Suntan Art Center: New Home and Vibrant Offerings 

Since its completion in the late 1920s, the Don Vista building has been many different things. It began as a temporary residence for Thomas Rowe, who oversaw the building of the Don CeSar, then became its administrative offices and bank. When the US Army took over the site during WWII, it transformed into offices for doctors. It housed the Fisheries and Wildlife Library. It hosted the St. Pete Beach fire truck in the section that later became a boutique gift shop and gallery. Finally, in 1984, it became the home of the Suntan Art Center. The arts organization resided in the building for over four decades…until the hurricanes of 2024.  

Helene wreaked havoc on the area; St. Pete Beach is still in the process of recovery. Its crown jewel, the Don CeSar, only just reopened in April. Due to extensive damage, buildings housing city hall, the police station, and other pivotal services are still being repaired, and the Don Vista has returned to an earlier incarnation: it is currently the temporary St. Pete Beach fire station. The parking lot has been converted into makeshift quarters and an easement has been added for the trucks.

While emergency services obviously take priority, what does this mean for the displaced artists of the Suntan Art Center?

“We’ve been advised it may be up to two years before we can return,” says Lori Clark, Suntan’s bookkeeper, one of three employees for the center.

A solution to Suntan’s homelessness came from Sara Harned, the board’s vice president. “We are incredibly grateful that she welcomed us into her newly purchased building after the hurricanes,” says Lori. 

This new space, located at 411 19th Street S, also has a rich legacy. It was once Florida Furs, established by George Manos in 1946. The business was connected in partnerships with Rutland’s Department Store, which now houses Florida CraftArt and the ArtLofts Gallery and Studios, and with Maas Brothers, now the site of St. Petersburg College’s Downtown Center. It eventually expanded to include retail fur sales and cold storage. The building remained in the family until Florida Furs and Leather closed its doors in May 2018. 

Today, it has become a new home for the arts, shared with Sara’s “Dragonflyz Studio,” a working artist space.

“Upon moving in, the building required significant work,” Lori explains. “It was previously occupied by a squatter and painted entirely black. Thanks to Sara’s unwavering support, we’ve restored it beautifully with fresh paint, new lighting, and air conditioning. By January 2025 – just three months post-hurricane – we were proudly hosting our monthly Member Shows once again.” 

But in keeping with the new, the receptions are combined with St. Petersburg’s Second Saturday Artwalk. The Suntan also re-established its boutique and gift shop, now open Friday through Sunday.

“The support from our members and local neighbors has been heartwarming,” says Lori.  “Most members have renewed their support, and we’ve received nothing but encouragement throughout our rebuilding process.” 

Some of their other activities include a monthly Central Avenue Pop-Up for artist showcases, a robust schedule of workshops, plus night classes. President Bill Dunn is pleased with the progress, particularly the growing number of attendees. He also muses about future use of the space, perhaps expanding into more artist studios. There are discussions about adding a mural to the building’s façade, a real sign of permeance for the center. 

So, what happens when Suntan’s former home becomes available again? 

“We eventually hope to operate both locations to serve our growing community,” says Lori. “We are thankful for those who are part of our journey; we are excited for what lies ahead. Whether you’re an artist, an enthusiast, or a community supporter, there’s a place for you at the Suntan Art Center.”

For a full lineup of classes and workshops, volunteer opportunities, membership and more, go to suntanart.org.