Art News: ‘American Idol,’ St. Petersburg Book Releases

TAMPA BAY, FL — The arts community in the greater Tampa Bay area continues to thrive, with plenty of exhibits, events and programs to keep you busy.

Here's everything you need to know about the latest arts and entertainment news from the region.

Conyer Walker Reflects On 'American Idol,' Country Music

The Sarasota native, who currently lives in Lakewood Ranch, plans to move to Nashville next year to grow his music career.

Women Who Overcome Patriarchy Focus Of 'Rising And Other Stories'

St. Petersburg author Gale Massey has launched a new book, "Rising and Other Stories," that she will speak about at Tombolo Books.

St. Pete's Rod Wave Goes From Gangs To No. 1 Album In U.S.

Singer and songwriter Rod Wave, who is a 2017 graduate of Lakewood High School, has made it to No. 1 for the first time on Billboard 200.

Frank Strunk III Studio Moves To Warehouse Arts District

Metal sculpture artist, Frank Strunk, said he likes working at his new location because he is surrounded by hardworking artists.

Pride Walk Street Mural Spreads Message Of Unity Downtown

Project Pride SRQ unveiled a colorful crosswalk mural at a major downtown Sarasota intersection Sunday.

Lakewood Ranch Singer's Eliminated From 'American Idol'

Alana Sherman's time on ABC's televised singing competition has come to an end. She made it to the Top 24.

Nudists, Smugglers, Drag Queens All In 'The Thing About Florida'

Tyler Gillespie's new book tells stories of unconventional Floridians including nudists, pet smugglers, cattle ranchers and drag queens.

Upcoming Arts Events:

• Tito Nieves concert, Saturday, 5 p.m., at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 McKinley Drive, Tampa
• Dirty Dozen Brass Band concert, Saturday, 8 p.m., Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater
• Steinway Piano Series: USF Piano Competition, Sunday, 4 p.m., at University of South Florida, 4202 East Fowler Ave., Tampa
• En Vogue concert, Sunday, 5 p.m., at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 McKinley Drive, Tampa
• Teen Creative Writing Club Zoom meeting, Tuesday, 4 p.m., this virtual meeting is offered through the Dunedin Public Library
• Stand Pup Comedy Night benefitting SPCA Tampa Bay, Tuesday, 8 p.m., virtual event
• Tyler Gillespie author reading, Thursday, 7 p.m., a virtual event from the Gulfport Public Library’s LGBTQ Resource Center
• Spring Dance Concert, Thursday, 7:30 p.m., at Hillsborough Community College’s Mainstage Theatre, 1411 East 11th Ave., Tampa