Epicurean Hotel’s Epic Showcase of Tampa’s Boldest Artists: Get a Sneak Peek Before the 2026 Gasparilla Festival!

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Epicurean Hotel and the Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts (GFA) are set to honour and celebrate the incredible talent of local artists in Tampa Bay. The 2026 Class of the GFA’s Local Artist Spotlight Program will have a prestigious exhibition at the Epicurean Theatre, with an opening reception on January 17, 2026. This event is not just a showcase of exceptional artwork but also an opportunity for the community to come together and appreciate the creative spirit that defines Tampa Bay.

A New Partnership for Local Artists

This special event marks a new chapter in the relationship between Epicurean Hotel and the Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts. With the help of the Gobioff Foundation, the Local Artist Spotlight Program has been supporting Tampa Bay’s artistic community for years, and this year’s collaboration takes it a step further. For the first time ever, the 2026 class of honorees will be celebrated through a dedicated exhibition at the Epicurean Hotel, highlighting the region’s wealth of creative talent.

The event on January 17 will give art lovers, collectors, and anyone passionate about supporting local culture an intimate first look at the talented artists who will later be featured at the 2026 Gasparilla Festival of the Arts. This is an important milestone for the programme, which serves to elevate artists in the Tampa Bay area, offering them both recognition and exposure.

The Local Artists Spotlight Program: A Stepping Stone for Success

Each year, the Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts selects five exceptional artists from Tampa Bay to participate in the Local Artist Spotlight Program. These artists are awarded a complimentary booth at the prestigious festival, allowing them to showcase and sell their work to a wider audience. The program is a true testament to the commitment to fostering the arts in Tampa Bay and providing local artists with the opportunity to grow and succeed.

This year, the selected artists will not only have their works featured at the festival in February 2026 but will also be celebrated in a special exhibition at the Epicurean Hotel. This exhibition will run from the opening reception on January 17 until February 13, 2026, offering guests plenty of time to explore the unique works of art before the festival.

Meet the 2026 Local Artist Spotlight Honorees

The 2026 Local Artist Spotlight Program has recognised a diverse group of talented individuals across various artistic disciplines. Here are the five outstanding artists who have been chosen for this prestigious honour:

Caitlin Albritton – Jewelry

Caitlin Albritton is a skilled jewelry artist who creates stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces. Her work reflects a deep passion for craftsmanship and design, with each piece being meticulously crafted to embody both beauty and function. Albritton’s pieces often draw inspiration from nature, blending organic shapes with refined detailing. Her work has gained recognition in the Tampa Bay art community, and she is excited to showcase her creations as part of the 2026 Gasparilla Festival of the Arts.

Scott Causey – Sculpture

Scott Causey is a renowned sculptor whose work explores the boundaries between form and space. His sculptures often make use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, to create intricate, thought-provoking pieces that invite viewers to engage with the artwork in a meaningful way. Causey’s work speaks to the interconnectedness of nature and human expression, and his involvement in the Local Artist Spotlight Programme is a testament to his creative vision and commitment to his craft.

Elizabeth Eckels – Sculpture

Another accomplished sculptor, Elizabeth Eckels, is known for her dynamic and expressive works that explore movement, texture, and materiality. Her sculptures often evoke a sense of fluidity, capturing the essence of motion through the manipulation of form. Eckels’ dedication to her art is evident in the precision and innovation that characterise her pieces. Her participation in the 2026 Gasparilla Festival of the Arts will give her the opportunity to share her unique vision with the wider public.

N. Carlos Jay – Painting

N. Carlos Jay is a painter whose vibrant and emotive works tell powerful stories through the use of colour and texture. His artwork often explores themes of identity, culture, and the human experience, drawing from his personal history and the world around him. Jay’s paintings invite viewers to reflect on the complexities of life, while also celebrating the beauty found in everyday moments. As part of the Local Artist Spotlight Programme, Jay will have the chance to showcase his powerful work at one of the most respected art festivals in the region.

Scott Solary – Woodworking

Scott Solary’s woodworking skills are truly exceptional. His pieces are characterised by meticulous craftsmanship and an ability to bring out the natural beauty of wood. Solary’s work ranges from functional objects to intricate sculptures, each one a testament to his dedication to the art of woodworking. His involvement in the Local Artist Spotlight Program is an acknowledgment of his talent and the high regard in which his work is held by both collectors and fellow artisans.

A Night of Celebration: The Opening Reception

The opening reception on January 17, 2026, at the Epicurean Theatre promises to be an unforgettable evening for art enthusiasts and community members alike. From 6:30 to 8:30 PM, guests will have the opportunity to meet the artists, engage with their work, and get a sneak peek of the pieces that will be on display during the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts.

Epicurean Hotel will provide light hors d’oeuvres and beverages, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for guests to mingle and enjoy the vibrant energy of the local arts community. The event serves as an important moment of recognition for the artists, who will be celebrated not only for their skill and creativity but also for their role in shaping the cultural landscape of Tampa Bay.

The exhibition will remain on view until February 13, 2026, giving those who are unable to attend the opening a chance to experience the art in a more leisurely setting. It will be a perfect opportunity to enjoy the work of these exceptional artists before they showcase their creations at the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts in late February.

A Milestone for Tampa Bay’s Artistic Community

This collaboration between Epicurean Hotel and the Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts represents a significant milestone in the cultural development of Tampa Bay. By spotlighting local artists in this way, the programme not only promotes the incredible talent of the region but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the arts within the community.

The Gasparilla Festival of the Arts is one of the most anticipated events on the Tampa Bay cultural calendar, drawing thousands of visitors from across the country. By providing local artists with the opportunity to exhibit their work at such a prestigious event, the Local Artist Spotlight Program plays a vital role in supporting the growth and recognition of Tampa Bay’s artistic community.

The exhibition at Epicurean Hotel takes this commitment to the next level, ensuring that local artists are celebrated in a more intimate, accessible setting before the festival. It also helps to create a strong sense of community and pride around the arts in Tampa Bay, as residents and visitors alike come together to support the talented individuals who call this region home.

Looking Ahead to the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts

The 2026 Gasparilla Festival of the Arts will take place from February 28 to March 1, 2026, and is expected to draw a large crowd of art lovers, collectors, and enthusiasts from all over. The festival will feature works from artists across various disciplines, including painting, sculpture, jewellery, woodworking, and more. For the five Local Artist Spotlight honorees, this is a chance to showcase their work on one of the biggest stages in the region, and it is an opportunity they have worked hard to achieve.

For those who are passionate about supporting the arts and discovering new talent, attending the exhibition at the Epicurean Hotel and the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts is a must. This is an opportunity to not only purchase beautiful, unique pieces of art but also to connect with the artists and learn more about their creative processes and inspirations.

A Celebration of Tampa Bay’s Artistic Spirit

The 2026 Local Artist Spotlight Program is a true celebration of the incredible talent that exists in Tampa Bay. The collaboration between Epicurean Hotel and the Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts is a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting local artists and the cultural richness that they bring to the community.

By showcasing the works of Caitlin Albritton, Scott Causey, Elizabeth Eckels, N. Carlos Jay, and Scott Solary, this initiative ensures that these talented individuals receive the recognition they deserve. Whether you are an art lover, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and creativity that art brings to life, the upcoming events at Epicurean Hotel and the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts will be an unforgettable experience.

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