“Art gives you more than just something to look at—it gives you connection, stimulation, and a reason to keep growing, no matter your age.”
Volunteer Spotlight: Darla Hare – A Decade of Dedication to Spiva Center for the Arts
By Kris Strausbaugh | Spiva’s Guest Experience Specialist
For the past ten years, Darla Hare has been a welcoming face at the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts. A longtime volunteer, Darla’s journey to Spiva began with a love for photography. After retiring, she heard about PhotoSpiva through word-of-mouth and visited the center, quickly falling in love with the exhibitions and the creative energy of the space. Soon after, she began volunteering—just as Kerstin Landwer took over as interim director—and grew alongside the organization she now proudly serves.
Darla has contributed to nearly every corner of Spiva: working the welcome desk, helping with clerical projects, and supporting exhibitions like PhotoSpiva, 1000 Words, the Membership Show, and Small Works. Her first painting entry—after years of photography—won her the Best Floral or Still Life award in 2022, marking a memorable highlight in her Spiva story.
When asked why Spiva matters, Darla reflects: “Art is important to an individual. It’s not just about work or family—it’s about mental and emotional stimulation. Every community is stronger with a durable art presence. It adds to the conversations and connections we have with one another.”
To those considering volunteering, Darla encourages giving it a try, even if you’re new to art. “Once you get to know the people and the routine, it becomes familiar, becomes fun. Especially if you’re retired, it brings structure, connection, and even sparks your own creativity.”
Darla’s insights show how Spiva’s mission—to celebrate the creative experience—comes to life through its people. Whether welcoming visitors or engaging in her own work, she helps build a space where everyone, artist or otherwise, feels like they belong.
Darla’s Quick Fire Favorites
· Favorite Local Artist: Andrew Batcheller
· Global Favorite: Salvador Dalí
· Favorite Medium: Watercolor
· Favorite Museum: Salvador Dalí Museum, St. Petersburg, FL
· First Art Love: Water Lilies by Monet
· One Word for Spiva: Necessary
· Favorite Event: Membership Show
· Creative Hobbies: Photography, painting, drawing
Check out some of Darla’s past 1000 Words Poetry & Prose readings here: