Visit Tampa Bay is exclusive Destination Sponsor for the 2025 London Art Fair, taking place this month.
It is part of Visit Tampa Bay’s $1 million-plus marketing campaign in London that showcases the region’s art as a platform to inspire UK travelers to visit the region.
At the heart of Tampa Bay’s presence at the fair is local artist Ya La’ford.
Her artwork, a cornerstone of the sponsorship, will be prominently featured at the fair.
“It’s a tremendous honor to represent Tampa Bay at the 2025 London Art Fair,” said La’ford.
“Reflecting the unique history and culture of our region, the Bay area art scene is a vibrant and dynamic tapestry.”
La’ford and Santiago C. Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay, will be featured in a panel discussion alongside London-based artist Jason Bruges.
They will discuss the impact of public art on communities.
Bruges has an installation in Tampa with more to come.
“One of Tampa Bay’s most striking characteristics is the art that incorporates Tampa’s eclectic history and culture,” said Corrada.
“We’ve seen firsthand art’s power to connect us to one another, transforming strangers into neighbors and turning neighborhoods into communities.”
Also, Tampa Bay lifelong resident and artist, Dylan Perry, will lead two interactive art activities outside of the Fair.
The London Art Fair partnership is one of several initiatives under Visit Tampa Bay’s London marketing campaign.
There are out-of-home advertising placements in key locations like Waterloo and Euston stations, as well as taxi wraps and digital billboards.
Additionally, activations are planned for major travel trade shows.
The campaign also leverages digital tactics, including collaborations with Expedia and Skyscanner, to engage travel planners.
In addition to the London Art Fair, Tampa Bay is spotlighted during the Brentford Football Club’s matches and through exclusive media events, including a cultural showcase at the Swan at the Globe.
“Key partnerships with the London Art Fair and Brentford FC are invaluable for reminding our international friends that Tampa Bay is ready to play,” said Corrada.
Running from January 22-26, the London Art Fair provides a platform to highlight Tampa Bay’s artistic talent through the works of La’ford and Perry.
