What was once a nondescript white wall between The Bilmar Beach Resort and Sloppy Joe’s on the Beach, is now a shimmering blue mural called “Aquatic Reverie.”
The beaches join The City of St. Petersburg in featuring several clever and arresting images painted on the sides of buildings that capture the attention of locals and visitors alike. Visual artist Chris Soria spent five days in August sketching a sea turtle that seems to swim towards the viewer in a three-dimensional effect.
“We wanted an image that celebrates the diverse aquatic sea life we enjoy in the Tampa Bay area and to bring attention to the community’s responsibility to protect the delicate eco-system,” said Clyde Smith, General Manager of The Bilmar Beach Resort.
Soria works in a variety of mediums, including painting, photomontage and mixed-media, is an active muralist in New York City and leads mural projects with Groundswell Community Mural Project, bringing together artists, youth, and community organizations, using art as a tool for social change.
Self-taught, this talented artist began painting as a child growing up in Brooklyn, encouraged by friends and family, later receiving his BFA from Parsons School of Design. In 2012, Soria lead a mural at The International Culinary Center in dedication of Chef Jacques Pepin. Check out his work on Instagram: @Chrissoria or visit https://www.artistaday.com/?p=17201
The completion of the first mural on the beaches comes a month before St. Pete’s annual SHINE Mural Festival, October 6-14, an art project developed by the St. Pete Arts Alliance that illuminates the power of art in public spaces by revitalizing areas, inspiring dialogue and uniting the community—while cultivating new standards of artistic excellence and reflecting St. Petersburg’s creative and vibrant spirit.
Soria has three murals in St. Pete, two at Wings Bookstore, 4500 4th St. N., titled “Hydro Constellation” and “Metaphysical Geometry” and “Parallel Dawn” at 5th Ave. N. and Dr. M.L.K., Jr. Street. View “Aquatic Reverie” at Sloppy Joe’s on the Beach at The Bilmar Beach Resort, 10650 Gulf Blvd, Treasure Island, FL 33706.