Art is everywhere in Sarasota and Manatee. Just take a walk through the streets, and you’ll see colorful murals, unique sculptures, and galleries full of creative work.
But beyond what’s on display, these counties are home to incredible art centers that keep creativity alive. The art Centers of Sarasota and Manatee are at the center of it all. Whether you’re an artist, an admirer, or just looking for something inspiring to do, these spaces offer a front-row seat to the local art scene.
Art Center Sarasota
- Location: 707 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
- Gallery Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (During Weekdays); Saturday: 12 PM – 5 PM
The Sarasota Art Center started out as a movement led by Marcia Rader, an art supervisor for Sarasota’s school system, who saw the need for a dedicated space where artists could meet, exhibit their work, and inspire others. Today, it has grown into a member-funded organization that offers all sorts of interesting events, from exhibitions to classes to workshops.
Art Center Sarasota has four galleries, and they’re always rotating, so you’ll always see something new and interesting. They feature local, regional, and international artists, so you’ll get a real sense of the diverse art world out there.
Art should be for everyone, and Art Center Sarasota ensures that it is. Admission is completely free, though donations are always appreciated to help support programming.
The Art Center Sarasota also doubles as a place to learn and create. They offer all sorts of classes and workshops for adults and kids. For example, you might be interested in learning more about painting or drawing. Or maybe you’ve always wanted to try your hand at sculpture or photography.
Whatever your interest, Art Center Sarasota has a class or workshop that can help you get started. And because they offer classes for all skill levels, from novice to professional, you’ll feel right at home.
Aside from the classes, Art Center Sarasota also hosts a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year, from juried competitions to artist talks. You can attend a lecture or demonstration, or participate in a workshop or class. You can even rent the space for your own event or party.
Art Center Manatee
- Location: 209 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205.
- Hours: Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm.
The Art Center Manatee is a 10,000-square-foot facility that is packed with everything an art lover could hope for. There are three galleries with rotating exhibits, five classrooms where over 3,000 students learn every year, a dedicated art library with thousands of volumes, and the LiveArtFully Market.
Time and again, the Herald Tribune and Bradenton Herald have named it the best art gallery in the area, and it’s pretty easy to see why once you visit.
One of the standout features of ArtCenter Manatee is its monthly rotating exhibitions, which showcase the work of over 2,000 local, regional, and national artists. The opening receptions, usually held on Thursdays from 5:00-7:00 PM, are free and open to the public, so if you love art and want to mingle with artists, be sure to be at the center during these times.
If you’re looking for something to do with the kids, the center offers a range of classes and workshops specifically designed for children and adults. You and the kids can learn the basics of painting, try your hand at pottery, or even design your own jewelry.
They also offer over 300 classes and workshops year-round, covering everything from painting and drawing to pottery, jewelry design, and photography. If you’re staying in Manatee for a long time, you might want to consider becoming a member of the art center. As a member, you’ll enjoy discounted classes, access to open studio time, and the chance to support the arts in your community.
Find Your Home Near Sarasota & Manatee County’s Eclectic Art Scene With Jennette Properties
If art is part of your world, why not live where it thrives? At Jennette Properties, we’ll help you find a home that puts you right in the middle of Sarasota and Manatee’s art scene.
Art Center Sarasota and ArtCenter Manatee bring together artists, dreamers, and anyone who loves a little inspiration in their daily lives. We want you to enjoy all of this with just a short walk from your front door.
Get in touch with us today to find a home that’s close to the perfection that is Sarasota and Manatee art centers.
