Art Center Sarasota

Art Center Sarasota holds the distinction of being Sarasota’s first arts organization, originally founded in 1926 as the Sarasota Art Association by Marcia Rader, then Art Supervisor of the Sarasota School System. Incorporated as a nonprofit in 1941, the organization has called the Sarasota Bayfront Cultural District home since 1949. Today, Art Center Sarasota offers curated and juried exhibitions, outreach initiatives, and dynamic youth and adult education through classes, workshops, and special events—creating meaningful opportunities for art enthusiasts to learn, engage, and connect with their community. Admission is always free and open to the public. As a membership-based nonprofit organization, we view membership as an important means of supporting our mission to make the arts accessible to all. Now celebrating a remarkable 100 years of creativity, connection, and community, Art Center Sarasota invites everyone to take part in its Centennial Season. Join us in honoring Sarasota’s vibrant arts legacy—and help shape the next century of artistic expression and community impact.