Artists lined Corey Avenue in St. Pete Beach for the annual arts and crafts festival, transforming the street into a massive open-air gallery, FOX 13 reported. Thousands of visitors attended the weekend event to view hundreds of handcrafted pieces and learn the personal stories behind the work.
Community Connections Drive St. Pete Beach Artisans
For many participating creators, the festival functions primarily as a space for community building and sharing creative passions rather than generating revenue. Artists displayed items ranging from paintings to woodwork while discussing their journeys with attendees. Kelly Beale, owner of KBeale Art, began painting four years ago as a therapeutic outlet during personal health struggles. Engaging with visitors brings her joy, and she paints every single evening to soothe her physical well-being, adding that she has avoided hospitalizations for three years.
Industrial Workers Find Creative Outlets
Exhibitors also shared how their artistic pursuits balance demanding day jobs. Todd Atkinson balances a job at an environmental recycling company with running Raw Art Creations, using painting and designing shirts to unwind after handling industrial waste. Similarly, Todd Casey of Mr. Square Designs shifted away from home remodeling to produce wooden vessels following a request to craft a cutting board.
It’s nice to make something nice. Sometimes I impress myself. And you know, when you dip it in the oil, it comes to life,
Casey said.
Corey Avenue Festival Details
- Location: Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach, Florida, Pinellas County
- Event Type: Annual arts and crafts festival and open-air gallery
- Participants: Local creators including Kelly Beale, Todd Atkinson, and Todd Casey
Frequently Asked Questions About the Corey Avenue Art and Craft Festival
What types of items are displayed at the Corey Avenue festival?
Hundreds of pieces line the street, featuring handcrafted creations such as paintings, custom apparel designed by Todd Atkinson, and wooden vessels crafted by Todd Casey.
How does the event impact participating artists?
Creators like Kelly Beale use the festival to share their passion and build community ties, noting that painting serves as a therapeutic outlet that helps manage personal health struggles.
The annual gathering draws thousands of visitors to Pinellas County to support local creators who balance traditional careers with artistic endeavors.