The live music lineup at the 28th annual Mainsail Arts Festival is almost as impressive as the list of 248 participating artists.
The event takes place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 19 and 20 in Straub Park along St. Petersburg's scenic downtown waterfront.
Music acts taking the stage include Jennifer & the Venturas, an eclectic group that plays everything from fusion to surf rock; Gumby Ortiz and the Latino Projekt, a high-energy Afro-Cuban ensemble led by acclaimed percussionist Gumby Ortiz; and Delta Moon, an unsigned blues band featuring dueling guitars and barrelhouse piano.
Exhibiting artists include Land O'Lakes photographer George Cuddeback, last year's best of show winner; ceramicist Jack Boyle, a San Antonio, Fla., craftsman of fine functional artwork; and Tampa painter Sally Cahill, who created this year's Mainsail commemorative poster.
The festival, juried by Jan Craven, president and CEO of the Jacksonville Museum of Art, offers $50,000 in prize money, topped by the $10,000 award for Best of Mainsail.
There's also a strolling mime, minstrel and magician.
It's all happening at a gorgeous spot for a picnic. Unfortunately no coolers or pets are allowed. (One word: tailgate.)
Straub Park is located on Beach Drive, adjacent to Vinoy Park, in downtown St. Petersburg. For more info on the Mainsail Arts Festival, visit www.mainsailartsfestival.org or call 727-892-5885.
Live Music Schedule:
Saturday, April 19
Noon — Jennifer & the Venturas
1:15 — Urban Gypsies
2:30 — Twinkle Schascle
3:45 — Gumby Ortiz and the Latino Projekt
Sunday, April 20
Noon — Lounge Cat
1:15 — Japonize Elephants
2:30 — Delta Moon
3:45 — Cactus Creek
This article appears in Apr 16-22, 2003.