sarasota has The 

Secret Garden running April 3-21. 

This enchanting classic of children’s 

literature is reimagined in 

brilliant musical style by composer 

Lucy Simon and Marsha Norman. 

Orphaned in India, 11-year-old Mary 

Lennox returns to Yorkshire to live 

with her embittered, reclusive uncle 

Archibald and his disabled son Colin. 

The estate’s many wonders include a 

magic garden which beckons the children 

with haunting melodies and the 

“Dreamers,” spirits from Mary’s past 

who guide her through her new life. 

Held at Studio 1130, 3501 S. Tamiami 

Trail, Suite 1130, Sarasota. 

Tickets: theplayers.org 

▼ 

Manatee Performing Arts Center 

has these events: 

• My Son The Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy. 

It’s actor/comedian Brad Zimmerman’s 

moving and hilarious 

story about the grit and passion 

required to ‘make it’ as an artist, and 

the rewards that come from never 

giving up. Brad moved to New York 

and ‘temporarily’ worked as a waiter 

for 29 years, while pursuing his 

career as an actor. Runs April 3-7. 

• Majesty of Rock faithfully recreates 

the exact sounds and nuances of the 

▼ 

8 WEST COAST WOMAN APRIL 2024 

continued on page 10

healthier you 

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! 

FATIGUE 

It’s Rampant - Everywhere 

Are you ready 

for another round? 

Fatigue as a presenting symptom 

with my patients is on 

the rise. We have seen more and 

more adults and adolescents with 

complaints of exhaustion and fatigue 

not relieved by sleep. This can lead to 

further issues such as: the inability to 

perform otherwise routine tasks, exercise 

intolerance, and a lowered immune system, 

causing an increase in flus, colds, 

and viral episodes such as herpes and 

EBV. Fatigue has always been a regular 

complaint since beginning my practice, 

over 52 years ago, but why on the rise? 

To better understand it, let’s look 

at the usual causes of fatigue: 

1. Hormones: Deficiencies in hormones 

such as Thyroid, Progesterone, 

Testosterone (in women as well 

as men), Cortisol, etc. contribute 

to fatigue in a large manner as we 

grow older. Progesterone deficiency 

can interfere with a good night’s 

sleep. Undue or continuous stress 

can cause ‘’ cortisol levels to plummet 

leaving a person feeling “burnt 

out” with no reserve. Testosterone 

in both males and females produces 

‘energy in your tank’, as well as 

increased libido. Thyroid is the ‘battery’ 

of the body. Without it, your 

body can grow cold and weak. 

2. Mitochondria: Mitochondria are the 

powerhouses of the cell that produce 

ATP, which is a form of chemical 

energy (the ‘ever-ready’ batteries 

of life). When these little ‘batteries’ 

get sick, the body runs out of energy 

and cannot efficiently perform their 

metabolic functions. Recent decades 

have seen a rapid increase in 

reported toxic effects of drugs and 

pollutants on mitochondria. 

3. Sleep: Without adequate, restful 

sleep, your body will ‘run out of 

steam’, you will not be able to think 

straight. Coping with life then becomes 

a difficult task and your immune 

system can easily falter. Lack 

of restful sleep even contributes to 

heart disease and to neurological 

diseases, like Alzheimer’s. 

4. Exercise: Research shows that lack 

of proper exercise sends the message 

to your body that you are no longer 

useful. On the other hand, adequate 

exercise sends a message to your 

muscles, bones, brain, immune system, 

and heart that you are healthy 

and willing and able to contribute. 

Although it can be tiring to start a 

new exercise routine, after about 2-3 

weeks most people start to see a shift 

in their fatigue symptoms. Start 

with a routine that’s manageable 

and attainable and then build up 

from there. 

5. Toxins: Toxins take on many forms 

and are ubiquitous in our modern 

environment. There are increasing 

amounts of household chemicals, 

heavy metals, plastics, VOCs, agricultural 

chemicals in our food and 

in our water, as well as biological 

toxicants, such as mold and bacteria. 

Now, for the good news! 

At The Renewal Point, we’ve been 

studying fatigue and helping patients get 

to the root cause of their symptoms for 

decades. By listening to our patients and 

carefully reviewing test results, we can 

get an accurate picture of what’s going 

on and move forward with a personalized 

plan of care. If you are dealing with 

symptoms of fatigue and exhaustion, we 

are here to help! To learn more or schedule 

a consultation, you can give us a call 

at 941-926-4905. 

————————————————— 

SOURCE: Dr. Watts, 

MD, ND, MSNM and 

Deb Spinner, ARNP, 

MSN, are experts in 

Integrative Medicine. 

With over 25 years 

experience in Hormone 

Balancing, a 

Post-doctoral Certification 

in Metabolic 

Endocrinology, and a 

Fellowship in Anti-Aging, 

Regenerative, and 

Dr. Dan Watts 

MD, ND, MSMN 

The Renewal Point 

FOUNDER/DIRECTOR 

Functional Medicine, Dr. Watts has put 

together programs that have helped 

thousands of patients renew their love 

and vigor for life. 

4905 Clark Road, Sarasota 

Phone: 941-926-4905 

www.TheRenewalPoint.com 

SUNDAY 

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out and about continued 

super group, Journey. They pay special 

homage to Journey’s best years 

(1977-1998) when Steve Perry fronted 

the band. Lead singer, John D’Agostino 

aces Steve Perry’s golden voice, 

capturing the power, range, and tone. 

• The battle of the sexes takes center 

stage as former spouses feud onstage 

and off during a musical presentation 

of The Taming of the Shrew. Sophisticated, 

romantic and delightfully 

hilarious, Kiss Me, Kate boasts a sparkling 

Cole Porter score and a brilliant 

book from Sam and Bella Spewack. 

Box Office: 941-748-5878. Manatee 

Performing Arts Center, 502 Third 

Avenue W., Bradenton. 

At Venice Theatre: 

• Through April 21: The Spitfire Grill. 

The Spitfire Grill. Based on the film 

by Lee David Zlotoff. Heartwarming, 

homespun, and hopeful, The 

Spitfire Grill is a folk musical in the 

Rodgers and Hammerstein tradition 

about second chances, starting over, 

and mending what’s broken. 

• May 3 - 5: Pinky’s Players Delight 

once again in the inspiring performances 

of Pinky’s Players, Venice 

Theatre’s Community Engagement 

Program that gives adults with 

intellectual and developmental disabilities 

a chance develop and share 

their artistic talents. 

Info: venicetheatre.org/ 

▼ 

At Asolo Rep: 

• The third play in the repertory season 

is from the Pulitzer Prize-winning 

playwright Lynn Nottage. Intimate 

Apparel runs throughApril 18 

and is the powerful story of a Black 

seamstress’ forbidden romance in 

1905 New York. 

• Wrapping up the four-show repertory 

season is a classic by Frederick 

Knott that has been reimaged by one 

of today’s greatest playwrights, Jeffrey 

Hatcher. Dial ‘M’ For Murder 

runs through April 25 and will take 

audiences to the edge of their seat as 

Asolo Rep Associate Artistic Director 

Céline Rosenthal directs. 

Visit asolorep.org to learn more info. 

▼ 

At Urbanite Theatre: 

• Westminster is at Urbanite Theatre 

through April 28. After winning first 

place at the 2023 Modern Works Festival, 

Urbanite is proud to present the 

world premiere of WESTMINSTER by 

Brenda Withers. Things get off on the 

wrong paw when Pia is gifted a dog 

by an old friend Krys. This screwball 

romp, part morality play digs into our 

“acceptable” social prejudices—and 

the consequences of leaving those 

biases unchecked. 

www.urbanitetheatre.com 

▼ 

Continuing its Shakespeare in The 

Ringling Bayfront Gardens series, 

the FSU/Asolo Conservatory presents 

Romeo and Juliet (April 5 - 28) in 

the banyan grove of The Ringling with 

select performances indoors on the 

Cook Theatre stage. This production 

will allow the audience to experience 

the tragic tale indoors or outdoors, 

immersing them in the timeless story 

of love and hate. 

For information, visit asolorep.org/ 

conservatory. 

▼ 

The Sarasota Jewish Theatre 

presents: 

• The Bintel Briefs, Memories and 

Melodies at Temple Sinai on April 

30. In the early 20th century, Jewish 

people immigrating to America were 

often overwhelmed and confused by 

▼ 

their new lives. Many found guidance 

through The Bintel Briefs, a Yiddish 

advice column found in the Daily 

Forward newspaper. 

Memories and Melodies is a one act 

staged reading with music, bringing 

to life the warm, humorous, poignant, 

and deeply human letters from that 

advice column. 

The event begins with a 6:30 p.m. 

with a wine Reception followed by 

the show at 7:30 p.m. Members $18; 

guests $25. Tickets available online or 

at the door. 

To get tickets and learn more go to 

SinaiSRQ.org. Temple Sinai is at 4631 

S. Lockwood Ridge Road (enter off of 

Proctor Rd) in Sarasota. 

Musica Sacra 

On May 17 at 7 pm they have American 

Spirit which celebrates American 

creativity, resilience, and vision with 

works by Howard Hanson, Aaron Copland, 

African American spirituals, and 

settings of poetry by Walt Whitman, 

Langston Hughes and others. Features 

pianist Glenn Priest and orchestra in 

Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. 

Location: First Presbyterian Church, 

2050 Oak Street. Tickets: Musica 

SacraSarasota.org. 

▼ 

At The Galleries 

From April 5-27, SPAACES has the 

Common Ground project. The collaborative 

art-making process not only 

provides a platform for artists to share 

their struggles and coping mechanisms 

but also invites viewers to connect 

with and better understand the 

emotional challenges faced by individuals 

with mental health conditions. 

The exhibition serves as a powerful 

testament to the positive relationship 

between creativity, expression, and 

mental well-being. Opening reception: 

April 5, 6-8 p.m. 

SPAACES Main Gallery, 2051 Princeton 

Street, Sarasota. More info at www. 

spaaces.art or call 941-374-3492. 

▼ 

Creative Liberties is featuring artists 

Tom Rio, Charlotte Jordan and 

Michelle Depaolis-Wampner, who 

will be taking up studio residence at 

Creative Liberties in Gaze Gallery at 

the ARCOS Apartments. 

Meet artists Tom Rio, Charlotte Jordan 

and Michelle Depaolis-Wampner, 

who are the featured artists-in-residence 

at Creative Liberties in Gaze 

Gallery at the ARCOS Apartments, 

340 Central Avenue in Sarasota. The 

exhibition runs through April 30. 

▼ 

‘Portrait Ukraine: Capturing 

Faces of Resistance Amid The Chaos 

of War’ Photography Exhibition will 

run to April 19 at the Lexow Gallery 

in Sarasota. 

The exhibition presents a collection 

of photographs meticulously curated 

from three journeys to Ukraine undertaken 

by distinguished photojournalist 

Allan Mestel. The Portrait Ukraine 

Exhibition captures the faces of resistance 

amid the chaos of war. Lexow 

Gallery, 3975 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota. 

See our article in this issue. 

Gallery Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10a.m. 

to 2p.m.; Sunday 11:30a.m. to 1:30p.m. 

▼ 

All Angels Church has an exhibition 

of Byzantine Style Icons by 

Christine Simoneau Hales from April 

7- June 28. 

Since the beginning of Christianity, 

icons have been revered as aids to 

▼ 

prayer and contemplation. They are 

visual reminders of the Saints and 

Gospel stories that have inspired all 

Christians throughout the ages. 

Hales has studied for many years 

and now teaches and produces icons 

for churches and private collectors. 

Hales is sought after for her modern, 

yet traditional icons for churches all 

over the world. She has won several 

grants and awards for her painting and 

is now a local Sarasota iconographer. 

She will share her own collection 

of icons she has crafted in the ancient 

Byzantine Tradition using egg tempera 

paints and gold leaf gilding on 

wood panels. Gallery hours: Mon- 

Thurs. 9-1, and Sundays 11:30-12:30 

(June- no Sunday hours). Info: 518- 

965-4833. 

Art CenterManatee has Manatee 

County School District Annual K-12 

Exhibition in the Kellogg, Searle & 

Reid Hodges Galleries, April 9-26. 

Opening: April 11, 5-7 pm. 

ArtCenter Manatee once again joins 

with the School District of Manatee 

County to showcase the work of K-12 

visual arts students. In Manatee County, 

we’re fortunate to have a Board of 

Education that has made a continued 

commitment to teaching the visual 

arts in its elementary, middle and high 

schools. By partnering with ArtCenter 

Manatee, that commitment is furthered 

by giving these young artists 

a ‘voice’ – three museum-quality galleries 

– where their work can be professionally 

displayed and where the 

artists can receive positive recognition 

by a wider audience. 

• Dreamscapes, an All Media Open 

Juried Show, runs April 30-May 31 

infall galleries. Artists are asked to 

submit artwork that reflects their 

deepest desires, aspirations, fears, 

and emotions, allowing artists to push 

their boundaries and explore new 

dimensions of their creativity. Opening 

Reception: May 2, 5-7 p.m. 

They’re at 209 9th St W, Bradenton. 

Info: ArtCenterManatee.org 

▼ 

Art Center Sarasota 

Cycle 4: through April 20. 

• Natasha Dikareva: Natasha Dikareva 

reflects on the current state of her 

homeland, Ukraine in her upcoming 

exhibition featuring a variety of narrative, 

figurative ceramic sculptures. 

• Angela Pilgrim: Drawing on a 

skillful fusion of printmaking, painting, 

and mixed media her work celebrates 

the complex inner worlds of 

Black women and invites viewers to 

contemplate the spiritual dimensions 

▼ 

of our existence, exploring themes of 

identity, faith, and resilience. 

• Michael Kinsey: Michael Kinsey’s 

“Listening to Black Voices,” showcases 

black and white portraits, highlighting 

the richness and diversity of 

Sarasota’s Black community. 

• Juried Show: “Great Artists Steal” 

encourages artists to create works 

inspired by their favorite artists and 

artworks from contemporary art and 

art history. This inspiration may come 

from the technique, content, or style of 

the artist(s) or artwork(s) in reference, 

and uniquely recontextualizing these 

elements. 

Art Center Sarasota, 707 N. Tamiami 

Tr., Sarasota. Info: www.artsarasota.org 

Selby Gardens has Clyde Butcher: 

Nature Through the Lens at the 

Historic Spanish Point campus on 

view to August 31, 2024. Featuring 

extraordinary, large-format wildlife 

prints by this well-known landscape 

photographer and conservationist, 

Clyde Butcher: Nature Through 

the Lens gives viewers the chance to 

engage with Clyde Butcher’s artwork 

against the backdrop of our Historic 

Spanish Point campus. selby.org 

▼ 

A capsule collection of Florida 

Highwaymen paintings is on display 

in the Cultural Heritage Exhibit in 

the City Hall atrium, 1565 First Street. 

Known as Florida’s legendary Black 

landscape artists, the Florida Highwaymen 

emerged in the 1950s in the agricultural 

communities of Fort Pierce 

and Gifford, Florida. The group of 

young painters, which grew to include 

25 men and one woman, became 

known as The Highwaymen. They were 

prolific painters who sold their artwork 

from the trunks of their cars during 

the post-World War II boom because 

they were unable to exhibit through 

traditional means due to racial barriers. 

While making ends meet, they also 

made a significant contribution to the 

genre of Florida landscape painting. 

Free and open to the public during 

City Hall hours, Monday–Friday 8 a.m. 

to 5 p.m. 

▼ 

Sarasota Orchestra’s Harmony 

Gallery features local artists showcasing 

their work in solo exhibitions 

throughout the Orchestra’s season. 

These juried exhibitions feature artists 

with mediums ranging from painting 

to pastels to mixed media. Part of all 

proceeds from the sale of the artwork 

benefit Sarasota Orchestra. 

• Next: Emma Seaworthy. Exhibition 

Titled: Water. Seaworthy, creates 

artwork influenced by the Florida 

▼ 

The Van Wezel has 

George Thorogood 

and The Destroyers 

on May 1. 

Tickets: 

www.VanWezel.org 

wilds. Her mixed media work features 

environmentalist themes and 

offers a deep appreciation for our 

local ecosystems. Her work has been 

featured at both environmental and 

art venues, enticing viewers to ask 

questions and think critically about 

our perceptions of nature. Exhibit 

runs through May 9. 

At Arts Advocates: 

• Arts Advocates has Elisabeth Trostli’s 

show, “Fierce and Fabulous,” on 

exhibit from April 6-27, Saturdays 

only from 2-4 p.m. 

Trostli uses a creative digital painting 

process to incorporate detailed 

visual references and embellishments 

into her works. The paintings in this 

exhibition are inspired by Trostli’s 

travels; vintage scientific engravings; 

Steampunk; Pre-Raphaelite and 

Baroque sources; Celtic, Asian and 

African mythology; Medieval knights 

and armor; tribal textiles; and Victorian 

jewelry. Admission is free. 

• On April 9, 4-6 p.m. in the Arts Advocates 

Gallery, Trostli presents the art 

talk, “From Digital Painting to AI.” She 

will discuss and demonstrate her artistic 

process in the creation of her work 

on the computer. Free for Arts Advocates 

members; $5 for non-members. 

• The “Behind the Curtain: Exploring 

the Van Wezel from the Art to the 

Stage” tour is on April 15, 1:30-3 p.m. 

A docent leads a tour of the paintings 

and sculptures including those by Robert 

Chase, William Hartman, Eugene 

White, Ben Stahl, Thornton Utz, Frank 

Colson, Dean Mitchell, and others. 

Participants then step onto the stage 

where a Van Wezel guide shares stories 

and anecdotes about the colorful world 

of show business. Tickets are $15 and 

can be purchased at the Van Wezel box 

office or by calling (941) 263-6799. 

• Arts Advocates’ next luncheon program, 

held at the Sarasota Yacht Club, 

1100 John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, 

will have Bookstore1Sarasota owner 

Georgia Court and assistant manager/ 

director of programming Bryn Durgin 

present Banned Books – What People 

are Reading on April 18. 

• Artist Susan Hurwitch will lead 

an intro to mixed media and collage 

basics workshop on April 27, 12:00- 

2:30 p.m. in the Arts Advocates Gallery. 

Using floral imagery, this fastpaced 

workshop will have each participant 

creating one 6x9-inch artwork. 

Cost is $45. 

To learn more or to register for programs 

and events, visit ArtsAdvocates.org. 

Meetings 

The Palm-Aire Women’s Club’s next 

luncheon meeting is on April 14 when 

they will award annual scholarships 

to local students. Four 2-year scholarships 

will be awarded to State College 

of Florida students. Additionally, two 

scholarships will be given to Manatee 

Technical Institute students. Each student 

must attend school full-time and 

remain in good academic standing. 

The recipients and their mentors will 

be honored at the luncheon. 

The luncheon is at the Palm Aire 

Country Club and starts at 11:30 

a.m. Cost: $33 for members; $35 for 

non-members. Reservations must 

be received by April 5. Reserve your 

seat now by mailing a check to March 

PAWC Lunch , P O Box 21051, Bradenton 

Fl 34204 or drop it off at the 

PAWC mailbox by the PACC reception 

desk. For credit cards, contact 

Susan at susanromine@gmail.com. 

▼ 


happening this month 

Circus Arts Conservatory’s 

EDM concert and fundraiser, 

WONDERBALL on April 13 

Headliner is Norwegian DJ and producer Alan Walker 

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The Circus Arts Conservatory 

(CAC) has again WONDER- 

BALL, a high-energy event that 

will feature an electronic dance 

music (EDM) star. Proceeds will 

benefit its youth education programs. 

WONDERBALL’s dance concert experience 

will headlined by Norwegian DJ and 

producer Alan Walker. The event is on Saturday, 

April 13 at 7 p.m. in the Sailor Circus 

Arena in Sarasota. 

This year’s event features a larger stage 

with enhanced LED lasers, lights and video 

screens, in keeping with Walker’s recent 

multiple-stop sold-out arena tour. The vibe 

for WONDERBALL 2024 is neon and guests 

are encouraged to dress in dance-ready festival/clubwear. 

Opening up for Walker are DJ August 

(Harrison Koffman), DJ Pushman (Mike 

Putnam), and DJ Peter DiCaro from New 

York; DiCaro will also close out the event in 

the arena after Walker’s set. Students from 

the Sailor Circus Academy will perform 

during a special mission moment performance 

before Walker takes the stage. 

This is an all-ages welcome event; alcohol 

and bar service will be available to guests 

ages 21+ with proper ID. Concessions will 

also be available. The venue will be decorated 

and lighted to convey the ambience of an 

EDM show, with special circus touches as 

only the CAC can provide. 

The CAC’s youth education programs include 

its Sailor Circus Academy, the oldest 

youth circus in the U.S.; circus magnet programs 

at Booker Middle School and Sarasota 

High School; spring break and summer 

camps; and the Arts Integrated Education 

Program, an in-school, kinesthetic learning 

experience that supplements elementary 

and middle school science coursework. 

“With the success of WONDERBALL last 

year, we knew this was an event we needed 

to continue,” said Jennifer Mitchell, executive 

vice president/COO of the CAC. “The magic of 

the circus arts combined with the energy and 

visual possibilities of EDM and the amenities 

and technology of our Sailor Circus Arena are 

sure to create an evening that is truly unique 

in our community. We were thrilled to secure 

an artist of Alan’s reputation and look forward 

to welcoming him to Sarasota for what is sure 

to be a spectacular event.” 

Renowned for his ability to craft hypnotic, 

high energy tour sets that have captured 

the hearts of fans the world over, Walker, 

who is just 26 and is known for wearing a 

mask during his shows, has over 115 million 

followers across his social platforms, more 

than 12 billion YouTube views and 50 billion 

audio and video streams. 

Walker arrived on the music scene in late 

2015, with his debut hit single “Faded” garnering 

over 1.4 billion Spotify streams and 

3.1 billion YouTube video views. The single 

also earned him a BRIT awards nomination 

for Song of the Year, as well as a Norwegian 

Grammy win in the same category. 

After building a massive social following 

and releasing a string of successful singles – 

and collaborating with artists including Ava 

Max, Noah Cyrus, Sia, Bruno Mars, Hans 

Zimmer and Coldplay – the chart-topping 

debut album “Different World” arrived in late 

2018, amassing over 4 billion streams on Spotify. 

He has played over 650 headlining shows 

and festivals to date, including Coachella and 

Tomorrowland, in addition to selling out his 

worldwide arena tour, “The Aviation Tour.” 

In 2021, he delivered his “World of Walker” 

album and then, in 2022, he gradually 

unveiled the #Walkerverse: dropping his 

two-part Walkerverse album, he kicked off a 

tour of Europe and North America, playing a 

mammoth run of sold-out shows and upping 

the ante with insane visuals and dazzling 

production. In 2023, he released the song 

“Dreamer,” which reached 1 million views 

on YouTube within 13 days of its release. 

In addition to DJ Walker and several 

warm-up acts, the event promises an immersive 

experience with LED lasers, lights 

and video screens as well as a circus performance 

by Sailor Circus students. 

The immersive concert experience begins 

in the Sailor Circus Arena with doors 

opening at 7 p.m. A separate ticketed official 

WONDERBALL after-party will continue at 

Michael’s On East from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m., 

with local DJs taking the stage. 

For information or to purchase tickets, visit 

circusartswonderball.com. For more 

about Circus Arts Conservatory, visit 

CircusArts.org or call (941) 355-9335. 

THE VENICE SYMPHONY 

50TH ANNIVERSARY 

NOVEMBER 2023 - APRIL 2024 

AT THE VENICE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 

TICKETS ON SALE NOW 

MUSIC DIRECTOR 

TROY QUINN 

For more information, visit 

thevenicesymphony.org or call 941-207-8822 


focus on the arts 

Sarasota Art Museum 

Engages the Senses with Celestial 

Spring Exhibition 

‘The Truth of the Night Sky’ is a collaboration between 

multimedia artist Anne Patterson and composer Patrick Harlin 

Imagine an intergalactic 

voyage. Waves 

of vibrant color and obscure 

darkness surround 

you. Music and ambient 

sound envelop you. Sarasota 

Art Museum of Ringling 

College of Art and Design 

will take visitors on a journey 

through space and time with 

The Truth of the Night Sky: 

Anne Patterson and Patrick 

Harlin, on view April 21- 

Sept. 29. 

Organized in collaboration 

with the Hermitage Artist 

Retreat, the immersive installation 

conveys possibility, 

wonderment and unity with 

Harlin’s orchestral composition 

and Patterson’s paintings, 

sculpture, and signature 

ribbon installations. 

Patterson, a multimedia artist, 

is a synesthete who visualizes 

color and shape when she 

hears music, especially classical 

music. Harlin, a composer, 

combines classical, jazz, and 

electronic traditions to produce 

music that displays his 

respect for the great outdoors. 

When the two met and began 

collaborating in 2014 while in 

residence at the Hermitage 

Artist Retreat on Manasota 

Key, Florida, they discovered 

their shared affinity for drawing inspiration 

from nature. Their collaboration in The 

Truth of the Night Sky at Sarasota Art Museum 

expands upon the iconic photograph 

of Earth taken from Apollo 8 in 1968. 

Harlin’s Earthrise serves as the processional, 

the sound that sets the mood and 

guides visitors through the exhibition. 

In 2021, Harlin applied to be among eight 

artists who would join SpaceX’s inaugural 

tourist flight around the moon. He imagined 

the trip would prompt him to compose a 

new soundtrack for space travel. When he 

wasn’t chosen, he turned his attention instead 

to the Apollo 8 photograph. With the 

revered image from space in mind, he composed 

Earthrise, which he coincidentally 

completed on Earth Day in 2022. 

“There is a sense of awe in looking at the 

night sky, the vastness of the universe, and 

the improbability of reaching the moon, let 

alone our closest stars,” said Harlin. “To 

date, 24 humans have taken the 240,000- 

mile trip and experienced the excitement 

of skyward travel accompanied by the violence 

of exiting Earth’s atmosphere and 

gravitational pull. I hope visitors to Sara- 

Anne Patterson. Celestial Orbs, 2024. Steel piano 

wire, resin and gold leaf, dimensions variable. 

sota Art Museum might vicariously experience 

the feeling that astronauts who have 

taken the trip beyond the moon have.” 

The Truth of the Night Sky will offer 

immersive encounters with both artists’ 

works. The exhibition will open with ambient 

sounds, such as those of a trumpet 

or string instrument. These excerpts from 

Harlin’s 20-minute orchestral composition 

will be paired with Patterson’s drawings 

and sculptural pieces that conjure celestial 

bodies, stars, and birds in flight. 

Featured are several series by Patterson, 

including Stars Spinning Through Spring 

(2018-19), The Truth of the Night Sky (2018- 

19), and We Are All Stardust (2019-23). A 

majestic tree assembled from driftwood 

will be suspended from the ceiling, anchoring 

the dimly lit gallery and providing 

a grounding image of nature in contrast to 

the world of outer space. 

Harlin’s full composition will then play 

as visitors enter the adjacent gallery and 

walk through a kaleidoscope of colorful 

satin ribbons cascading from the ceiling 

Artist Anne Patterson in her studio. 

Courtesy of the artist. 

Photo: Kat Choe 

Composer Patrick Harlin recording in the Amazon Rainforest. 

Courtesy of the artist. Photo: Audrey Kelley 

to the floor. Projected onto the ribbons 

will be abstract black-and-white video images 

moving in sync with the cadence and 

rhythm of Harlin’s music. 

“Patrick Harlin and I will challenge perceptions 

and transform the space with celestial 

sculptural forms, vivid hues, dazzling 

light, and a mesmerizing, inviting musical 

score to create an air of transcendence and 

uplift,” said Patterson. “The viewer will witness 

the wonderment of the universe and nature 

that surrounds us and be reminded that 

only when it is dark can we see the stars.” 

The exhibition will offer a tactile sensory 

experience with a galactic space that instills 

a sense of hope and resilience—qualities 

from nature that both Patterson and Harlin 

find as sources of their creative inspiration. 

Patterson, a New York-based artist, holds 

a graduate degree in theater design from the 

Slade School of Art in London and a bachelor’s 

degree in architecture from Yale University. 

Her work has been widely exhibited 

and collected in museums and cultural 

institutions including exhibitions at The 

Ringling Museum in Sarasota and Trapholt 

Museum in Denmark. Patterson’s theatrical 

and symphonic partnerships have included 

Lincoln Center and The Kennedy Center. 

Harlin holds a doctorate in music composition 

from the University of Michigan and 

currently resides in Ann Arbor, Michigan. 

His works have been performed by the St. 

Louis Symphony and the Rochester and 

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestras, among 

others. He was the inaugural recipient of 

the Hermitage Prize in Composition at the 

Aspen Music Festival. 

Exhibit Details: 

SARASOTA ART MUSEUM 

is located at 

1001 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 

On view April 21-September 29. 


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Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota’s 

April Lineup 

All concerts this month will feature duos 

▼ Australian 

classical guitarist 

Rupert Boyd and 

his wife, American 

cellist Laura 

Metcalf ▶ 

▲ Violin 

Channel 

“Rising 

Star” Hina 

Khuong-Huu 

and Steinway 

Artist Rohan 

De Silva ▶ 

photo credit: Todd Rosenberg 

Artist Series 

Concerts’ 

international 

competition 

winners 

▲ Shannon Lee, 

violin, and 

Ying Li, piano ▶ 

Married pianists Catherine Lan 

and Tan Lin of Duo Beaux Arts ▶ 

photo credit: John Beebe 

photo credit: Shervin Lainez 

Hina Khuong-Huu, Violin Channel 

“Rising Star” and first prize winner of 

the 2023 Elmar Oliveira International 

Violin Competition, performs around 

the globe. She has collaborated with 

artists such as Grammy Award-winner 

Jennifer Koh and shared a stage with 

Maxim Vengerov at Carnegie Hall and 

Buckingham Palace. 

Khuong-Huu and Steinway Artist Rohan 

De Silva, whose collaborations with 

Itzhak Perlman, Pinchas Zukerman, 

Midori, Joshua Bell and others have 

been acclaimed worldwide, will present 

a soirée concert at 4:00 pm on April 

1 in the music room of the Fischer/ 

Weisenborne residence in Sarasota. 

The duo will perform compositions by 

Saint-Saëns, Frank, Wagner, and Ravel. 

Single ticket: $60. 

Australian classical guitarist Rupert 

Boyd and his wife, American cellist 

Laura Metcalf have toured the world 

as Boyd Meets Girl, sharing their eclectic 

mix of music from Schubert to Radiohead 

and Beyoncé. The duo arranges 

much of their repertoire themselves, 

drawing inspiration from artists across 

all genres, and they speak from the stage 

to create an engaging, conversational 

concert experience. This luncheon concert 

on April 4 at Sarasota Yacht Club 

features, in part, their own arrangements 

of works by Lennon/McCartney, 

Debussy, Bach, Shaw, and Price. Single 

ticket: $68 (includes lunch). 

Founded in 2008 by the husband-andwife 

team of internationally renowned 

pianists Catherine Lan and Tao Lin, 

Duo Beaux Arts takes the power of the 

piano and doubles it. Known for their 

adrenalized performances, this dynamic 

duo has performed to critical acclaim 

across the U.S., Europe, and China. 

This recital features works for piano 

“four hands” and two pianos, including 

Mozart’s Sonata for Two Pianos in 

D major, K448; Schubert’s Fantasie in f 

minor for piano four hands, Op 940; and 

pieces by Vivaldi, Debussy, and Strauss. 

The pair perform at the Studio for Performing 

Arts Recital Hall at State College 

of Florida on April 16 at 7:30 pm. 

Single ticket: $40. 

The April concerts conclude at the 

Fischer/Weisenborne residence with 

Shannon Lee, violin and Ying Li, piano 

on April 28 and April 29 at 4:00 p.m. The 

first place winners of Artist Series Concerts’ 

2017 and 2018 international violin 

and piano competitions join forces for 

this spectacular soirée program. 

Lee made her solo debut with the Dallas 

Symphony at age 12. Since then, she has 

been a prize winner in the Sendai Competition 

in Japan, the Queen Elisabeth 

Competition in Belgium, and the Shanghai 

Isaac Stern Competition. 

Li won first place of Young Concert 

Artists 2021 Susan Wadsworth International 

Auditions, and recently made 

her Carnegie Hall and Kennedy Center 

recital debuts. Single ticket: $60. 

For tickets and more information, visit 

ArtistSeriesConcerts.org or call 

(941) 306-1202. 



Sarah 

Cartwright 

Chief Curator at The Ringling Museum 

She’s the Chief 

Curator and 

Ulla R. Searing 

Curator of 

Collections at The 

Ringling having joined 

the museum in 2013. 

She’s the first person 

to hold the title of chief 

curator at the museum 

in more than a decade, 

responsible for the 

museum’s collections 

of European and 

American paintings, 

sculpture and works 

on paper from 

Antiquity to 1900 CE. 


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ast year, she was promoted to 

Chief Curator and 

Ulla R. Searing Curator 

of Collections 

at The Ringling. 

According to the Ringling, Sarah’s 

promotion makes her the first person to 

hold the title of chief curator at the museum 

in more than a decade. She’ll still 

be the Ulla R. Searing Curator of Collections, 

a position she has held since 2017. 

And, she’ll also continue to be responsible 

for the museum’s collections 

of European and American paintings, 

sculpture and works on paper from Antiquity 

to 1900 CE. According to a Ringling 

press release, “During her tenure 

as Searing Curator of Collections, Cartwright 

has expanded The Ringling’s 

European collection and has completed 

two parts of a multi-year project to reinstall 

all 21 permanent collection galleries 

of the Museum of Art.” 

A curator curates, but what does that 

actually mean? The Latin root, cura, 

means “to take care” and that’s the 

simple heart of it, though it gets much 

more layered from there. Best to ask 

the expert. 

To curate is “to care for the collection. 

It’s conservation, research and interpretation,” 

she explains. Being part of 

FSU (Florida State University), research, 

Sarah explains, is a big part of her 

job. Every day there are requests from 

scholars or member of the public who 

have questions. And there’s also writing 

for scholarly publications and journals. 

In curating an exhibition, it’s research 

that “underpins” an exhibit. 

And as for curating an exhibition, it’s 

about “how to tell your story through 

the artwork.” And the job also means 

“ensuring [artworks’] longevity” while 

also “making sure as many people as 

possible have access - not just the public.” 

Which means researchers, but can 

also mean lending artwork to other museums 

for their exhibits. Interestingly, 

when art objects are loaned out from 

The Ringling and sent to other museums, 

Sarah travels with the artwork to 

oversee the process. 

Part of her research has been the letters 

that John Ringling wrote. Though 

there aren’t many, they suggest a person 

who, she has found, “educated himself. 

He was building a museum and was 

thinking what he wanted to acquire.” 

She and other curators “are often 

shocked at how monumental and 

expansive Ringling’s letters are. His 

letters reveal as well that he knew what 

he wanted and no one told him what 

to do.”Ringling exhibitions are often 

scheduled three to four years out. 

Sometimes the museum has traveling 

exhibitions on display and sometimes 

an exhibit will be produced by The 

Ringling. There are seven curators at 

The Ringling, four of whom report to 

Sarah and, she emphasizes, planning 

exhibitions is a group decision involving 

not just herself and other curators, 

but also the museum’s executive director 

and the collections staff and “has to 

be a joint process.” 

Professionally, she “cut her teeth” 

in Italy back in 2002 while at NYU and 

working on Villa La Pietra, a renaissance 

villa in the hills outside Florence 

that was bequeathed to the university. 

Sarah did a complete reinstall (which 

also means a deinstall was done first) 

of the large collection. “It took a lot of 

management skills, dealing with the 

government, artists, an advisory committee, 

architects - lots of stakeholders,” 

she explains. And you’re doing it 

all in a foreign country in a different 

language. 

Sarah’s background also includes 

working at the Metropolitan Museum 

of Art in New York City. In 2010, Sarah 

came back to Sarasota and taught art 

history at Ringling College. 

She arrived at The Ringling in 2013 as 

a postdoctoral curatorial research fellow. 

She then took on the role of Grants 

Administrator in The Ringling’s Development 

department, raising more than 

$1.5 million in three years in support of 

exhibitions, conservation, and general 

operations. She brought a wealth of experience 

to The Ringling. “I understood 

budgets, fundraising, cultivating members 

and donors —the big picture.” 

In 2017, when The Ringling started 

an international search for the Ulla R. 

Searing Curator of Collections, she applied 

for the position and was selected. 

So a curator is first and foremost 

well-educated. Sarah has an M.A. and 

Ph.D. in Art History from the Institute 

of Fine Arts at New York University. 

But a career as a curator has to start 

somewhere. 

Maybe it goes back to when Sarah’s 

mother frequently took her to The 

Ringling. Though she has studied and 

worked in New York and Italy, Sarah is 

totally local. She grew up in Fort Myers, 

moved to Sarasota, and attended Pine 

View School where she took advanced 

placement art history that involved 

studying at The Ringling. 

She says she was “so lucky to have 

grown up here. Every kid should be 

able to have these opportunities.” 

Studying art is learning “what it is to 

be human and it makes a difference in 

people’s lives.” 

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travel feature 

The National Museum of Women 

in the Arts in DC 

The world’s first major museum solely dedicated to 

championing women artists 

Just 11% of all acquisitions at prominent 

American museums over the past 

decade were of work by women artists 

according to Artnet News 

The 

National 

Museum 

of Women 

in the 

Arts 

reopened 

last fall 

after a 

two-year 

renovation. 

Their 

historic 

home is 

at 1250 

New York 

Avenue 

in Washington, 

D.C. 

Niki de 

Saint 

Phalle’s 

Pregnant 

Nana (1995) 

greets visitors 

in the new collection 

galleries. 

Photo by 

Jennifer 

Hughes 

Amy Sherald’s They call me Redbone but I’d rather 

be Strawberry Shortcake is part of the permanent 

collection. 

The National Museum of Women 

in the Arts (NMWA)—the 

world’s first major museum 

solely dedicated to championing 

women artists—reopened 

last fall after a two-year renovation. 

NMWA reimagined its historic home 

at 1250 New York Avenue in Washington, 

D.C., to offer flexible exhibition spaces for 

immersive exhibitions, a versatile studio/ 

classroom area and improved accessibility. 

Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., 

the National Museum of Women in the 

Arts advocates for better representation of 

women artists and serves as a vital center 

for thought leadership, community engagement, 

and social change. Just 11% of all acquisitions 

at prominent American museums 

over the past decade were of work by women 

artists according to Artnet News. 

The Museum has an array of art by women 

across centuries that reinforces that 

women in all time periods created art, they 

just weren’t given attention or as in many 

cases, had to create in private or even in secret 

due to cultural restrictions. 

They also offer rotating exhibitions that 

showcase historic and contemporary artwork. 

The collections feature more than 

5,500 works from the 16th century to today 

created by more than 1,000 artists 

Closed for construction since August 2021, 

NMWA has transformed its landmark 1908 

Classical Revival building with improvements 

to its façade, interior spaces and infrastructure. 

Their inaugural exhibitions and 

remixed collection installation highlight new 

opportunities: nearly 40% of the works on 

view are being exhibited for the first time at 

NMWA, including nearly 70 works from the 

museum’s collection. 

Visitors experience art from the moment 

terial, which she combined with imagery 

from traditional Chinese arts. 

These elements comprise her powerful 

portraits of laborers, refugees, orphaned 

children, women soldiers, and sex workers. 

Liu monumentalizes these downtrodden and 

oft-forgotten individuals in history, whom 

she called “spirit ghosts,” as mythic figures 

on the grander scale of history painting. 

Presenting selections from the museum’s 

extensive collection of works by the artist, 

Hung Liu: Making History highlights the 

array of techniques that Liu used to create 

her poignant portraits, including collage, 

layered colors and motifs, and screens of 

drip marks that she described as a “veil of 

tears.” The exhibition marks the inaugural 

presentation of Liu’s major paintings Summer 

with Cynical Fish (2014) and Winter 

with Cynical Fish (2014), works acquired 

by NMWA just prior to the start of the muthey 

enter the building. 

The rotunda features a 

dramatic six-foot-tall 

hanging sculpture by 

Joana Vasconcelos, as 

well as paintings by 

self-taught American 

artist Clementine Hunter 

and Indigenous Australian 

artist Audrey 

Morton Kngwarreye. 

On view in the Great 

Hall are a series of 

black-and-white prom 

portrait photographs 

by Mary Ellen Mark 

and large-scale architectural 

photographs 

of spaces by Candida 

Höfer. Portraits and 

self-portraits of women 

from across the centuries fill the mezzanine, 

with Eva Gonzalès’s Portrait d’une jeune 

femme (Portrait of a Young Woman) (1873– 

74), Frida Kahlo’s iconic Self-Portrait Dedicated 

to Leon Trotsky (1937) and Zanele 

Muholi’s photograph Katlego Mashiloane 

and Nosipho Lavuta, Ext. 2, Lakeside, Johannesburg 

(2007), among others. 

On display is Hung Liu: Making History, 

running to October 20, 2024. Chinese-born 

American artist Hung Liu (1948 to 2021) 

transformed her canvases and paper surfaces 

into memorial sites for the women 

and children who she represented. 

Growing up during Mao Zedong’s Cultural 

Revolution in China, she toiled in forced 

labor and trained as a painter before immigrating 

to California in 1984, where she 

continued her art education. In the 1990s, 

Liu discovered historical black-and-white 

photographs that became her source ma- 

Hung Liu: Winter With Cynical Fish is on display in 

special exhibition of her work. 

Frida Kahlo, Self-Portrait Dedicated to Leon 

Trotsky, 1937 is also a part of the permanent 

collection. 

seum’s renovation project. 

Another exhibition, Impressive: Antoinette 

Bouzonnet-Stella, focuses on the 17th-century 

French artist’s series of 25 prints from 

1675, The Entrance of the Emperor Sigismond 

into Mantua, installed in a unique 

wrap-around presentation. Both exhibitions 

are on view through October 20, 2024. 

Tickets: 

Timed tickets are required and 

are available online at nmwa.org/. 

Admission is $16 for adults, $13 for 

visitors ages 70 and over. Admission 

is free the first Sunday and second 

Wednesday of each month. 

Museum Address: 

1250 New York Ave., NW, Washington, DC 

The location is great and easy to access. 

It’s near lots of Metro stops, museums, 

hotels and restaurants. Use the goDCgo 

interactive map to plan your trip via bus, 

metro, bicycle rental, and more. 



Intimate musical experiences. 

Season 28 | Stars Ascending 

A diverse range of concerts featuring emerging and accomplished 

classical, chamber, jazz, and pop artists from around the globe. 

Arts Advocates’ 

April Programs and Events 

Including 

artist Elisabeth Trostli’s exhibit and art talk 

Arts Advocates has a series 

of April programs 

and events, including member 

artist Elisabeth Trostli’s 

exhibit and art talk, a tour 

of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, a 

luncheon program at Sarasota Yacht Club 

with guest speaker Georgia Court of Bookstore1Sarasota, 

and a mixed media collage 

workshop. Registration is required at Arts- 

Advocates.org. 

Arts Advocates member artists exhibit 

monthly in the Arts Advocates Gallery, 

located in the Crossings at Siesta Key mall, 

3501 S. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota. Shows 

runs from the first Saturday 

to the last Saturday 

of each month. 

Elisabeth Trostli’s 

show, “Fierce and 

Fabulous,” will be on 

exhibit from April 6-27, 

Saturdays only from 

2-4 p.m. Trostli uses a 

creative digital painting 

process to incorporate 

detailed visual references 

and embellishments 

into her works. The 

paintings in this exhibition 

are inspired by 

Trostli’s travels; vintage 

scientific engravings; 

Steampunk; Pre-Raphaelite 

and Baroque 

sources; Celtic, Asian 

and African mythology; 

Medieval knights and 

armor; tribal textiles; 

and Victorian jewelry. 

Admission is free. 

On April 9, from 4-6 

p.m. in the Arts Advocates 

Gallery, Trostli 

presents the art talk, 

“From Digital Painting 

to AI.” She will discuss 

and demonstrate her artistic 

process in the creation 

of her work on the 

computer. Surrounded 

by unique images of intricately 

detailed fantasy 

portraits of women warriors, 

geishas, divas, and 

angels, she will highlight 

the possibilities of digital 

artistry. Free for Arts Advocates members; 

$5 for non-members. 

The “Behind the Curtain: Exploring the 

Van Wezel from the Art to the Stage” 

tour on April 15 from 1:30-3 p.m. is presented 

in partnership with the Van Wezel 

Performing Arts Hall. The art in the Van Wezel, 

777 N. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, was 

created by noted Florida artists and is on 

loan from Arts Advocates. A docent leads a 

tour of the paintings and sculptures including 

those by Robert Chase, William Hartman, 

Eugene White, Ben Stahl, Thornton Utz, 

▲ Elisabeth Trostli, Flora 

Angel ▼ Susan Hurwitch 

mixed media collage 

Frank Colson, Dean Mitchell, and others. 

Participants then step onto the stage where 

a Van Wezel guide shares stories and anecdotes 

about the colorful world of show 

business. Tickets are $15 per person and 

can be purchased at the Van Wezel box office 

or by calling (941) 263-6799. Proceeds 

benefit the education/outreach programs of 

Arts Advocates and the Van Wezel. 

Arts Advocates’ monthly luncheon programs, 

which feature speakers discussing 

local arts-related topics, are held at the 

Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling 

Blvd., Sarasota. Bookstore1Sarasota owner 

Georgia Court and 

assistant manager/director 

of programming 

Bryn Durgin present 

Banned Books 

– What People are 

Reading on April 18 

from 11:00 a.m. to 1 

p.m. One of the store’s 

book clubs focuses on 

banned books and is 

“dedicated to reading 

and protecting the most 

important and threatened 

books of our generation.” 

$45 for Arts 

Advocates members; 

$50 for non-members. 

Lunch is included. 

Artist Susan Hurwitch 

will lead an intro 

to mixed media and 

collage basics workshop 

on April 27, 

12:00-2:30 p.m. in the 

Arts Advocates Gallery. 

Using floral imagery, this 

fast-paced workshop will 

have each participant 

creating one 6x9-inch 

artwork. Cost is $45. Students 

should bring paint 

brushes, acrylic paint, and 

a plastic tablecloth; all 

other supplies will be provided 

by the instructor. 

The Arts Advocates’ collection 

of Sarasota Art 

Colony and Highwaymen 

works is on permanent 

display in the Arts 

Advocates Gallery. The 

gallery is open every Saturday from 2-4 

p.m.; admission is free and written information 

is available for self-guided tours. 

To learn more about or become a member of 

Arts Advocates, or to register for programs 

and events, visit ArtsAdvocates.org. 

Duo Beaux Arts 

Pianists Catherine Lan and Tao Lin 

April 16, 7:30 pm 

Studio for Performing Arts Recital 

Hall at State College of Florida 

This husband-and-wife team of 

internationally renowned pianists will 

perform a recital of works for piano “four 

hands” and two pianos, including Mozart’s 

Sonata for Two Pianos in D major, K448; 

Schubert’s Fantasie in f minor for piano 

four hands, Op 940; and pieces by Vivaldi, 

Debussy, and Strauss. 

Shannon Lee, violin and Ying Li, piano 

April 28 & 29, 4:00 pm • Fischer/Weisenborne Residence 

First place winners of Artist Series Concerts’ 2017 and 2018 international violin 

and piano competitions join forces for a spectacular program. Both musicians 

have won multiple awards and Li recently made her Carnegie Hall 

and Kennedy Center recital debuts. 

ArtistSeriesConcerts.org | 941-306-1202 

This project is supported in part by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County; Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council of Arts and Culture and the State of Florida (Section 286.25 Florida Statutes); 

The Exchange; Gulf Coast Community Foundation; National Endowment for the Arts; the Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues; and the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. 

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your healthier health you 

Craniosacral Therapy Can Be Life Changing 

CST treats the whole body physically, physiologically, mentally, emotionally and energetically 

Clients come to me because they are in physical 

pain such as neck, back, pain and TMJ as well as 

for chronic headaches and migraines. 

Pain and stress caused by 

shortened Fascia 

Fascia (strong connective tissue) encases all 

our muscles, organs, brain and spinal cord. 

Whenever fascia shortens any place in the 

body, the entire network of fascia creates an 

increased tension affecting the functioning 

of our physical body as well as our organs, 

our brain and spinal cord. 

Our body is the history of every major 

trauma we have experienced physically and 

emotionally beginning with birth issues, falls, 

head trauma, car accidents, childhood abuse 

issues, death, divorce and other emotional 

issues. Our body tries to minimize each trauma 

by shortening fascia to isolate the energy 

coming into the body from that trauma. 

Shortened fascia results in pain, loss of mobility 

and range of motion, organs becoming 

less efficient and with parts of the brain and 

spinal cord becoming stressed. 

To keep the brain functioning, the body 

transfers some of your functional work play 

energy (7:00 AM-10:00 PM) to the brain resulting 

in less energy to make it through each 

day. As we age, the accumulation of all the 

tightened fascia, from every major trauma 

in life, begins to restrict every aspect of our 

body’s functions resulting in pain, loss of mobility, 

mis-functioning organs, loss of energy, 

as well as our brain losing some its sharpness. 

How Craniosacral 

Therapy Works 

The Craniosacral Therapist creates a safe 

place, with gentle holding techniques, that 

engages your body’s ability to self correct, 

reorganize and heal itself with the release 

of some of that tightened fascia during 

each session. As the Craniosacral Therapist 

engages your body, you will feel fascia releasing. 

As the fascia releases, pain begins to 

decrease, range of motion and mobility improve, 

organs begin functioning better and 

with less stress on the brain feels, it returns 

the energy it borrowed at the time of each 

trauma resulting in an immediate increase in 

your energy levels. Rarely does anyone leave 

from my first session not feeling better. 

Short Leg Syndrome 

Eighty-five percent of my clients have one 

of their legs pulled up 1/2 to 1 by shortened 

fascia. The tension from short leg syndrome 

on the sacrum (5 fused vertebrae at bottom 

of the spine) is transferred up the dural tube 

that encases the spinal cord into the lower 

and upper back, the neck, the cranium and 

The physical stress in bodies caused by shortened 

fascia (connective tissue) shuts down 

energy flows to certain organs. Short leg syndrome 

by ½ to 1 in (where one leg is pulled up 

by shortened fascia) shuts down energy flow to 

the spleen (an important part of your immune 

system) and the small and large intestine. With 

the release of that shortened fascia, energy returns 

to these organs. 

the brain. Headaches, migraines, TMJ and 

neck problems can originate from the fascial 

stress in the sacrum. 

Releasing this sacral stress increases energy 

in the bladder, sex organs, kidneys and 

the chakras as well as releasing major stress 

in the upper part of the body. 

Cause of Shallow Breathing 

A great majority of the clients who come to 

me for various problems are also shallow 

breathers. Fascial stress in the diaphragm 

restricts the depth of breathing by restricting 

energy flow to the lungs, the pericardium 

and the heart. With the release of fascial diaphragm 

restriction, the client immediately 

starts breathing deeply and energy is restored 

to the pericardium and the heart. 

Shoulder blades that are cemented to the 

body also restricts how much the rib cage can 

open and thereby also restricting depth of 

breath. Without proper breathing, your cells 

do not get enough oxygen. Everyone, especially 

people suffering from bronchitis, asthma 

and COPD as well as shallow breathing can 

benefit when the fascial stress is released. 

Specialized Training 

to work with Brain 

Dysfunctions 

Just as the body physically gets stressed from 

physical and emotional trauma, the functioning 

of the brain is also affected by fascial stress. For 

our brains to remain healthy, we need dynamic 

production of craniosacral fluid which performs 

the important function of bringing nourishment 

to all the cells in the brain and spinal 

cord as well as cleansing all the metabolic 

wastes given off by those same cells. 

Once the craniosacral fluid cleanses these 

metabolic wastes, efficient drainage of these 

metabolic wastes into the lymph system is 

absolutely necessary. Research has shown, 

that at night, craniosacral fluid cleanses amyloid 

plaques from the brain. If the drainage 

is inefficient, then the brain is being bathed 

in a toxic slurry. How does 15 or 20 years of 

your brain being bathed in a toxic slurry 

affect you: senile dementia, Parkinson’s, 

Alzheimer’s and other brain dysfunctions? 

A Craniosacral Therapist, who has received 

training in working with the brain, can reverse 

that stress on the brain that eventually can 

result in those brain dysfunctions. As we all 

know, the proper functioning of the body is 

dependent on a healthy functioning brain. 

Babies and Children can benefit 

■ Our little boy Leo, four years of age, had a 

difficult birth and at 7 months was put on antibiotics 

for an ear infection and as a result developed 

c-diff. His development came to a stop. 

At 3 years, with the help of an OT, he started 

to walk and talk. In spite of the improvements, 

he was unable to answer questions and his 

communication skills were very poor. Leo 

had very poor muscle tone, a lot of stress in 

his body and physical activities such walking, 

jumping and climbing were difficult for him. 

Beginning with the first session with Terry, 

he began showing improvement and with each 

following session. Everyone from his teachers 

to his grandparents noticed an increase in his 

■ “I was in awful pain and the 

MRI showed 2 pinched nerves 

and stenosis. I scheduled surgery. 

My daughter suggested Craniosacral therapy. 

After only 2 visits the pain was reduced to 

advanced craniosacral about 80% and therapy I canceled the surgery. I went 

for a 3rd visit and I am about 90% better.” 

■ “Simply Amazing! One visit was all it took for 

Terry to relieve 85% of my year long, nagging 

(sometimes severe) neck/shoulder tightness/ 

pain!! My breathing improved tremendously.” 

physical strength, as well as improvements in 

comprehension, speech and communication 

skills. For the first time, he started participating 

in class lessons and interacting with his 

classmates. Terry has made a huge impact on 

getting Leo to a place a little boy should be at 

age four. We cannot thank Terry enough. 

■ Terry’s treatment helped our 6 week old 

baby boy from recent hospitalization into 

the first series of healthy bowel movements 

when seemingly nothing could help. Our son 

was able to latch onto the breast and for the 

first time completed his feeding. He was much 

calmer after working with Terry. 

■ “He was able to relieve tension that I have 

been carrying around for 15 years or more. 

I left his office table with more energy than I 

have had in years.” 

■ “I began working with him because I was 

dealing with anxieties, depression and lots of 

emotional pain inside and out. You don’t realized 

how much stress can cause damage to 

your body, mind and soul. I can say Terry was 

a big help.” 

Terrence Grywinski 

of Advanced 

Craniosacral Therapy, 

B.A., B.ED., LMT #MA 6049 

Testimonials from Clients 

SOURCE: 

■ Terrence Grywinski of Advanced Craniosacral Therapy, 

B.A., B.ED., LMT #MA 6049. Terry has specialized in Craniosacral 

Therapy since 1994 when he began his training at the Upledger 

Institute. Described by his teachers, clients and colleagues 

as a “gifted healer”, Terry’s intuitive sense and healing energy 

provides immediate and lasting relief from injury, pain, mobility 

issues as well as dysfunctions of the body and the brain. Part 

of Terry’s ongoing education, he has completed 4 craniosacral 

brain and peripheral nervous system classes which enables him 

to work at a cellular 

level and with brain 

dysfunctions. 

Call 941-321-8757 

for more information, 

Google Advanced 

Craniosacral 

Therapy. 

■ “On a recent vacation to Siesta Key, I re-injured 

my back. I found Terry online. I can say 

with complete joy that was the best decision 

I made in the history of my back pain. I have 

sought many modalities and visit a CST regularly 

and never have I had such a healing in 

my entire body. 

After 3 sessions, I made a 16-hour drive 

home with no pain or discomfort in my entire 

body. Unbelievable. My body has a sense of 

moving freely and that is completely new. I’m 

advanced craniosacral therapy 

so grateful to Terry for his knowledge, for his 

sensitivity to my needs and his kind generosity 

in healing my body. I will see him when I return 

next year.” 

■ “I am a snowbird who spends 7 months 

in Sarasota. I have had back problems for 25 

years. Terry’s techniques have led to a great 

deal of release and relief in areas that have 

been problematic. I have been seeing him over 

the years when my body says ”it’s time”. Usually 

after a few sessions, I can tell a huge difference.” 

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Key Chorale Chamber Singers 

and Modern Marimba present: 

Light & Gold on April 7 at 

St. Boniface Episcopal Church 

Join Key Chorale Chamber 

Singers and Modern Marimba 

for Light & Gold: Luminous 

and Lavish settings by 

Eric Whitacre & Morten Lauridsen 

on Sunday, April 7th at 5 PM. 

They will present some of Whitacre 

and Lauridsen’s most hauntingly beautiful 

works full of lush harmonies. Hear 

the Florida premiere of Whitacre’s 

Child of Wonder and Lauridsen’s masterpiece 

inspired by light, Lux Aeterna. 

Featured Guest Artist will be Key 

Chorale’s Principal Keyboardist Glenn 

Priest on organ and piano. He will also 

be showcased in a fiery and festive 

Toccata by American composer and 

organist John Weaver and as organ soloist 

for Lux Aeterna. 

Eric Whitacre and Morten Lauridsen 

are two of the most popular and performed 

choral composers of our time. 

Lauridsen’s works have been recorded 

on more than 200 CDs, including 5 

Gammy nominations, and he has been 

named an ‘American Choral Master’ by 

the National Endowment for the Arts 

and received the National Medal for the 

Arts in 2007. 

Each of the five connected movements 

in this choral cycle Lux Aeterna contains 

references to “Light,” assembled 

from various sacred Latin texts. He 

composed this work as a universal 

symbol of illumination at all levels - 

spiritual, artistic, and intellectual. 

Morten Lauridsen’s premiere of Lux 

Aeterna in 1997 sent ripples throughout 

the choral world. Its influence on 

choral music and musicians has been 

felt far and wide, cementing its status 

as one of the most performed works of 

the late 20th century. 

One of Lux Aeterna’s biggest fans went 

on to become a choral rock star in his 

own right, Eric Whitacre. Whitacre is 

a Grammy-winning composer and conductor. 

His pioneering of the “Virtual 

Choir” idiom has led to the release of 

6 virtual choirs with a more than 5 million 

combined views worldwide. 

“His music connects in very powerful 

ways, his use of harmony is always 

spine-tingling, always drawing the listener 

in,” said Maestro Joseph Caulkins. 

“These two composers did more 

to change the course of choral music 

than anyone in the last 100 years. 

Their music speaks to us in ways that 

are at times spiritual, emotional and 

deeply intimate. And, sometimes, all 

three at once.” 

The Chamber Singers will be joined by 

four musicians from Modern Marimba, 

founded in 2019 by Tihda Vongkoth. 

She loved playing marimba in high 

school and college, but there were 

only a few opportunities to hear mallet 

percussion music outside of academia 

and large institutions. After realizing 

a need for curating performances and 

educational programs by and for all 

types of marginalized people, she organized 

a house concert in Sarasota for 

her neighbors, friends, and the general 

public and now they present numerous 

concerts in the region. 

“During the pandemic, I heard several 

transcriptions of Whitacre’s music 

played by marimba quartets,” said 

Maestro Caulkins. “I was stunned by 

the colors and how well his choral 

music translated to the marimba. It 

was a stunner and I wanted to share 

some of these transcriptions with our 

audiences. I know it will be especially 

captivating in the ear-bathing acoustics 

of St. Boniface Church, perfect for this 

kind of music.” 

The final work of the program will 

combine marimba quartet and Chamber 

Singers performing Whitacre’s hauntingly 

beautiful Sleep, one of the most 

moving choral pieces ever written. 

Concert Details: 

St. Boniface Episcopal Church 

5615 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key 

Date: April 7 at 5 p.m. 

Tickets $35-$45 



Sarasota Film Festival April 5-14 

Festival to Close with Steve Buscemi’s The Listener 

The Sarasota Film Festival (SFF) 

includes live and in-person screenings 

and events that will take place 

across Sarasota April 5-14. SFF 

will feature a lineup of films that includes 

64 features, with 4 World Premieres, 

1 North American Premiere, 7 East Coast 

Premieres, and 24 Florida Premieres; and 

81 short films. 

Bull Street 

The festival will open on April 5 with the 

East Coast Premiere of Lynn Dow’s BULL 

STREET, a stirring drama where a South 

Carolina small-town lawyer faces local 

politics, an unwavering judge and the 

town’s past in the battle of her life when 

her estranged father’s family tries to evict 

her and her grandmother from the only 

home she has ever known, starring Loretta 

Devine and Amy Madigan. Dow, Madigan, 

and additional cast members will attend 

the festival in-person and participate in a 

post-screening talkback. 

The Listener 

On Saturday, April 13, the festival will 

close with a special presentation of Steve 

Buscemi’s THE LISTENER, a film that is 

a stirring testament to the power of empathy, 

following a crisis hotline worker 

(Tessa Thompson) enduring the pressures 

of her job. Director Steve Buscemi will 

attend and participate in a Q&A conversation 

following the film’s Florida Premiere 

screening. 

This Film is about 

The Black Keys 

Jeff Dupre’s THIS IS A FILM ABOUT 

THE BLACK KEYS, which examines the 

story of Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney’s 

journey from a basement jamming 

session in Akron, Ohio to rock ’n’ roll super-stardom, 

will play its Florida Premiere 

as the festival’s Documentary Centerpiece 

film on Friday, April 12. 

The Man in the White Van 

Narrative Centerpiece 

screenings include the 

April 12 East Coast Premiere 

of Warren Skeels’ 

THE MAN IN THE WHITE VAN, a thriller 

inspired by a true story, diving into the 

eerie underbelly of a seemingly idyllic 

1974 Florida town and following the harrowing 

experience of young Annie Williams, 

whose carefree existence is turned 

upside down as she becomes stalked by 

an ominous man in a white van, starring 

Sean Astin and Madison Wolfe; and the 

April 13 Florida Premiere of Ethan Berger’s 

THE LINE, a chilling, nuanced thriller 

exploring the moral ambiguity of loyalty to 

tradition, as seen through a college sophomore 

in the throes 

of fraternity culture, 

starring Alex Wolff, 

Austin Abrams, Lewis 

Pullman, Halle Bailey, 

and Angus Cloud. Star 

and Sarasota-native 

Austin Abrams will 

attend the festival and 

receive SFF’s Rising 

Star Award. 

Daughters 

SFF’s Spotlight presentations include 

screenings of Natalie Rae and Angela Patton’s 

DAUGHTERS, a documentary 

distributed by 

Netflix and following four 

young girls as they prepare 

for a special Daddy Daughter 

Dance with their incarcerated 

fathers, as part 

of a unique fatherhood 

program in a Washington, 

D.C.; Jeff Zimbalist’s HOW 

TO COME ALIVE WITH 

NORMAN MAILER, following 

the life and times 

of an American icon, from his formative 

years in Brooklyn through his career as a 

preeminent cultural voice; Dheeraj Akolkar’s 

LIV ULLMAN: THE ROAD LESS 

TRAVELED, a delightful, engaging portrait 

of one our greatest actresses, brimming 

with intimate memories and profound 

reflections on her hopes, fears, grief, 

rejections, dreams 

pursued, and 

lessons learned; 

Dawn Porter’s 

LUTHER: NEV- 

ER TOO MUCH, 

an emotional and 

jubilant celebration 

of Luther 

Vandross and his 

music that resonates 

with evocative 

power; Stephen Soucy’s MERCHANT 

IVORY, telling the story behind the longest 

running partnership in the history of cinema 

that has produced such classics as 

Howard’s End, A Room with a View and 

The Remains of the Day; Amei Wallach’s 

TAKING VENICE, exploring the true story 

behind the rumors that, at the height of 

the Cold War, the U.S. government rigged 

the most influential art exhibition, the 

Venice Biennale, so that their chosen artist, 

Robert Rauschenberg, could win the 

festival’s Grand Prize; and Noah Pritzker’s 

feature comedy EX-HUSBANDS, following 

a middle aged man overwhelmed by his 

pending divorce and the declining health 

of his father, starring Griffin Dunne and 

Roseanne Arquette. 

SFF will host an April 6 showcase of all 

five Live Action Short Film nominees at 

the 96th Academy Awards, which include 

Misan Harriman’s THE AFTER, Vincent 

René-Lortie’s INVINCIBLE; Lasse Lyskjær 

Noer’s KNIGHT OF FORTUNE; 

Nazrin Choudhury’s RED, WHITE AND 

BLUE; and the recipient of this year’s 

award: Wes Anderson’s THE WONDER- 

FUL STORY OF HENRY 

SUGAR, which marked 

the first Oscar win for Anderson. 

On April 12, the 

festival will also screen 

short film THE LAST RE- 

PAIR SHOP, the winner 

of the Academy Award for 

Best Documentary Short 

Film at the 96th Academy 

Awards. Editor Nick 

Garnham Wright will attend 

and participate in a 

post-screening Q&A. 

The Narrative Feature Competition will 

showcase GOODBYE JULIA, directed by 

Mohamed Kordofani; THE NATURE OF 

LOVE, directed by Monia Chokri; Utopia’s 

PET SHOP DAYS, directed by Olmo Schnabel; 

RED ROOMS, directed by Pascal 

Plante; and Magnolia Pictures’ THELMA, 

directed by Josh Margolin. 

The Documentary Feature Competition 

will include A HOUSE IS NOT A DIS- 

CO, directed by Brian J. Smith; INTO 

THE SPOTLIGHT: THE JAKE ILARDI 

STORY, directed by Liam Jordan; PORCE- 

LAIN WAR, directed by Brendan Bellomo 

& Slava Leontyev; SONGS OF EARTH, 

directed by Margreth Olin; and National 

Geographic Documentary Films’ SUGAR- 

CANE, directed by Emily Kassie and Julian 

Brave NoiseCat. 

Independent Visions competition will feature 

ART THIEF, directed by Arthur Egeli; 

BLOOM, directed by Mark Totte; CUR- 

RY SCENT, directed by Christa Boarini; 

GOOD BAD THINGS, directed by Shane 

D. Stanger; and PUDDYSTICKS, directed 

by Megan Seely. 

Narrative films in the 2024 slate also include: 

Janis Pugh’s CHUCK CHUCK 

BABY, Jason Cannon’s CLOWNS LIKE 

ME, Joanna Arnow’s THE FEELING 

THAT THE TIME FOR DOING SOME- 

THING HAS PASSED, Agnieszka Holland’s 

GREEN BORDER, Vito Trupiano’s 

HELLBENT ON BOOGIE, Natalie Mac- 

Mahon’s THE MEANING OF A RITUAL, 

Ken Loach’s THE OLD OAK, and Matt 

Winn’s THE TROUBLE WITH JESSICA. 

Alongside the film programming, this 

year’s SFF features nightly events, including 

an Opening Night Party at the Sarasota 

Modern, Closing Night reception at 

Sage, filmmaker receptions at Art Avenue 

Gallery, and the Fantastical Friday Night 

Street Party in the Rosemary District on 

April 12, produced by SRQ Beats. 

This year’s festival poster artist is Diana 

Dubrovska. Dubrovska, a Ukrainian artist 

who found refuge in California after 

fleeing the horrors of war, brings her experiences 

to life through her vibrant and 

dynamic artwork. 

This year’s festival will also feature a new 

partnership with USA Swimming, formed 

in conjunction with the Open Water National 

Championships taking place May 3-5 

at Sarasota’s Nathan Benderson Park. SFF 

will welcome athletes and representatives 

from USA Swimming at this year’s edition 

to receive a donation directly supporting 

the USA Swimming Foundation, which 

aims to provide the opportunity for every 

person in the US to learn to swim. 

Tickets: www.sarasotafilmfestival.com/ 

Festival Highlights 

• OPENING NIGHT FILM: 

BULL STREET 

In this stirring drama, a South Carolina 

small-town lawyer (Malynda Hale) faces 

local politics, an unwavering judge (Amy 

Madigan) and the town’s past in the battle 

of her life when her estranged father’s family 

tries to evict her and her grandmother 

(Loretta Devine) from the only home she 

has ever known. 

• CLOSING NIGHT FILM: THE 

LISTENER 

In this stirring testament to the power of 

empathy, Tessa Thompson (in a masterful 

performance) plays a crisis hotline worker 

enduring the pressures of her job in this 

new film from director Steve Buscemi. 

• NARRATIVE CENTERPIECE 

FILMS: THE LINE 

This chilling, nuanced thriller explores the 

moral ambiguity of loyalty to tradition, 

continued on next page ▶ 


sarasota film festival continued 

as seen through a college sophomore in 

the throes of fraternity culture. Featuring 

Sarasota native Austin Abrams. 

• THE MAN IN THE WHITE VAN 

Inspired by a true story, The Man in the 

White Van dives into the eerie underbelly 

of a seemingly idyllic 1974 Florida town 

and follows the harrowing experience of 

young Annie Williams, whose carefree 

existence is turned upside down as she 

becomes stalked by an ominous man in a 

white van. 

DOCUMENTARY 

CENTERPIECE FILM 

• THIS IS A FILM ABOUT 

THE BLACK KEYS 

The story of Dan Auerbach and Patrick 

Carney’s journey from a basement jamming 

session in Akron, Ohio to rock ’n’ roll 

super-stardom. 

SPOTLIGHT FEATURES 

• DAUGHTERS 

Four young girls prepare for a special Daddy 

Daughter Dance with their incarcerated 

fathers, as part of a unique fatherhood program 

in a Washington, D.C., jail. 

• EX-HUSBANDS 

This poignant comedy follows a middle 

aged man overwhelmed by his pending divorce 

and the declining health of his father, 

who plans a getaway to Tulum, insistent 

he knows nothing of his son’s plans to be 

there at the same time for a bachelor party. 

• HOW TO COME ALIVE WITH 

NORMAN MAILER 

The life and times of an American icon, from 

his formative years in Brooklyn through his 

career as a preeminent cultural voice. 

• LIV ULLMANN: 

A ROAD LESS TRAVELED 

A delightful, engaging portrait of one our 

greatest actresses, brimming with intimate 

memories and profound reflections on her 

hopes, fears, grief, rejections, dreams pursued, 

and lessons learned. 

• LUTHER: NEVER TOO MUCH 

Luther Vandross 

started 

his career supporting 

David 

Bowie, Roberta 

Flack, Bette 

Midler, and 

more. His undeniable 

talent 

earned platinum 

records 

and accolades, 

but he struggled 

to break 

out beyond the R&B charts. Intensely driven, 

he overcame personal and professional 

challenges to secure his place amongst the 

greatest vocalists in history. 

• MERCHANT IVORY 

The story behind the longest running partnership 

in the history of cinema that has 

produced such classics as Howard’s End, 

A Room with a View and The Remains of 

the Day. 

• TAKING VENICE 

This fun caper movie explores the true story 

behind the rumors that, at the height of 

the Cold War, the U.S. government rigged 

the most influential art exhibition, the Venice 

Biennale, so that their chosen artist, 

Robert Rauschenberg, could win the festival’s 

Grand Prize. Told with an extraordinary 

cast of experts and insiders from the 

art world with extensive archival footage. 

Here are some films WCW thought you 

might want to know about. Go online 

for the full schedule. 

NARRATIVE 

FEATURE COMPETITION 

• GOODBYE JULIA 

Amid the social and political upheaval 

of Sudan in 2005, two women’s disparate 

lives become unexpectedly entangled in 

tragedy, friendship and lies in this moving 

tale. 

• THELMA 

When 93-year-old 

Thelma Post (June 

Squibb) gets duped 

by a phone scammer 

pretending to 

be her grandson, 

she sets out on a 

treacherous quest 

across the city to reclaim 

what was taken 

from her. A thrilling 

and delightful 

story exploring aging, family and autonomy. 

DOCUMENTARY FEATURE 

COMPETITION 

• A HOUSE IS NOT A DISCO 

An intimate and 

humorous film that 

peers into one of 

the world’s only 

“homo-normative” 

communities, the 

island “paradise” of 

Fire Island Pines, 

told through home 

video, archival 

footage, and eccentric 

character portraits 

of the vibrant present. 

• INTO THE SPOTLIGHT: 

THE JAKE ILARDI STORY 

An action-packed look at the highs, lows, 

and injuries Osprey’s Jake Ilardi endures 

on his journey to the US Olympic Skateboard 

team, and his mission within his 

local community to keep their skatepark 

operational and free to the public. 

• PORCELAIN WAR 

Amidst the chaos 

and destruction 

of the brutal 

Russian invasion 

of Ukraine, three 

artists defiantly 

find inspiration 

and beauty as 

they defend their 

culture and their 

country in this 

Sundance Grand 

Jury Prize winner. 

• SUGARCANE 

This Sundance award winner is a gripping 

investigation where unmarked graves at 

an Indian residential school unearth secrets 

below and above ground, igniting 

a reckoning in the lives of survivors and 

their descendants. 

INDEPENDENT VISIONS 

FEATURE COMPETITION 

• CURRY SCENT 

A refreshing tale 

about a Bradenton-based 

Indian 

immigrant family 

desperately grasping 

for the American 

Dream by 

trying to find their 

daughter, Geetha, 

a wealthy match 

before their visas 

run out. 

DOCUMENTARY FEATURES 

• LADY LIKE 

Enrapturing profile of Rex Wheeler, better 

known to the outside world as drag queen 

extraordinaire and Ru Paul’s Drag Race finalist 

Lady Camden, who works with Rex 

to save his inner child after a troubled and 

traumatic childhood. 

• MAKA 

An exploration of 

displacement, identity, 

and belonging 

in following noted 

Cameroon-born 

author Geneviève 

Makaping’s life in 

Italy and perilous 

migration journey. 

A story of a Black 

woman reclaiming 

the narrative and speaking out against the 

media’s representation of immigrants. 

• THE MAMMOTH HUNT 

The incredible story of Lithuanian theater 

director (and now Sarasota resident) Jonas 

Jurašas’ leaving his country in 1968 in 

the wake of a play banned by the Soviets, 

the secret filming of that play and Jurasas’ 

new life in America and eventual return to 

his homeland. 

• SOMEONE LIVES HERE 

A modern-day David and Goliath story, set 

against the backdrop of North America’s 

housing crisis, when a carpenter takes it 

upon himself to build, and make accessible, 

small, life-saving shelters for the unhoused 

residents of Toronto during the 

pandemic. 

• SUSAN FENIGER. FORKED 

The wildly entertaining behind-the-scenes 

story of award-winning celebrity chef Susan 

Feniger on her first solo restaurant and 

her passionate struggle and quest to bring 

global street food under one roof in the 

form of a new L.A. restaurant. 

• UNBROKEN 

The daughter of a Holocaust survivor embarks 

on an international quest to uncover 

answers about the plight of her mother 

and her six siblings who, as mere children, 

escaped Nazi Germany relying solely on 

their own youthful bravado and the kindness 

of German strangers. 

• YOURS IN FREEDOM, 

BILL BAIRD 

Oscar-nominated filmmaker Rebecca 

Cammisa gives us a portrait of Bill Baird, 

who has been called the devil incarnate, 

pervert, CIA agent, saint, the unsung hero 

of the birth control battle and whose decades-long 

fight for women’s right to abortion 

is as relevant as ever. 

SFF FOCUS: ENVIRONMENT 

• COMMON GROUND 

The solution of Regenerative farmers to 

bring soil health across the continent and 

beyond. 105m 

• CONSERVATION ACROSS 

CONTINENTS: MADAGASCAR 

Lemurs are the most unique and most endangered 

primates in the world. This documentary 

film discusses the work of Lemur 

Conservation Foundation in Madagascar 

and Myakka City, Florida. 

• NOCTURNES 

This uniquely immersive Sundance Award 

winner transports us to the mountainous 

forest of the eastern Himalayas, where 

researchers seek to describe and understand 

moth diversity at different elevations 

as a way to urge us all to look more 

closely at the hidden interconnections of 

the natural world. 

• WOMEN OF THE WATERSHED 

A young woman 

journeys to the 

source of the Everglades 

headwaters 

to better understand 

the historic 

challenges of water 

management 

and pollution that 

now threaten this 

fragile ecosystem. 

Along the way she 

meets a new generation of advocates who 

are redefining the balance of women in 

conservation. 

SARASOTA FILMMAKERS 

DOCUMENTARY SHORTS 

• DEAR TAMPA BAY 

Tampa Bay is one of the areas in our nation 

most vulnerable to climate change. 

But Tampa Bay isn’t alone, communities 

across the Gulf coast face similar climate 

impacts. 

• THE FENTANYL PROJECT 

dir. KT Curran (USA), 2024 

The Fentanyl Project is a 26 minute, short 

documentary about the impact of illegal 

fentanyl abuse in Sarasota/Manatee 

counties. 

For more information, visit: https://www. 

sarasotafilmfestival.com/ 



‘Portrait Ukraine: 

Capturing Faces of Resistance 

Amid The Chaos of War’ 

Photography Exhibition set to run 

to April 19 at the Lexow Gallery in Sarasota 

tion will showcase over thirty photographs 

from all three journeys, 

offering viewers a visual narrative 

that reveals the anguish, courage, 

and resilience of individuals facing 

heart-wrenching losses endured by 

countless Ukrainians. The exhibition 

serves as a visual testament to the 

enduring spirit and courage of the 

Ukrainian people. 

The essence of the Portrait 

Ukraine Exhibition lies in distilling 

the complexities of war into individual 

visual stories. Through these evocative 

portraits, Mestel aims to forge 

a profound connection between the 

viewer and the brutal reality of the 

war, inviting reflection on the shared 

humanity that transcends borders. 

Despite global support for Ukraine 

in the first year of the war, aid and 

public support have declined during 

this second year. The Portrait 

Ukraine Exhibition serves as a stark 

The Lexow 

Gallery is 

set to host 

the Portrait 

Ukraine 

Photography Exhibition 

from March 15 to April 

19, 2024. This profound 

exhibition presents a compelling 

collection of photographs 

meticulously curated 

from three journeys to 

Ukraine undertaken by distinguished 

photojournalist 

Allan Mestel. The Portrait 

Ukraine Exhibition captures 

the faces of resistance 

amid the chaos of war. 

Within weeks of Russia’s full-scale 

invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, 

Allan Mestel embarked on a mission 

to document the harrowing realities 

faced by Ukrainians. Witnessing the 

devastation firsthand, Mestel’s photographic 

journey spans three visits 

to the war-torn region, first focusing 

on the Ukraine/Poland border, documenting 

the massive refugee crisis. 

A subsequent trip details the devastating 

aftermath of Russia’s military 

attacks and missile strikes, revealing 

the profound human toll on the people 

of Ukraine. His most recent journey 

in September 2023 covered cities 

and small towns throughout Ukraine, 

immersing himself in the environments 

of those significantly impacted 

by the war and taking intimate portraits 

reflecting the authentic human 

experience amid war. 

The Portrait Ukraine Exhibireminder 

of the dire conditions and 

ongoing challenges the Ukrainian 

people face, serving as a call to the 

world for more support. 

As viewers of the exhibition embark 

on their visual journey, they 

should understand that Mestel’s work 

is ongoing. He is not merely presenting 

a snapshot in time but an evolving 

chronicle. Mestel is planning a 

fourth journey to Ukraine in the first 

half of 2024, ensuring that the world 

remains informed and connected to 

the ongoing struggles and triumphs 

of the Ukrainian people. 

Spotlight Ukraine, a volunteer 

initiative dedicated to supporting 

Ukraine and the Ukrainian people, 

stands alongside Mestel in his commitment 

to documenting the truth 

and sharing the personal stories 

of those impacted by the war. As 

a part of this ongoing effort, Spotlight 

Ukraine supports the ‘Portrait 

Ukraine’ project by actively sharing 

stories and photographs from Allan 

Mestel’s journeys, aiming to generate 

awareness with a broader audience. 

Those unable to attend the exhibition 

and attendees interested in reading 

about the backstory of the ‘Portrait 

Ukraine’ project, Mestel’s journeys, 

and personal stories about the portraits 

are encouraged to visit www. 

spotlightukraine.com. 

More information on the upcoming 

exhibition is available online 

at: www.portraitukraine.info. 

EXHIBITION INFORMATION: 

through April 19, 2024 • Lexow Gallery 

3975 Fruitville Rd Sarasota, FL 

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: 

Gallery Hours: 

Tuesday - Friday, 10 AM to 2 PM • Sunday 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM 

Or by appointment, call 941-371-4974 

LIMITED-EDITION PRINTS 

Limited-edition prints of select images from the Portrait 

Ukraine collection will be available for purchase from Allan 

Mestel. Profits will be used to fund his next journey to Ukraine 

to continue the Portrait Ukraine project. Information will be 

provided at the event. 


healthier you 

W 

aking up in the middle of 

the night when you would 

like to be asleep can be a 

frustrating experience. 

People wake up during 

the night for different reasons. Many factors 

cause people to wake up during the 

night, such as disruptions in the environment, 

lifestyle factors, health issues, and 

aging. Here are some possibilities. 

Sleep Environment Factors 

Sleep hygiene tips often include the advice 

to maintain a quiet, dark, cool bedroom, 

as sensory disturbances can wake 

a person up during the night. 

For example, research suggests that 

background sounds, such as traffic noises 

from vehicles on a nearby street, can 

cause sleep disturbances. Researchers 

have found that, in addition to waking 

people up, these sounds can also prompt 

the release of the stress hormones adrenaline 

and cortisol, increase heart rate, and 

affect digestion. 

Light also plays an issue. A study of 

adults found that even exposure to 

very dim light during the night can negatively 

impact sleep. Sources of night 

time light could include street lights shining 

in through a window or a night light 

plugged into a wall outlet. Not only can 

dim light exposure increase nighttime 

awakenings, but it can also change how 

much time a person spends in certain 

stages of sleep. 

Then there’s temperature. Research 

shows that both skin and room temperature 

impact sleep. A person experiences 

the best sleep when their core body temperature 

cools and skin temperature increases. 

For that reason, most experts recommend 

keeping the bedroom between 

66 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit and adjusting 

bedding to regulate skin temperature 

throughout the night. 

Lifestyle Factors 

• Alcohol: Although alcohol may relax you 

and even seem to help you fall asleep, 

studies suggest drinking can reduce 

your sleep quality. A study of Korean 

adults found that people who drink excessively 

obtain less sleep and experience 

more sleep disruptions. Alcohol also appears 

to negatively impact sleep for those 

who do not drink excessively. 

• Nicotine: Nicotine is a stimulant, 

and smoking cigarettes can have negative 

effects for sleep quality. Studies 

have found that nicotine intake in the 

four hours before sleep is associated with 

waking up during the night. 

• Caffeine: Caffeine is another substance 

that could be responsible for sleep troubles. 

In one study, caffeine disrupted 

sleep when consumed up to six hours before 

bedtime. 

• Certain Medications: Certain prescription 

medications, including psychotherapeutic 

medications, beta blockers, opioids, 

and stimulants, may interfere with 

staying asleep. 

How to Fall Back Asleep 

After Waking in the Night 

• Evening Digital Device Usage: Light 

exposure affects the circadian rhythm, 

helping the body feel alert during daylight 

hours and tired at night. Research 

shows that blue light exposure in particular 

can impact your sleep 

schedule. Many studies 

have demonstrated that 

digital devices like smartphones 

and e-readers 

that emit blue light can 

disrupt sleep when used 

near bedtime. 

• Lack of Physical Activity: 

Sleep and exercise are 

considered mutually 

beneficial. Although 

more research is needed, 

it appears that exercising 

regularly leads to more 

and better-quality sleep, 

while time spent being 

sedentary increases 

sleep disruption. Strenuous 

exercise close to bedtime, 

can cause sleep disturbances. 

Health Issues 

When a person awakens during the 

night despite being in conditions that 

are good for sleep, they may have insomnia, 

another sleep disorder, or an underlying 

health issue. 

Although many people think of insomnia 

as trouble falling asleep, it can also involve 

waking in the middle of the night or 

early morning and having difficulty falling 

back asleep. Insomnia may occur once in a 

while on a short-term basis. When insomnia 

happens regularly for more than three 

months, it is considered chronic insomnia. 

Many health issues cause or exacerbate 

insomnia such as: 

• Lung disease 

• Asthma 

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) 

• Chronic kidney disease 

• Fibromyalgia and other chronic pain 

disorders 

• Infectious diseases, such as Lyme disease 

or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) 

• Cancer 

• Diabetes with hypoglycemic events at 

night 

• Mood disorders, like anxiety and depression 

Nighttime awakenings associated with 

a health issue are often due to a symptom 

of that issue. For example, coughing might 

wake up a person with a lung disease, 

while heartburn might wake up a person 

with GERD. Addressing the underlying 

health issue or sleep disorder is an important 

step toward regaining better sleep. 

Aging 

Research shows that as people grow older 

they tend to spend less time in deep 

sleep and more time in light sleep. Since 

it is easier to wake up from light sleep and 

more difficult to wake up from deep sleep, 

spending more time in light sleep might 

explain why older adults also wake up 

more during the night. 

Also, they tend to have circadian 

rhythm changes that can lead to falling 

asleep earlier and waking up earlier 

than they would wish. Health conditions, 

medications, lifestyle factors, and sleep 

disorders such as sleep apnea or restless 

legs syndrome can further contribute to 

nighttime awakenings for adults over 60. 

Hormonal Factors 

If you are currently undergoing hormonal 

changes, they could be responsible for 

your nighttime awakenings. Studies have 

found that people tend to experience a 

reduction in sleep quality during pregnancy, 

especially during the third trimester. 

Menopause is also associated with 

sleep disturbances. 

Tips for Falling Back Asleep 

• Deep Breathing—Experts recommend 

using slow, deep breathing to fall back 

asleep. This type of breathing may activate 

the parasympathetic nervous system, 

which is involved in relaxation and 

sleep. One such breathing technique is 

called 4-7-8 method which involves four 

seconds of inhalation through the nose, 

hold the breath of seven seconds and 

then exhale through the mount for eight 

second. 

• Mindfulness Meditation—Mindfulness 

meditation may also help improve sleep 

quality. Mindfulness meditation involves 

purposefully focusing on the present moment 

and paying attention to what occurs 

from a place of curiosity rather than 

judgment. 

A variety of mindfulness meditation techniques 

exists, including techniques that 

incorporate specific breathing patterns. 

People interested in trying mindfulness 

meditation can seek out courses or listen 

to recorded guidance using a smartphone 

or another device. 

• Relaxation Exercises— Three relaxation 

techniques are common: 

Box Breathing: To engage in box breathing, 

breathe in for four seconds, hold 

the breath for four seconds, exhale for 

four seconds, and hold the breath again 

for four seconds. You may find it helps 

to imagine working your way around a 

square box as you breathe. Keep repeating 

this pattern of inhaling, holding, exhaling, 

and holding the breath again. If 

four seconds is not the ideal length of 

time for you, you can adjust it up or down. 

Guided Imagery: A recording can help 

guide you as you practice visualizing 

somewhere peaceful, like a beach. As you 

visualize the setting, try to imagine what 

you would be experiencing through all 

five senses. For example, try to see, hear, 

smell, taste, and feel the sensations you 

would if you were in the setting you are 

imagining. 

Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR): 

This technique involves 

progressively tensing and 

then relaxing each muscle 

in the body. You can 

start with your feet, then 

move up to your head one 

muscle group at a time, or 

vice-versa. After you tense 

a muscle, try to keep it contracted 

for at least five seconds, 

then slowly release 

it. Guided recordings are 

widely available to talk you 

through progressive muscle 

relaxation. 

• Soothing Sounds, Music, 

or ASMR Content—listening 

to music or white 

noise can help people fall 

asleep faster and wake up 

less during the night. Music and white 

noise likely promote sleep by blocking 

out background noise or prompting a relaxation 

response. 

Other sounds can also promote sleep 

through an autonomous sensory meridian 

response, or ASMR. An ASMR response 

involves a tingling sensation on the scalp 

that may trickle down the spine and the 

rest of the body. This response can be 

triggered by particular sounds or videos, 

which often involve whispering, slow 

movements, personal attention, and crisp 

sounds. Studies suggest that even when 

a person does not experience a full ASMR 

response, watching or listening to ASMR 

material can still improve mood and reduce 

pain. 

What to Avoid 

Watching the Clock: Studies suggest 

that clock-watching, which involves 

closely monitoring what time it is, can 

make falling asleep more difficult for people 

with insomnia. While clock-watching, 

a person might become frustrated that 

they have not fallen asleep yet, which 

can increase stress and make sleep even 

less likely. 

Looking at Electronics and Turning on 

Lights: Although you might feel tempted 

to reach for your smartphone, e-reader, or 

the lamp on your nightstand after waking 

up during the night, try to resist. Light exposure 

stops the production of melatonin, 

a hormone that promotes sleep. 

Staying in Bed too Long: If you wake 

up during the night and cannot fall back 

asleep, experts recommend getting out 

of bed after 15 to 30 minutes. To help your 

brain associate your bed with sleeping 

rather than with being awake, you want to 

avoid lying awake in bed for too long. Instead, 

do something relaxing elsewhere, 

like meditating or reading a book. Then, 

come back to bed when you feel tired. 

When to See a Doctor 

Many of the causes of sleep disruption 

can be easily remedied through changes 

to the sleep environment or improved 

sleep hygiene. However, sometimes waking 

up at night and being unable to fall 

back asleep indicates a person has a sleep 

disorder or underlying health problem. If 

you continue to experience sleep disruption 

after improving your sleep habits, 

talk to your doctor. 


Program 7 | Sarasota Opera House 

inspirations 

Accompanied by Live Music 

APR 27 

2:00 PM | 7:30 PM 

APR 26 

7:30 PM 

Program Media Sponsor 

941.359.0099 | SarasotaBallet.org 

Sierra Abelardo and Evan Gorbel in Sir Fredrick Ashton’s Sinfonietta | Photo by Frank Atura 


feature 

Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation’s 

2024 Sarasota County Heritage Awards 

This year’s winners 

represent achievements 

in the areas of historic 

preservation and 

adaptive reuse, 

historical research, 

archaeological 

conservancy, and 

organizational and 

individual achievement. 

1 

1 

3 4 5 6 

2 

The Sarasota Alliance for Historic 

Preservation (SAHP), in collaboration 

with the History & Preservation 

Coalition of Sarasota County 

(HPCOSC), had its Sarasota County 

2024 Heritage Awards. The awardeeswere 

honored at a ceremony back on March 21. 

The Heritage Awards program was originally 

developed in 2014 by the HPCOSC 

and is currently managed by the SAHP, to 

recognize individuals and organizations that 

have made outstanding contributions to the 

preservation and understanding of Sarasota 

County’s historical resources. These activities 

are important to lend public support 

to governmental and citizen-based efforts 

that preserve our common past so future 

generations can enjoy what is so unique and 

beautiful about Sarasota County. 

The 2024 Heritage Award 

Recipients: 

Gregory A. and Eleana Najmy Hall 

Adaptive Use and Historic Preservation: 

These two awards are named in 

honor of the legacy of architect Gregory A. 

Hall and his wife Eleana Najmy Hall. They 

recognize and celebrate the best historic 

preservation projects in Sarasota County. 

Nominations are judged for their success 

in the rehabilitation, restoration, or adaptive 

use of a historic building in Sarasota 

County as well as the impact of the project 

on the community. Nominated projects 

must have been completed within the last 

five years of the submission deadline and 

been completed in accordance with the 

Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for 

Historical Rehabilitation: 

1 

Vickie Oldham and Sarasota African 

American Cultural Coalition 

(SAACC) Preservation of the 

Leonard Reid House: In recognition 

of their extraordinary efforts to preserve 

the home of one of Sarasota’s 

early leaders of the city’s African 

American community, and repurpose 

the family’s home as an arts, culture 

and history center in Newtown that 

celebrates Black life and history. The 

Committee and awardees also wish to 

recognize the financial and logistical 

support the Awardees received from 

Stevie Freeman-Montes, City Manager 

Marlon Brown, and the Sarasota City 

Commissioners. Preservation of the 

2 

Florida 

Leonard Reid House. It is an outstanding 

example of the successful result of 

a collaborative effort with the City of 

Sarasota to make their vision a reality. 

Studio Theater Preservation 

and Adaptive Reuse of 

the Sarasota’s Woman’s Club and 

Gompertz Theater. In recognition of 

FST’s extraordinary efforts to incorporate 

these historic structures into 

its campus, and repurpose them with 

sensitive alterations, as it has grown 

over the past 50 years into one the 

community’s most important arts and 

cultural institutions. 

• 

3 

Frank 

4 

Dorothy 

The Lillian Burns Individual 

Achievement: This year, the award 

was conferred upon two individuals 

who have made profound contributions 

to the history and preservation 

movement in Sarasota County. 

Cassell, PhD: In recognition 

of his outstanding contributions to the 

history and preservation movement 

in Sarasota County, in the areas of 

scholarly research and publications, 

and for his tireless devotion to community 

service with your leadership of 

the Sarasota County Centennial Committee, 

the History and Preservation 

Coalition of Sarasota County and the 

Friends of the Sarasota County History 

Center, among many others. 

Korwek: In recognition of 

her outstanding contributions to the 

history and preservation movement in 

Sarasota County, including her efforts 

to preserve and maintain the Triangle 

Inn building and the Lord-Higel House; 

obtain historic a historic designation 

for the Triangle Inn; her compilation 

and publication of numerous books 

and pamphlets documenting the history 

and culture of Venice; and her 

tireless community service. 

• 

Archaeological Conservancy: This 

award recognizes outstanding efforts 

to preserve and document prehistoric 

sites and/or effective advocacy of archaeological 

conservation. 

5 

Marion 

Almy: In recognition of her 

outstanding efforts to preserve and 

document prehistoric sites in Sarasota 

County and the Tampa Bay region; her 

decades of effective advocacy for archeological 

conservation and historic 

preservation in Florida; and her effectiveness 

in advancing archeological 

preservation with national, local and 

state government agencies, including 

the Florida Department of Transportation 

and Florida Division of Historical 

Resources. 

• 

6 

Deborah 

Historical Research: Awarded for 

outstanding contributions through 

research and publication to increase 

knowledge of Sarasota County’s past. 

Walk: In recognition of her 

outstanding contributions to historic 

research and archival preservation 

of our cultural past, including her research 

into the history of the Crocker 

Church for the Historical Society of 

Sarasota County; research for the 

Church of the Redeemer, and the 

Founders Garden Club; and for her 

work as an archivist, researcher, and 

author. 

• 

7 

Organizational Achievement: 

Presented to a Sarasota County historical 

or preservation organization 

for outstanding success in historical 

preservation, historical education, 

and/or support of historical research. 

The awards committee welcomes 

nominations of organizations that have 

successfully completed a project or a 

series of projects that have had a significant 

impact on preserving and understanding 

Sarasota County’s history. 

7 

Venice 

Heritage, Inc.: In recognition 

of its efforts to advance historic 

preservation, education, research, and 

community engagement in Venice. It 

is curator of two of the community’s 

most important historical structures— 

the Lord-Higel House and the Triangle 

Inn (now the Venice Museum). It has 

also published books documenting 

the historical and cultural fabric of the 

city and continues to have, strong impact 

on raising community awareness 

of Venice’s past. 

The Heritage Awards committee is comprised 

of professionals in the fields of 

architecture, historic preservation, real 

estate development, archaeology, history 

and collections management who deliberated 

over the awards submissions before 

making their final selections. 

For more information, visit 

www.PreserveSRQ.org. 

About Sarasota Alliance for 

Historic Preservation 

The Sarasota Alliance for Historic 

Preservation is a nonprofit organization 

whose mission is to “Preserve and Enhance 

our Historic Places.” SAHP was 

incorporated in 1985 in an attempt to save 

architect Dwight Baum’s El Vernona Hotel 

in downtown Sarasota. The Alliance, 

a membership-driven organization, is 

comprised of residents, business owners, 

visitors, artists, architects, engineers, historians, 

builders, archaeologists, Realtors, 

planners, designers, and writers working together 

to preserve and encourage others to 

preserve - not only the remaining significant 

landmarks - but also the contributing structures 

that define Sarasota County. For more 

information, visit www.PreserveSRQ.org. 


“FANTASTICAL FILMS OF GOOD TASTE” 

SARASOTA 

FILM FESTIVAL 

APRIL 5-14, 2024 

sarasotafilmfestival.com 


dining in 

If 

you do a lot of plant-based cooking you probably know about tempeh. 

But how well do you really know tempeh? 

What is Tempeh? 

Tempeh is a plant-based protein made from cooked, fermented soybeans that 

are formed into loaves and incubated in containers at a low temperature until 

set. The resulting cake or loaf can then be sliced and then served fried, baked, or 

steamed. Tempeh is believed to have originated in present day Indonesia more 

than three centuries ago, and it remains one of the only major soy-derived substances 

not invented in Japan or China. 

Tempeh vs. Tofu 

Both tempeh and tofu are soy-based proteins, but there’s a few key differences 

between the two products. Tofu is made from dried soybeans that have been 

soaked in water, crushed, and boiled. The resulting liquid (soy milk) is coagulated 

into curds and pressed into blocks of varying textures, ranging from soft and 

jiggly to firm.

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