Given that tourists flock to Anna Maria Island in pursuit of the white beaches and year-round sun, the island’s art scene tends to be overlooked by visitors. I tend to pursue art wherever I am, and perhaps for that reason I was able to find a thriving art scene on the island. It’s there for anyone who looks for it. The following are a few of my artistic favorites that tourists unwittingly forsake in favor of sand and surf.
I’ve never seen anything quite like the Village of the Arts in downtown Bradenton, home to over 30 local artists who live and work together in VOA’s 240 residential structures. The 42 acres of property dedicated to the Village of the Arts includes 15 homes occupied by artists, 30 galleries, 2 independent bookstores, and 3 cafes. With quaint cottages decked out in tropical colors, unique galleries at every turn, and an ever-evolving list of exhibits and events, there’s always something happening at the VOA. My personal favorite? The Art Walks on the first Friday of every month. There’s something so pleasant about evening stroll through an artists’ village filled with open-house galleries. The great atmosphere is enhanced by wine, finger food, and live music.
The Studio at Gulf and Pine is another venue where local artists of all types tend to congregate. This 4,000 square-foot gallery in Anna Maria is owned by Rhea Chiles, the former First Lady of Florida. Chiles’ studio includes an artists’ salon, a large variety of exhibits, lectures for the community and classes for artists of all abilities. My favorite aspect of the Studio is its all-inclusiveness. This isn’t just a place for those who mold clay or put paint to canvas. The Studio is a meeting point for all types of artistic expression. That means that poets, writers, live performers, and musicians are all welcome to exhibit their work at the Studio or simply exchange creative ideas. For those of us who love art but are not creative types, we can simply enjoy the atmosphere at the Studio. There’s a heady energy of inspiration here that simply isn’t found anywhere else on the island.
Another must-see in the island’s art world is the Anna Maria Island Art League in Holmes Beach. Smaller than the Village of the Arts and The Studio at Gulf and Pine, Anna Maria Island Art League was founded by a group of artists whose primary goal was bringing art to the community. There are galleries, exhibitions, and art classes for all ages. I happen to love the art library as well as public grounds. The League’s best events, however, are also its most lively: they sponsor two fine arts and fine crafts festivals each year, with food, entertainment, and a near excess of art. The sheer amount of creativity on display at these festivals is astounding; these events remain favorites with this particular author.
When planning our trip to this lovely Florida Gulf coast island, we always book with Anna Maria Island Vacation Rentals – the leaders in luxury accommodation.
Believe it or not, I’ve only given you a small sample of the art happenings on Anna Maria Island. The truth is, Anna Maria is abuzz with art all year long. For more information on theater, culture, and the arts in Anna Maria’s the three island communities, look here. Careful, though. With so much going on in the island’s art world, you may forget about the beach altogether.
By Becky
Photo :stidlundphotos , Photo 2:65mb, Photo 3:SarasotaRE, Photo 4:stidlundphotos, Photo 5:CINDYQUINN2011
