How It All Started In 1956, when the population of the city and surrounding area numbered about 36,000 and the Intercoastal Waterway had not yet rendered Venice an island, the Women's Club sponsored a two-day art show. Twenty-seven artists displayed 60 works and 250 people attended. This seed grew into "The Art Spirit", Venice-Nokomis Art Association in 1958. The Association The Association sponsored many art-centered activities in the next few years. By 1966 a committee for a permanent gallery had plans drawn by retired architect Charles Mink, leased the southeast corner of Blalock Park, addressed a fund-raising campaign and changed the name to the "Venice Area Art League". Construction was completed by March 1968, when more than 150 paintings and other art works were displayed. The Arts Center Today During the 70's and 80's the Venice area experienced tremendous growth. It became apparent that the original Art Center sorely needed renovation. The name was changed to "The Venice Art Center, Inc." and by 1993 "The Friends of the Venice Art Center" had been created to assist with programs and funding. Following groundbreaking in January 1996, construction was completed by October. With increased classroom space available, a vigorous, supportive membership and new, flexible display galleries, the Venice Art Center proudly carries the aim of the 1958 founders "to stimulate and encourage the appreciation of art" into the future. Our Staff Mary Morris, Executive Director Linda Larisch, Volunteer Coordinator / Administrative Assistant Alexis LeRoux-Dupont, Volunteer Coordinator / Administrative Assistant Suzanne Bowe, Office Manager Norman Lagasse, Maintenance Manager Our Board Julie Baxter, President Community Outreach The Art Center has an Outreach Coordinator who will arrange to have someone talk to civic groups about the Art Center. To make arrangements contact us at 941-485-7136. Annual Report The Art Center's most recent Annual Report is available for review by clicking here.
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