Painting the Dolphins--Teenage Involvement in the RNC

News provided by

Jul 25, 2012, 03:14 ET

TAMPA, Fla., July 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- To welcome guests for the 2012 Republican National Convention (RNC), local artists will apply their own style and creativity, painting 50 identical life-sized dolphin sculptures that will be displayed at Pier 60 Park from August 6 to September 4. Sponsored by the Sheraton Sand Key Resort, one of the 50 bottlenose dolphins will be painted by two young artists, Emily Harris, age 16, and Alyssa Neuman, age 18.

The art project is sponsored by the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce. The idea was rooted in the worldwide attention inspired by Winter, the dolphin, a local hero who starred in the Warner Brothers picture, Dolphin Tale.

"We are excited to be part of this project and I still can't believe we were chosen to paint one of the dolphins," said Emily Harris. "Our vision is to portray Winter, the dolphin as an artist with a knack for painting." Complete with a palate, an artistic brush and a classic beret, Harris and Neuman have created a beautifully painted dolphin that captures the lasting memory of the Clearwater Dolphin pod for prosperity.

The young artists were invited to participate on behalf of the Sheraton Sand Key Resort and when the show ends, the dolphin will be relocated to the resort. "We're in the hospitality business and we all know that our guests are excited to arrive at our beautiful beach. But to be greeted by 50 Dolphins, each with a special personality makes a statement that this beautiful area is all about fun!" says Russ Kimball, Manager of the resort.

While many of the dolphins will be painted by local professional artists, Sheraton Sand Key felt that sharing the experience with young people would set a positive tone consistent with the objectives of the Chamber of Commerce effort.

The Sheraton Sand Key Resort has served the Clearwater Beach area as one of the leading hotels in the state. Recognized for legendary hospitality, on one of America's most recognized beaches, the Sheraton Sand Key will host the Illinois and Oregon delegations for the RNC this fall. For more information, contact Marilyn Triassi at the Sheraton Sand Key Resort, 727-593-6002, www.sheratonsandkey.com.

SOURCE Sheraton Sand Key Resort