Two outdoor events are coming to Southwest Florida in 2021: the Sarasota Fine Art Show at Phillippi Easte Park on January 23–24, and the Naples Fine Art Show on March 27–28. Both events will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All the original artwork on display is handmade by the artists in attendance, and pieces are available for sale in all price ranges.  

Admission is free with a $5 parking fee which supports the Institute for the Arts and Education, a non-profit organization that focuses on community enrichment, cultural diversity and youth art education. In fact, as part of this commitment local art education, these events will integrate a Youth Art and Budding Artist Competition.  

This will encourage young artists in grades K–8 and 6–12, or ages 5–13 and 9–19, to enter original handmade art that will be displayed at the show. A $250 award will be available for this competition. In addition, a Professional Artist Competition will also be held at both events, juried by art professionals, with the chance to win a $1500 award.  

Each of these art shows will take COVID-19 safety precautions seriously as well. The events will located out doors with all booths spaced a minimum of seven feet apart and wide aisles between them for social distancing. Hand sanitizer will be offered in each both, and face coverings are recommended. 

For more information, call 941-755-3088 or visit ArtsAndEducationInc.org. Professional artists can apply on this website also.