It’s a prestigious moment in an artist’s career to be invited to stay at the Hermitage Artist Retreat on Manasota Key, where he or she will work on a project and also contribute in some way to the local community. Illustrator John Pirman was captivated by the historic cottages and seaside setting when he visited a choreographer friend staying there. “I could understand how this tranquil place stirs the soul and brings out the creative best in its guests,” he says.