A vibrant, symmetrical illustration of a moth with orange-and-yellow patterned wings set against a black background. The moth is surrounded by celestial and nature-themed elements, including white and blue stars, crescent moons, and green leafy stems at the bottom. The design features bold geometric shapes and a bright pink accent in the center of a top star.

Seven emerging Tampa Bay artists to watch in 2026 and beyond

The more artists we spoke with, the more we considered what it means to emerge.

by Jennifer Ring January 30, 2026January 30, 2026

When former Creative Loafing Editor-in-Chief David Warner decided to feature up-and-coming Tampa bay actors and dancers in this year’s Spring Arts Issue, the idea soon expanded to include visual artists as well. We reached out to some of the best curators in the Tampa Bay area—people whose job is to discover new artists and showcase […]

A studio portrait of a person with a dark beard and a red baseball cap, looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression. They are wearing a unique, multi-colored button-down shirt featuring yellow and blue tie-dye patterns, a "Yosemite National Park" patch, a "Jake" name tag, and an American flag patch on the sleeve, all set against a solid grey background.

Arts & Entertainment

Tampa artist Fary Charles channeled rage, disappointment, and a desire to prove himself into his latest solo show

The artist also known as ‘Junkyard’ mixes music with painting.

by Jennifer Ring January 30, 2026January 30, 2026

Margarita Wars is now Tequila & Tiki Takedown - More tequila, more fun! - Get tix here