7 minute read
Bob Devin Jones / Studio @620
After two delicious decades at The Studio @620, Bob Devin Jones says "Yes" to retirement.
BY CINDY STOVALL
Bob Devin Jones, sporting his dapper trademark chapeau and scarf, is reflective as he sits at his desk in the office above the gallery that is The Studio @620. All around are the artifacts of 20 years spent building one of the most consequential multi-use arts spaces in St. Petersburg – the experiment cultivated lovingly with friend and co-founder, the late Dave Ellis in 2004. Multiple awards fill the cupboard. Posters and artwork cover the walls. Books are, well, everywhere. A key to the city rests on the shelf.
Some big dreams have been born and realized at 620 1st Avenue South over the last two decades — recognizing it as a fertile ground for original ideas to germinate and for stars to emerge.
The actor, director, playwright, poet, and leader, affectionately known as “Bobby” to those close to him, discusses the decision to step away from the Artistic Directorship @620, future plans, and some favorite memories and moments of pride during his very prolific tenure at the Studio.
The Decision Process
After conducting more than a few interviews over the years, you learn that Bob Devin Jones delights in elucidating a point with song lyrics and metaphors – to great effect. He quotes Boyz ll Men. “We’ve come to the end of the road, and I can’t let go,” he sings. “But the fact is, I can let go. It’s like my mother’s cornbread recipe. At some point, you know when you can’t improve the recipe any further.”
“Twenty years seemed like a nice round number, and when Erica (Sutherlin) expressed interest in being considered for the directorship @620 when/if I was ready to retire, I knew it was a gift. There was no doubt, no list, no other choice in my mind.
"She was it, and that made the decision to step aside easier for me. Of course, the board of trustees was responsible for making the ultimate decision, but as they got to know her, they came to the same conclusion, and I am jubilant.”
Studio 620 board chair Amber Brinkley is navigating the transition with optimism. “I think the next chapter of the studio is bright,” she says. “Bob and the Studio have already done so much to contribute to the renaissance of St. Pete. We want to build on that. With the buying of our building, we are permanently grounded downtown. It’s an opportunity to introduce ourselves to new residents coming to our area and to re-introduce ourselves to our longtime supporters.”
Health considerations have also factored into Devin Jones’ decision to retire. Fans and friends were alarmed at the height of the pandemic, when he suffered serious illness due to Covid19, resulting in an ICU stay. “During recovery I noticed what I thought were lingering symptoms,” he admits, “my gait had changed, my voice, my handwriting. The doctor said these were not Covid related. I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.”
Since diagnosis, Devin Jones has set a course to improve his health and battle symptom progression. “I have a trainer, made diet changes, a medication regime, and the support of my husband (Jamie Howell). Through this and through all these years at the Studio he has been, as Bette would say, the wind beneath my wings.”
A Rich Legacy – A Community Voice
Without doubt or debate, Bob Devin Jones and The Studio @620 have been foundational in building St. Petersburg’s current status as an arts mecca. When the answer is always “Yes,” as it is with Devin Jones, a wide variety of artists and offerings find their voice @620.
Emphasis on diversity, inclusivity, and community have always been a priority at the Studio. When asked about sources of particular pride, Devin Jones speaks of mainstays like Midtown Through Our Eyes – Journeys in Journalism, an annual exhibit featuring work by Title 1 school students – an ongoing program for18 years.
Radio Theatre Project, monthly staged radio shows begun by Mimi Rice 17 years ago, and continued by actor, Bonnie Agan, are a community favorite. The Studio was one of the first galleries in Tampa Bay to exhibit work by The Florida Highwaymen in 2005 and continues the tradition, including the recent La Florida ReFound exhibit which opened February 17.
Many of Devin Jones’ own plays and works have been produced over the years – “C” a water narrative, and Uncle Bends: A HomeCooked Negro Narrative, being two of his favorites.
Numerous talents got their start at The Studio@620. A few examples:
As an emerging visual artist, Jake Troyli had his first gallery show at @620 in 2013. Since then, Troyli’s work has gained international recognition, and commissions are wait-listed. He earned residencies in France and the Northeast, and is represented by a blue-chip gallery in Chicago.
Professional dancer Alexander Jones is now director and founder of Project Alchemy, the successful Tampa Bay-based dance academy. His first show, as a student, was @620. Even St. Pete’s beloved freeFall Theatre got its unofficial start by presenting its very first production of The Wild Party at the Studio in 2008.
“What we have learned over the years, is that the creative ecology in St. Petersburg is rich,” says Devin Jones. “We’ve said yes to them, and they have said yes to us.”
Passing the Baton
On July 1, Erica Sutherlin steps into the artistic directorship of The Studio @620. She brings her experience as a PCCA instructor of nine years, a dancer, performer, film director, and theater administrator to her new role. “My goal is to reflect the communities as a whole, and to grow,” says Sutherlin.
“We’ll continue to develop signature, professionally produced events reflecting all genres, and to help develop artists in residence. That’s how we can support arts education in the community –by creating a bridge between new artists or arts graduates and flourishing professional practice. Bob is family to me and I want to honor his legacy while pursuing my own vision.”
Dedicated staff like marketing director Coralette Damme (aka The Crafty Hag), and maker of magic, studio manager Marcus Wehby will continue in their roles.
Happily, Devin Jones plans to keep roots planted here in St. Petersburg, as he has since 1997, with partner Jamie Howell. “Of course, we will be spending more time at our beautiful lake house in Syracuse,” he explains, “and we are planning more world travel and visiting friends around the country.”
At home, he plans to remain a fixture in the arts scene, possibly serving as a Studio board member. He will also continue his Indigo Jones column in The Artisan Magazine and, in an exciting bit of foreshadowing, Devin Jones shared that he is working with St. Petersburg Press on his memoir. “I’d also be open to directing more productions,” he says. “My acting days are done, but I love to direct.”
When asked if there were any regrets, Bob Devin Jones sighed and said, “regrets, I’ve had a few — but then again, too few to mention.”
He always did know how to end an interview.
Thank you, Bob, for two delicious decades.
To find out what’s happening at The Studio, go to thestudioat620.org
