This week IFDA Florida Chapters were privileged to attend another Meet the Artist event. This is part of a series sponsored by IFDA member Carol Teti-Keesler Manager of the Decorative Crafts showroom at the Design Center of the Americas (DCOTA).
Carol introduced Miami artist Andres Conde and his wife, author, Stacy Conde. Andres welcomed us and gave us a brief synopsis of his work and answered questions from the audience. Stacy talked about her new book, The Red Speck, which was recently published.

Artist Andres Conde and wife Stacy lead us on a gallery tour as IFDA member Michael Alexander looks on.
It was wonderful to see Andres passion for his art and describe the inspiration behind his work.
He had many pieces on display such as these which were done in a cartoon style.
Others came right out of Hollywood movies.
Many had a social issue theme or were done as covers for a Cuban magazine Social.

This Meet the Artist had a great turnout. Caroline Rogow joins the group photo (seen first on the left with Carol Teti-Keesler in the center with Andres and Stacy Conde.)
Afterward we all met in the Decorative Crafts showroom for networking and refreshments. Andre and Stacy even cut the cake!
Carol offered an opportunity for our President Caroline Rogow to say a few words about IFDA and Take a seat.
As we socialized with other designers and artists there began to be a buzz going on about Take a Seat. Artist Andres Conde is excited about creating a chair and loved the idea of helping our veterans! And two other artists are also ready to get on board!
While mingling with the guests Elizabeth Zecca and Caroline Rogow spotted a man who they met at the Miramar Design Center last year. He is now the Marketing Director at DCOTA and is very interested in promoting IFDA. He offered to let us have meetings in their Design Center!
What a fabulous way to have fun and promote IFDA and Take a Seat. It just goes to show all you have to do is get out there and get talking!
To wrap up the afternoon the TAS committee met to discuss the latest plans for our event in October. Everything is falling into place. It’s so exciting. Don’f forget to go to the Florida Take a Seat website. http://ifdatakeaseat.com/about/ifda-florida/ It is amazing and gives you all the information you need to spread the word.
What an amazing event at the Decorative Crafts showroom! The Conde’s made for a very interesting and beautiful couple that is all about living for his art and her writing.