Fountain of Pythons sounds like a kick-ass name for a new brewery, but it’s actually a Tampa-based photography collective comprised of Wendy Babcox, Jeremy Chandler, Shawn Cheatham, Marcus DiSieno, Becky Flanders, Forrest MacDonald, Noelle Mason, Kym O’Donnell and Selina Roman. Their reason for existence is to, of course, take amazing photographs showcasing the world around them, but officially it’s to “provide a regular forum to incubate, discuss, and share new works, knowledge, and resources in support of each individual’s studio practice, as well as to build a foundation for collaboration, exhibition, and engagement of the public with the fruits of that practice.”
Essentially, they come together for the same reason writers have writers’ groups: to strengthen their own practice but also to offer the kind of artist support group that helps everyone in the group be better at what they do.
Take in the latest crop of work from this photography collective at its upcoming exhibit at HCC’s Ybor art gallery. The show opens Aug. 20, but to get the most bang for your buck (metaphorically; it’s a free exhibit), head to the opening reception and meet the artists on Aug. 30.
Take Me Down | HCC Ybor Gallery, Performing Arts Building, Palm Ave. & 15th St., Ybor | Aug. 20-Sept. 20: Mon. & Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Tues., 12-7 p.m. | Aug. 30: 4:30 p.m. opening reception; 6:15 gallery talks begin | hccfl.edu/yborgallery
This article appears in Aug 2-9, 2018.
