Join us for the launch of the Creative Nexus Series, tailored for BIPOC and LGBTQ artists. Kick off the evening with an Opening Artist Reception at 6:00 PM, featuring the works of Alfredo Garcia. Enjoy an engaging artist talk that provides insight into Garcia's creative process and inspirations. The reception sets the stage for a dynamic lineup of performances, showcasing a diverse array of music, poetry, and visual arts.
Date: Saturday, September 28, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Location: Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota, FL 34236
Kickoff Event Schedule: ​
Hosted by MC Melanie Lavender
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6:00pm: Opening reception for Gallery Exhibition of Alfredo Garcia's Work with Music by David Muñoz
6:00pm- 7:00pm: Mix and Mingle
7:00pm: Welcome and Introduction to the Creative Nexus
7:10pm: Finesse the Poet
7:20pm: Synia Carroll
8:20pm: Jah Movement
9:20 pm - 9:30 pm: Closing Remarks
This event is a collaboration with WSLR+Fogartyville and Emerge Sarasota, and is sponsored by the Live Music Society. It’s not just an event —it’s an immersive experience designed to connect and celebrate the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of diverse artists. Don’t miss this inspiring evening in the heart of Sarasota’s artistic community!
Meet the Artists
Melanie Lavender
Melanie Lavender is a Spoken Word artist and proud Sarasota native. While attending Booker High School, Melanie discovered her ability to write poetry. Performing at open mics and singing in churches across Central Florida perfected her soulful delivery of Spoken Word. In 2020, she created Soul of Tha Matter at 107.5 The Vibe and transitioned to radio in 2022 with Community Conversations with Mel on WSLR 96.5 FM. Thanks to the John Ringling Tower Grant, she released her spoken word album Newtown Proverbs in June 2023.
@souladani
Alfredo Garcia
Alfredo is a Bradenton-based fine arts painter, sculptor, and owner of Arte Coyoanao gallery. Alfredo studied art at the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Iztapalapa in Mexico and brought his rich culture and desire to excel as an artist to the U.S. His artworks convey a unique view of the world, colored by his individual beliefs and experiences. Alfredo is deeply optimistic - he believes strongly in the goodness of people and this world, which is reflected in his art and personal values.​​​​​
@arte.coyoacano
David Muñoz
David Muñoz specializes in a mesmerizing world music fusion that blends the passionate rhythms of flamenco, the sophistication of classical, the warmth of Latin jazz, the charm of Brazilian bossa nova, and the exotic melodies of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern music.
@arte_de_daveed
Synia Carroll
Synia Carroll is an empowering and effervescent jazz vocalist whose smooth, soulful voice captivates audiences with every performance. Her unique style blends influences from Nina Simone, Natalie Cole, and Diane Reeves. After relocating to Sarasota in 2014 and leaving a career in education, Synia quickly became a rising star in the Sun Coast Jazz scene. She released her debut album, Here’s To You, in 2016, and regularly headlines at festivals and venues across Central Florida. Accompanied by a guitarist and bassist, Synia is currently working on a new recording project featuring original and reimagined compositions.
@syniacjazz
Finesse the Poet
Fine$$e The Poet, is a Puerto Rican Spoken Word Artist, Freestyle Poet , and Rapper coming out of Tampa, FL Incorporating his culture and faith in everything he does hoping to share his emotions, love , pain , and experiences in the most relatable way possible . Blessed with a voice that can make a room quiet enough to hear a pin drop and grasp the attention of anyone and everyone in attendance no matter the circumstance. He always has a message for someone, he may not know who its for but it will be received in light as always, and in words of his favorite artist Erykah Badu, keep in mind that he’s an artist…and he’s sensitive about his S*#%!
Featuring
Jah Movement
Jah Movement burst onto the Florida music scene in May 2015 with their unique reggae sound, and in less than a year had taken the circuit by storm, winning the hearts of fans young and old alike. Lead vocalist Damie Caines, formerly of popular band 'Democracy', offers his unique sound to Jah Movement's incredible music, while Shantel Norman - one of the most popular female vocalists in Southwest Florida - leaves audiences with their jaws on the floor, thanks to her incredible talent that's won her multiple awards.Their accolades speak for themselves; Manasota Honors 2021 Musical Artist of the Year, Creative Loafing’s 2019, 2018, & 2016 Best Reggae Band in the Florida Tampa Bay Area, and runner-up of the 2017 Best Reggae Band in the Florida Tampa Bay Area.
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But Jah Movement's success is not just down to their impressive awards. This talented group of musicians from the South West Florida region bring individuality to every show, showcasing a diverse range of styles from R&B to funk and soul, making for an unforgettable performance for audiences of all ages. It's no wonder they've had the privilege of opening for greats like Ky-Mani Marley, Inner Circle, and Black Uhuru.​
@jahmovementband