It has been no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic has been a bitch to the restaurant industry. We’ve had to say goodbye to many local staples around town, and some are still struggling to recover from significant financial losses during shutdowns.
In response, the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts (FMoPA) has announced a call for entries for the upcoming exhibition, "The Chef’s Special," to spotlight struggling restaurants. The exhibition will consist of portraits of local service industry professionals.
A self-guided window tour will accompany the exhibition. FMoPA will produce a map of participating establishments where the portraits will be shown in the windows or outside dining areas.
Photographers of all ages and skill levels are invited to submit portraits of individuals behind beloved Tampa Bay restaurants, bars and even coffee shops. According to a release, the mission is “to create a one-of-a-kind community collaboration,” to support businesses that have suffered as a result of the pandemic.
Here’s how it works:
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If you are a photographer, you are invited to take a photo of your favorite chef, barista, brewmaster, restaurant or a cafe owner and submit it to [email protected]. If you do not personally know a chef or restaurant owner, please contact FMoPA to find your match. Participation is free of charge. For submission guidelines, please visit fmopa.org. Deadline: Jan. 24, 2021.
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If you are a restaurant owner and would like to have you (or your staff members) featured in the exhibition, please contact [email protected]. The museum will match you with a professional photographer. Participation in the exhibition is free of charge.
To view all guidelines for submission, visit fmopa.org. The Chef’s Special will be on display during February and March 2021.
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