We are thrilled to share exciting news from City Hall this month: OSE Artist Enclave grant‑writing team recently attended the Level Up Arts Grant Review Meeting to represent our Young Artists Program and answer questions from city representatives. Their presentation was met with enthusiasm, appreciation, and genuine praise for the work happening right here in Old Southeast.
City officials highlighted the strength of our program, commending OSNA · Old Southeast Neighborhood Association and the Artist Enclave for our measurable goals, community impact, and commitment to youth arts education. One representative even shared that the “OSE Artists Enclave Youth Program is one of our success stories.”
Even better, the city expressed strong support for arts programming—especially youth initiatives—and celebrated the fact that we were awarded funding for the second year in a row. This continued support is a powerful affirmation of the work our artists, volunteers, and families are doing together.
A Neighborhood Rooted in Creativity
The Old Southeast Neighborhood is proud to be a designated Artist Enclave Overlay District overwhelmingly supported by residents in a 2013 vote. The designation was officially granted by the City of St. Petersburg in 2014.
This special status allows OSE artists to enrich our neighborhood by using their homes as:
- Work studios
- Artist lofts
- Galleries
- Instructional spaces
Old Southeast is one of only two neighborhoods in St. Petersburg with this designation—the other being Historic Kenwood. This distinction continues to shape our identity as a vibrant, creative, and welcoming community.
The Young Artists Program: Growing the Next Generation
In 2025, we launched the Young Artists Program, an initiative designed to connect children with professional artists living in Old Southeast. The program was honored with the City of St. Petersburg Level Up 2025 and 2026 Arts Grant, and today it continues to flourish.
We now have more than 20 young participants, each exploring creativity through mentorship, hands‑on learning, and exposure to the arts. The renewed Level Up grant ensures we can continue expanding opportunities for youth in 2026 and beyond.
A New Citywide Arts Partnership on the Horizon
Recently, we connected with Franklin Alves, President of CONA, who expressed strong interest in partnering with both Old Southeast and Historic Kenwood on a new citywide arts initiative. His vision is inspiring:
“The CONA Arts Committee is a special committee created by the previous president. Art is deeply interconnected with how people experience a sense of place, belonging, and community, and our neighborhoods are at their best when that identity is visible and shared.” — Franklin Alves, CONA President
Franklin shared that one of his goals for the year is to strengthen the relationship between the arts, neighborhood associations, and the broader community. This mission aligns beautifully with the work of our Artist Enclave and opens the door to meaningful collaboration.
Looking Ahead With Gratitude
We are energized by the possibilities ahead and deeply grateful for the support that makes this work possible. Thank you to everyone who is part of, support, and represent the Artist Enclave—your creativity, passion, and presence continue to shape our community in powerful ways.
This achievement belongs to all of us, and we can’t wait to share more as these partnerships and programs continue to grow.
Find more at OSE Artist Enclave Facebook Page