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When communities come together in celebration of art, stories transform into shared experiences, and new pathways for creative expression emerge. At Green Book of Tampa Bay, our year’s programming has done more than stage events. It has nurtured artists, elevated voices, and sparked deeper connections across Tampa Bay. Here’s a look at how our work is making a difference:

One Night Only: A Musical Showcase of Local Talent

In summer 2025, Green Book hosted the One Night Only Summer Concert Series at The Studio@620. Across two evenings, July 26 (featuring Ari Chi and Shelby Sol) and August 15 (featuring Zeta The Babe and JayRod the MC), the concerts highlighted the diversity and dynamism of the local music scene. These performances affirmed that Tampa Bay’s artistic pulse is strong and growing. By centering community artists, the series created space for local creatives to perform before new audiences, build exposure, and deepen their roots in the region.

“Resilient Reflections” — Our 5th Annual Juneteenth Exhibit

This flagship art exhibit brought together a powerful blend of visual art, spoken word, and musical performance. The opening night featured a spoken word performance by Dennis Rodney Jr., a saxophone set by Brian Peret, and a closing set by Shevonne, whose voice and energy energized the crowd. A moderated panel featuring Azura, A&J Inspirations, Kyle Brown, and Lrys World, led by Camille Washington of Art Noire Gallery invited attendees behind the scenes, exploring creative journeys, challenges, and the stories behind the creations. Major sponsors included the Gobioff Foundation (mural sponsor), Peter Van Dyke, We Art St. Pete, Asilia Law Firm, Strickland Law, and ASC Money LLC. The exhibit reminded us how art can frame history, identity, and resilience.

Building Bridges: Mixers, Collaborations & Innovation

• Paint & Sip Business Owner Mixer: In collaboration with the Hillsborough County Black Chamber of Commerce, we gathered business owners over canvases and conversation. Held at Painting with a Twist, this event fostered deeper relationship-building between creatives and entrepreneurs.

• 3rd Annual Black Art Gala: This gala was a major celebration.  22 visual artists showcased their work, five musicians performed on Ferguson Hall’s stage, and five community members were honored with awards. Corporate partners like The Tampa Edition, Symphonic Distribution, Armature Works, Gobioff Foundation, and Bay First Bank provided support, making it a keystone evening of recognition and celebration.

These events underscore a central philosophy: that art doesn’t operate in isolation. By weaving together artists, business owners, sponsors, and the public, Green Book creates an ecosystem where creative expression and community empowerment reinforce one another.

The Ripple Effects of Creativity & Care

Through these programs and gatherings:

• Artists gain visibility — performing in concerts and exhibiting in galleries gives creators access to new audiences, press coverage, and potential career momentum.

• Community relationships deepen — curated panels, mixers, and conversations bring together diverse stakeholders like creators, patrons, business owners, and supporters to share, learn, and build.

• Structural support strengthens — with sponsors, foundations, and partners investing in murals, exhibits, and event logistics, we gradually fortify the infrastructure artists need to thrive.

• Narratives shift — by spotlighting Black creatives and centering their voices, Green Book challenges cultural invisibility in the arts and invites broader community recognition.

Looking Ahead

Each event we’ve produced is a stepping stone toward a bigger vision: a Tampa Bay environment where local creatives are celebrated, earn sustainable careers, and shape the cultural fabric of their city. As we plan future residencies, exhibits, and partnerships, the stories from 2025 will guide us and hopefully inspire others to join the movement. Your contributions fuel this work!