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The Tampa Tribune

Published: August 15, 2008

The Wearable Art Show is as hot as Florida's dog days of summer.

The boutique-style artist showcase hits the runway Saturday at the Dunedin Fine Art Center. Returning artists include Katy Long, Rogerio Martins, Frank Strunk III and Ben Chmura.

"It's an interesting show," said Chmura, a fashion designer and graduate of Dunedin High School. He will unveil his latest clothing collection, "Azteca," featuring natural fibers. "Fashion is wearable art and it's a great way to showcase something, and participating is my way of giving back."

The first Wearable Art event in 2005 was created to increase foot traffic at the center during slow summer months.

"We didn't think people would come to the show. We had this tiny little stage and a small runway," said Kaya Parwanicka, assistant curator. "But hundreds of people came and we didn't know what to do."

The show has since upgraded its runway and seating, and it continues to sell out each year.

"The first year, we found the designers. Now we get so many calls and e-mails from designers, we had to put together an application," said Parwanicka. "It's pretty amazing."

The collections resemble a "Project Runway" challenge on Bravo. Difference is, all the artists at Wearable Art are "in." None are "out."

Although functional clothing will be on display, many collections include nontraditional materials such as candy, feathers and plastic bottles.

"Your creativity is not limited with this show," said Rogerio Martins, who will present his collection "Terra Brasilis" (Brazil Land), which is inspired by his home country. "It's fun and, as an artist, you have to challenge yourself. There are a lot of talented people in Tampa."

Designer Courtney Davis heard the buzz and saw pictures from last year's Wearable Art Show and wanted in. This weekend she will collaborate with Jennifer Stachon, designer and classmate at The Art Institute of Tampa. The duo will unveil a parade of candy-infused threads.

"When we design, there are rules, and with this show if you can think it, you can do it," said Davis. "If you want to see outrageous, pure fun and excitement, you need to come to this show."

Sarah Hoye

Wearable Art Show; 9 p.m. Saturday (7:30 p.m. preparty, 10:30 p.m. after-party featuring live music by Have Gun Will Travel); $15; Dunedin Fine Art Center, 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin; (727) 298-3322

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