‘Eclectic’ Business Puts Art on the Walls

Pat Sanchez isn’t an artist, but she has a passion for helping those with talent show off what they can do. She also loves helping promote local businesses.

That’s why Sanchez launched Everything Eclectic. The new business brings artists, businesses and nonprofits together in what Sanchez hopes will be a perfect marriage for all three.

Everything Eclectic works with local artists to promote their works at local businesses. Venues, such as restaurants, that host the artwork are able to promote the sale of the works and they also gain exposure and business from social events that Sanchez’s company stages. Nonprofits, such as the Art Council of Hillsborough County, also receive donations from Everything Eclectic events.

Sanchez said the business has been well received so far.

“Everybody is co cooperative and helpful,” she said.

Everything Eclectic has an upcoming social event planned in South Tampa. The “Off the Walls” launch takes place May 23 from 5 to 9 p.m. at restaurant, 4205 S. MacDill Ave. There is no charge to attend, but reservations are requested.

The party will enable art lovers to mingle with local artists while getting to know the restaurant. Professional headshots will be offered for $5, psychic Lady Isobel will be on hand and the duo Magicroot will perform. A chance drawing to benefit the Arts Council of Hillsborough County will also take place during the party. The prize is a painting by Susan DosCher, who will create the piece live during the event.

The idea to create Everything Eclectic came from Sanchez’s affiliation with the Ybor Art Association. That organization had a similar program that Sanchez became involved with. She eventually “committed to taking it over and revamping” it, she said.

While Sanchez isn’t an artist herself, she says she loves bringing exposure to others.

“My artistic talent is I have an affinity to be able to put art on the walls and make it flow (like a) symphony,” she said. “I’m kind of like a conductor.”

Everything Eclectic is currently looking for more artists to showcase and new businesses to serve as galleries for local artists’ works.

“We are a for-profit corporation,” she explained. “We work with the artists, kind of like a gallery arrangement. We just have a really big gallery everywhere.”

Artwork put on display is for sale and pieces are rotated on a regular basis. Works are selected especially for each business venue that signs up, Sanchez said.

“Everybody that is tied in to this has an opportunity to further their success,” she said. “We rotate all of the art throughout all the participating venues. The venues always get new art. The artists always get new exposure.”

To reserve a spot for "Off the Walls" or learn more about Everything Eclectic, call 813-578-5709 or email PSanchez33617@yahoo.com. More information is also available on Everything Eclectic’s Facebook page.