Derek Donnelly "Portrait of a City Circa 2018" Talk | 2nd Saturday ArtWalk

Join us from 5–9PM during Second Saturday ArtWalk for a soft preview of Suite E Studios, one of the newest spaces coming to the Warehouse Arts District. 🎨

This will be a special edition, celebrating the work and career of St. Pete muralist Derek Donnelly, aka Saint Paint Arts. Donnelly will be on hand to talk in detail about his 2018 mural on the walls of Suite E that was recently uncovered and inherited by a new wave of creatives, musicians, DJs, and artists upon moving into the space. Formerly the Law Office of Kevin T. Beck, and just being used as storage prior to its current iteration, the lawyer commissioned the piece based on inspiration from his favorite album, War's seminal classic "The World is a Ghetto." It's since been given new life and meaning as since opening to the public as Suite E Studios. An OG of the Sunshine City's well-known reputation as a vibrant and colorful arts destination covered in murals, Donnelly will also speak about his experience as a muralist in general, providing valuable insight for both established peers and emerging artists interested in getting into the local mural scene alike.

Please take a moment to express your interest in attending the talk by RSVPing. Space and seating are limited, so this will help us plan and prepare to host.

Full schedule and agenda to come.

A lost and forgotten relic of Old St. Pete, the mural captures a snapshot in time, incorporating both the artists themselves and the institutions of that period. Some of the places have been torn down or no longer exist in their previous form (RIP to the State Theatre, for instance), but many of the artists have gone on to greater heights in their careers, highlighting the importance and enduring nature of their talent and contributions to the city. Buildings come and go at the whims of business owners, city officials, and developers, while artists remain invested in their communities and where they live.

Following the talk, we will be reimagining the mural by unveiling a new projection mapped experience of it, bringing the piece into 2025 and showcasing the potential future possibilities of the work, the space, and the collaborative spirit of our artist community.

There will be music from Jadget Gam and beverages available, including a pop-up by Brewed Awakenings — so stop by and say hi! 👋

Explore the Warehouse Arts District neighborhood and our neighbors like The Minster Gallery, Joe Sale Photography, The Mad Monk, The Factory St. Pete, FloridaRAMA, Daddy Kool Records, and more.

If you're interested in getting involved, or have a mobile food business, please drop us a line at [email protected]

Graphics and design by Aura Creative Studios Inc.

Host or Publisher Suite E Studios