Anna Maria Island is known as a stunning tropical vacation spot with some of the most pristine beaches and clearest waters. But, it is also known as an artistic hub along Florida’s shores.
From painters to artisans to photographers, this quaint island has tons of local art for you to browse – and, of course, purchase. Forget keychains and T-shirts, and buy an authentic souvenir made by a local artist this vacation. Or, jump on the “buy nothing” bandwagon and take an art class instead.
To help get you started, we’ve put together a list of some of the best art galleries to visit near our Anna Maria Island vacation home rentals for families.
Artists’ Guild Gallery
The Artists’ Guild Gallery is a non-profit and community gallery that displays and deals work from local artists. The gallery’s collections are thoughtful and diverse, featuring a variety of media and artists. Space is staffed by local artists themselves, who are happy to discuss the work on display.
The Artists’ Guild holds classes, workshops, and events regularly. Learn to paint watercolor landscapes of Florida’s stunning natural beauty, sketch still life with colored pencils, or make an illustration at the Pen & Ink class. This is a great way to enjoy a rainy afternoon or take a break from the sun while on vacation.
Located centrally in Holmes Beach, near some of our comfortable 2-bedroom vacation rentals.
Studio at Gulf and Pine
The Studio at Gulf and Pine is a gallery, event center, and classroom at once.
This elegant gallery features art from the region, and hosts plenty of events, including watercolor shows, themed exhibits with a variety of media, and children’s art displays. The annual “Sharing Our Shores” event, which covers the Studio’s walls with watercolor paintings of local wildlife done by Anna Maria Island Elementary School students.
The Studio offers educational workshops or provides the resources for you to host your own. They even offer a Summer Art Camp for kids ages 7 to 11, where kids can explore their creative side, learn new techniques, and have fun. This program is led by a local Anna Maria artist. It also serves as an event center for islanders and visitors alike. Wedding receptions, conferences, kids’ birthday parties – you name it.
This gallery is located in the northern city of Anna Maria, on bustling Pine Street. Be sure to visit this gallery before grabbing a bite to eat at one of the area’s fantastic restaurants.
Island Gallery West
Established in 1990, Island Gallery West has been displaying local artists’ work for nearly 30 years. This artists’ co-operative is an island staple and is a great place to view, purchase, and create art on the island.
Here, you’ll find art of all kinds: paintings, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and much more. This small gallery prides itself on quality and variety – most of its 30+ artists are award-winning artists who have displayed their art in shows around the state.
Every month the gallery features one of its artists, making for a constantly rotating exhibition. You can always find something new at Island Gallery West. The gallery is staffed by a member artist, all of whom love to chat about their work and love for the island. Stop by for a chat and to browse some of these fantastic works.
Plan Your Next Vacation
In addition to the above list, there’s also Arts for the Earth and the Artists Guild Gallery. Our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals offer a luxurious and tranquil place to rest your head after a day of activities. We also offer Anna Maria Island pet-friendly vacation rentals. Book your stay today using our online system.
Anna Maria Island Art League
If you like doing more than you like viewing, the Anna Maria Island Art League should be first on the art gallery tour.
This Holmes Beach art school offers classes for all ages and interests just blocks from Anna Maria Island’s pristine beaches. If you’re a beginner, try the Introduction to Watercolor class. If you’re on the island for a season, enroll in the four-week Oil Painting Course and create a masterpiece or the six-week Creative Ceramics course to create usable art. The studio also offers writing workshops, art history classes, and meditation practice.
The Island Art League exhibit changes monthly, with a monthly launch event on the first Friday of the exhibit. Be sure to check this out if it coincides with your week at AMI vacation home rentals for families.
