Imagine. The equivalent of more than 175 fine art galleries in one world-renowned and easily accessible spot, noted for its natural beauty, upscale shops and award-winning restaurants, not to mention historical significance. Local galleries and cafés join in the festivities with a twice-annual sidewalk sale. Add a diversity of musical entertainers and nearly 10,000 revelers spilling out onto the streets. Some are on a family outing, complete with pets in tow. Others are couples... young and old, strolling hand-in-hand. Many visitors have come from across the country and the world. Everyone is invited and admission is free.
Only in Sarasota can you experience this eclectic display in such a uniquely cultural setting. And only on St. Armands Circle.
For over 20 years, the Annual St. Armands Art Festival has wowed locals and visitors. Held in October, during the peak of beautifully balmy weather in Southwest Florida, in the "Cultural Capital" of the state, the festival boasts some of the country's most lauded artists and artisans. It's no wonder this first-class outdoor art fest is rated among the nation's top 100 out of more than 10,000 and is well-attended each year.
The juried fine art show attracts local and national submissions from potters, painters, photographers, sculptors and jewelry makers, to name a few. From $25 hand-designed earrings and $50 prints, to $20,000 metal sculptures, the array of original artwork covers nearly the full spectrum of budgets and mediums.
Find blown glassware from martini glasses to wine glasses and decanters. Artful serving plates and trays, stone wine coolers, wearable fabric art and more illustrate that art can indeed be functional.
Unlike in a typical gallery setting, all of the artists will be at the festival with their artwork, giving visitors a rare opportunity to chat with them, learn about their art and their inspiration, and, of course, purchase or commission original pieces. Watch, listen and learn. You might gain an understanding of what makes them tick and perhaps draw out your own inner artist.
If you go:
Free parking is available in a number of areas: As you enter the circle, on Adams Drive, just past the St. Armands Key Lutheran Church to the left or right; and behind the shops on both sides of Adams Drive in the Aqua and Gold quadrants. For more information about the Annual St. Armands Art Festival, call the St. Armands Circle Association at 941-388-1554 or visit www.starmandscircleassoc.com/events.cfm.
