Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County is one of the things that helps keep the gears of this cultural mecca working.

Known as the Cultural Capital of Florida, Sarasota has a vivid arts and culture scene that draws budding and renowned artists alike. From theatre and opera, to live orchestra, to the visual arts that fill a multitude of galleries both downtown and in the surrounding barrier island like Siesta Key, arts in Sarasota are blossoming.

The city’s Arts and Cultural Alliance is in part to thank for that, and its influence can be felt across the county. The group works to promote arts and culture on the coast of Florida, providing arts education, advocacy, artists exhibitions and performances, and grants. They focus on not only the social, but also the economic impact, of the arts, and work to support organizations and collaborate with local groups.

Below is an overview of the Arts and Cultural Alliance and their mission, activities, impact on arts in Sarasota.

Programs, Grants, and Community Support

One of the main, and most public, aspects of the Arts and Cultural Alliance’s work is its community initiatives and programs.

They offer programs, workshops, and general arts education at various facilities in the area. They also offer a number of grants to budding artists. The Alliance also supports the arts by working with small studios, galleries, and community groups. They’ve developed partnerships with businesses and government agencies to donate a percentage of sales to the Alliance to further promote initiatives. The Alliance will also give money back to the small organizations, promote events at their location, and connect them with resources.

Building a Network in Arts and Culture

The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County is clearly well connected with the local arts.

As the leading arts and culture organizations in Sarasota, both visitors and locals can find a wealth of information, including classes, courses, and other experiential learning programs. The Alliance is currently connected with Sarasota Contemporary Dance, which offers a summer programming for kids. Classes include introductory and intermediate dance classes, giving kids the chance to get active and creative this summer full of activities and movement.

A recent collaboration with the Art Ovation Hotel celebrated some fun local artists’ innovations. Another piano was painted for the Sarasota Keys, a public art project in which local artists paint pianos which will be placed for public use in select local businesses.

The Alliance has also works with The Exchange, a non-profit consignment shop that supports the arts in Sarasota. The organization recently awarded $250,000 in grants to Sarasota arts groups, including the Arts and Cultural Alliance. The Exchange is a must-see shop for all visitors wanting keen to see the arts community in action – as well as pick up some neat apparel, furniture, home décor, and other items. The Exchange has been so successful that the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce awarded The Exchange the 2016 Retail Business of the Year.

These are just a few examples of how the Alliance works with both organizations and artists to both give and receive support.

“Florida’s Finest”: Statewide Juried Exhibition

The “Florida’s Finest” exhibition is one of the Alliance’s current events, running from May 34 to July 6. This all-media art show is on display at the Art Center Sarasota (707 N. Tamiami Tr., Sarasota, FL), and is open to the public for the next month and a half. The exhibit is a statewide, juried exhibition that features some of the best mixed-media talent in the state.

This judge-selected, award-winning works of art give visitors a glimpse into the local talent of Sarasota, Siesta Key, and the surrounding area. Some artists will be on location to answer questions.

The opening reception is May 31 from 5 to 7 p.m. A special juried showcase will take place July 12 at 10 a.m. There will also be another exhibit on Aug. 4 at 10 a.m.

Alliance Contact Information and Details

You can find the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County at 1226 N. Tamiami Tr., Sarasota, FL. Contact the Alliance office at (941) 365-5118 for additional information on local events, partnerships, kids’ programs, and other opportunities to learn.

While you’re at it, check out our long-term rentals on Siesta Key. You can become immersed in the Siesta Key arts community by enjoying an extended stay on this famed Florida island.