Four years ago, Digital Den launched a new frontier in Seminole’s public recreation. The nonprofit studio and learning center “found in an unlikely place” hit delete on a slew of stereotypes and has helped mold the minds of future tech professionals.
Founded by Mark Ely, Seminole’s community development director, Digital Den set up shop in a space that once housed ping-pong and pool tables. He installed 10 Apple computers with programs for digital sketching, sculpting, photo and video editing, 2D and 3D animation, comic book creation, game design and even programming mobile apps.
The enterprising program brought digital arts to the community by offering affordable instructional classes and day-long workshops for creators of all ages. Creative and IT professionals could visit during “open den” hours to check out equipment and finish projects.
Ely and his posse of instructors and tech professionals implemented a cutting-edge array of subjects, including 2D game design, digital sculpting and customizing Minecraft to kids and adults in a predominantly suburban, retiree community not typically known for tech innovation.
Unfortunately, the Digital Den is currently in hibernation mode, but the facility is being utilized for a virtual learning program. Becky Gunter, Seminole’s recreation director, said that five hubs are available for students whose parents opted for Pinellas County Virtual School.
“So far, it’s working out great,” she added.
As for a Digital Den version 3.0: “We would love to revive it,” Gunter said. “We are currently looking for instructors who might be interested to teach in a recreation-based setting. Classes would be mainly evenings and Saturdays.”
To find out more about Digital Den and Seminole’s Virtual Learning program, email Recreation Director Becky Gunter at bgunter@myseminole.com.
