“The Arts Center was the first organization to welcome my wife and me when we returned to St. Petersburg in 1978. It was the first place to show the work of a potter just getting started in the field and the first place to invite me to teach. We became more and more involved with the Arts Center and its committed staff, community of local artists and supporters. “I served on the board for 14 years, including a term as President. It was an exciting time when we moved from the tiny historic building on 7th Street to a new spacious home on Central Avenue. “Over the years I exhibited my own work and curated my first exhibitions, Major Mud I and II. I worked at the Arts Center for a time teaching, serving as clay studio coordinator and then involved in building and programming the Hot Shop. I appreciate the opportunities this organization has given me over the years, not the least of which was introducing me to wonderful people in this community, many of whom remain close friends of ours today.”

Collection of Beth Reynolds