One-Of-A-Kind Art Experiences and Exhibitions in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is Florida’s best-kept secret of a charming natural paradise located on the idyllic Southwest Gulf Coast. This coastal community surrounding the state’s second-largest harbor sits conveniently between Tampa and Naples. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a haven of vibrant experiences in the sun-soaked oasis of the Southwest Florida islands, characterized by almost year-round sunshine and sub-tropical weather. Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is also home to a vast array of art galleries and exhibits that showcase the creative talent of many of the area's artists. www.PureFlorida.com
One of the most multi-faceted art experiences you can find in Punta Gorda that is just steps from the bustling Fishermen’s Village, is the Visual Arts Center. The Visual Arts Center features 3 separate galleries with a continuous rotation of art shows on display for visitors to enjoy. It also offers the area's finest art classes and workshops with instructors for all levels with 6 different workshop spaces. The workshop rooms are spacious, bright and airy and the entire Visual Arts Center is adorned with creative pieces produced by local artists. In addition to Art for sale by Visual Arts Center member artists, art supplies at their art shop and class kits are available along with VAC logo items, snacks and rental storage lockers for students. The Visual Arts Center holds numerous events all throughout the year; from the Battle of the Brushes recently held in March, to Summer Camp for children during the Summer, Member Showcase Exhibits, and more. The Visual Art Center is a must-see for any art lover visiting the area. https://www.pureflorida.com/
Just a mile down the road is another Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach art community staple, the Sea Grape Gallery. The Sea Grape Gallery is an artist cooperative that is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year. Over 20 award-winning artists participate in Sea Grape Gallery, and one of our knowledgeable members is always on hand to assist you. The Gallery offers a large variety of unique artisan crafts as well as paintings and photography. Browsing through the gallery one will find unique pottery creations, fused glass and decorative glass panels, handcrafted Kaleidoscopes, custom jewelry, mixed media paintings and even giclée prints. Having the artists available on hand to speak with about the pieces makes visiting this gallery a very special experience. https://www.pureflorida.com/listings/sea-grape-artists-gallery/251/
Another landmark art exhibition that should be on every art lover’s list of places to visit in this destination, is the Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Garden. Neighboring the Peace River, this 30-acre waterfront oasis encompasses the diversity of five ecosystems including marshlands, wetlands, mangroves, uplands and tidal basin. Flowering trees and plants bloom throughout the year, and more than 15,000 sq. ft. of boardwalks and docks provide optimum viewing of the Garden’s vast sculptures. The sculptures created by internationally renowned talent tower over the meticulously manicured gardens and create immersive spaces that combine nature and art. It is one of the largest botanical and sculpture gardens in the State of Florida. The Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Garden has a large variety of shows, exhibits and special events all throughout the year from outdoor painting classes to festival exhibits, private events and weddings, and fundraisers. There is an abundance of nature trails to explore art along the way and even a pier that leads out to panoramic views of Peace River. https://www.pureflorida.com/