Artists Corner: Peggie Lax

Stop by the Carrollwood Cultural Center, and one thing is clear: local artists are making their mark in Tampa Bay.

One of those artists is Peggie Lax, a former ballerina who has displayed her artwork at the Center, 4537 Lowell Road, among other locations.

We talked to Lax of Wesley Chapel about what her work means and how the community can contact her to see it.

Patch: How did you get your start as an artist?

Lax: I was a former ballerina. I was also the show director and choreographer for Busch Gardens for 17 years. I decided to turn my artistic expressions from the performing arts to the graphic arts with the same energy and devotion.  After my retirement, I studied art at the University of South Florida, and found that I enjoyed painting animals, pets and flowers.

Patch: Who or what influences you?

Lax: I have always loved the old masters, both in the graphic and performing arts, and that has made a huge impact in my artistic direction.

Patch: What does your work say about you as a person?

Lax: I as an artist, I am deeply moved by nature and all it has to offer.  Both my performing and graphic arts tell many stories of what brings peace to my soul.

Patch: What are common misconceptions people have about artists?

Lax: I feel as an artist that unless you understand the deep emotions that we feel, we are the same as others, with friends, family and the regular everyday routines of life.  What makes us different is the passion we have for art and how we see things that many don't.

Patch: How can people in Carrollwood see your work?

Lax: The people in Carrollwood can view my art at The Country Club of Hunters Green. I frequently have art displayed at the Carrollwood Cultural Center, and I am also one of the artists shown on the web site of the North Tampa Art League.

I may be reached for consultation by email: bplax@tampabay.rr.com.

If you know an artist who you think should be featured in Artists Corner, email  camille.spencer@patch.com.