Teacher Dillon O'Donnell discusses the projects his students produce at Tomlin Middle School
Gasparilla Arts representatives Sean Bevil and Clay Hollenkamp unload art supplies bound for the Tomlin Middle School art classroom
A grant from Community Foundation Tampa Bay supports the new "Making Space to Create" initiative
TAMPA, FL, UNITED STATES, September 8, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Through its new 'Making Space to Create' initiative, Gasparilla Arts is delivering art supplies to 20 middle schools in Hillsborough County, made possible by a Community Foundation Tampa Bay grant. Participating visual arts classrooms receive materials that give students increased chances to experiment with various media, refine their abilities, and develop a passion for art.
Gasparilla Arts decided to direct the program at middle school students because this stage is a crucial period for creative growth, when young people often start to identify talents and passions they might pursue through high school and beyond. On September 4, Gasparilla Arts representatives delivered boxes of art supplies to Tomlin Middle School in Plant City, one of the 20 participating schools, and met with students and art teacher Dillon O’Donell.
“Middle school is often when students begin to recognize their own creative potential,” said Clay Hollenkamp, Gasparilla Arts Advisory Board Member. “Arts education does more than build artistic skills. It encourages creative thinking, problem-solving, perseverance, and confidence that students can carry into every part of their lives. By providing teachers with high-quality supplies, we are helping give more students the opportunity to develop those abilities.”
Hollenkamp and fellow board member Sean Bevil talked with students about how art can build creativity, self-assurance, and problem-solving skills.
“Gasparilla Arts has always been about more than just our annual festival,” Patrick said. “As we evolve our brand, we want people to see the work we’re doing year-round: supporting artists, expanding arts education, and investing in our community. Making Space to Create is a perfect example of that commitment.”
This program is part of Gasparilla Arts’ larger push to broaden its year-round community offerings. The organization is best known for producing the annual Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, but it also runs initiatives focused on artist growth, arts education, and community involvement throughout the year.
“'Making Space to Create' allows us to reach young people before they may even think of themselves as artists,” Hollenkamp said. “By giving them the tools to explore their creativity now, we hope we’re opening the door to possibilities they may not have considered.”
About Gasparilla Arts
Gasparilla Arts is a nonprofit organization that produces the annual Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts and supports artists, arts education, and community engagement throughout the Tampa Bay region. Through its festival, artist development programs, educational initiatives, and community partnerships, the organization works to expand access to the visual arts and create opportunities for artists at all stages of their development.
Terri Hall
Doubletake Marketing & PR
+18134044102 ext.
thall@doubletakefl.com
Connect with us on social media:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
