Art Center Sarasota has unveiled its 2026-27 season, and the theme is access. The center is adding free Family Saturdays, a new early childhood program called Start With Art, and Creative Practice for adults, alongside evening Creative Happy Hours designed for people who can’t make daytime classes. At least $35,000 from four community funders is backing the expanded youth and family initiatives, and gallery admission remains free with extended hours on select Wednesdays.
The season also reaches beyond the gallery walls. Art Center Sarasota is expanding outreach to assisted living communities, a meaningful addition in a region with so many retirees and snowbirds. Meanwhile, a leadership gift from Andrew Ford Fine Art establishes the Andrew and Lathrop Ford Bayfront Sculpture Garden, giving the center a new outdoor presence on the waterfront.
Exhibitions run from October 2026 through October 2027, mixing solo shows and juried exhibitions with the touring “Art of the Wish,” created by Marn Jensen and Andy Newcom. Special events like Art Royale and Retro Remix round out the calendar. Executive Director Katherine Ceaser says the goal is for creativity to become part of everyday life in the community. With free admission and programs for every age, that goal is looking a lot more reachable.
Which part of the new season are you most excited about: Family Saturdays, the evening events, or the sculpture garden?
