Intrepid photographer/fashion designer/change agent Marina Williams is embarking on a new endeavor with artist friends Aubrey Bramble and Erin John Sullivan. On April 1, they will open ARTpool, a funky rent-a-wall space for local artists to exhibit their work. (The three founding artists will also have studios in the space.) Think Tampa Artist Emporium with less square footage and more hipster ‘tude. The location of the storefront, on 1st Ave N in downtown St. Petersburg, is prime for joining the Second Saturday Gallery Walk gravy train. Somewhere, an angel watching over downtown Tampa just lost its wings…

P.S., Yet another sign that interdisciplinary venues that merge party/entertainment with art are thriving in the Bay area while traditional galleries are struggling?

The press release runs after the jump.

ARTpool is an innovative approach to the traditional studio/gallery/event space.

ARTpool is opening its doors April 1st, and will be celebrating its birth into its downtown historic space by having a pARTy on the 19th of April!! Every medium will be represented, with a fashion show, dj’s, video art, live events, installations, and much more. Focusing in the contemporary mindset to bend rules and traditions in making, showing and practicing art. We are currently searching for unique talent and brilliant originality from local artists. For the next two weeks we will be renting wall space at $50 (upper level) $100 (middle level) and $150 (eye level) on a first come first serve basis. Each section is 4 feet square. After April 1st the prices will be $75, $125, $175. spaces are filling up, so get in now and remember 100% of all art sales goes directly to the artist.

Artists, we want you to dive into the ARTpool!

To be considered for one of our wall rentals, please send us an email with your contact information, along with photos of the work to be displayed.

What you need to know:

Each 4×4 space ranges in price from $50-$150/month, after April 1^st $75-$175.

You keep 100% of your profit. There is a $2.00 processing fee per artwork sold that covers packaging, merchant services, and retail costs.

3 month contracts; after the 3 months are up, you have the option of removing your work or renewing your lease.

How we will promote and support
 you as a community artist:

Regular gallery hours for walk-in and scheduled clients to view work.

Monthly art events featuring refreshments, entertainment, special guests and more. Weekly art and film events.

Advertising through internet sites such as MySpace and the ARTpool website, e-mail blasts, print media, visual media, and assorted merchandise.

Constantly updated website with a virtual gallery of your displayed works; in addition, each artist will have a photo, bio, and link to their personal web site.

For more information please e-mail marina [at] marinawilliams.com or call 727.324.3878

ARTpool is located at:

919 1st Avenue North

Saint Petersburg, FL 33705