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Celebrate Sarasota’s Cultural Heritage: Arts Advocates Announces February 2025 Events

| Suncoast Post Staff |

Arts Advocates is delighted to unveil its February 2025 lineup, featuring a wide range of cultural activities, including an art talk about Sarasota legacy artist Robert (Bob) Chase, a luncheon in the Arts Advocates Gallery, an exhibit by Susan Klein, guided tours of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and Sarasota Opera House, and a captivating lecture on the timeless story of Romeo and Juliet. Unless otherwise noted, registration is required at ArtsAdvocates.org.

Featured Monthly Exhibit: Susan Klein’s “PLACES”

The Arts Advocates Gallery, located at the Crossings at Siesta Key mall, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, hosts rotating exhibits showcasing the talents of its member artists. For February, Susan Klein will present her “PLACES” exhibit from February 1–22, with showings on Saturdays from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. This curated collection highlights stunning scenic landscapes of beloved national and local locations. Admission is free; no registration is required.

February 4: Art Talk – The Legacy of Robert Chase

Join Rick Sanders, son-in-law of artist Robert Chase, for the talk “Robert Chase, Sarasota Legacy Artist and Icon” on February 4 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the Arts Advocates Gallery. A Sarasota resident since 1947 and a World War II veteran, Chase’s art career intersected with notable figures like Marie Selby and Cecil B. DeMille. Sanders will share Chase’s remarkable stories, photographs, and artworks. Free for members; $5 for non-members.

February 8: Lecture – The Many Lives of Romeo and Juliet

On February 8 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Marilyn Carminio presents “The Many Lives of Romeo and Juliet” in the Arts Advocates Gallery. Attendees will embark on a journey through Verona, Italy, and explore how the iconic love story has influenced theater, ballet, opera, music, painting, and film. Tickets are $25.

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February 20: Luncheon with Greg Rumpf

From 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., February 20, Arts Advocates welcomes Greg Rumpf, assistant principal at Booker High School’s Visual and Performing Arts program. Rumpf will discuss nurturing the next generation of artists and share his artistic achievements, including paintings featured in the National Civil Rights Museum and the Arts Advocates Gallery. $30 for members; $35 for non-members, lunch included.

Exclusive Venue Tours

Sarasota Opera House Tour – February 21
From 10:30 a.m. to noon, discover the history and backstage secrets of the Sarasota Opera House. Led by knowledgeable staff, this tour offers insights into the theater’s storied past and productions. $15 for members; $20 for non-members.

Behind the Curtain at the Van Wezel – February 24
Explore the art and stage at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. on February 24. A docent-led tour highlights Florida artists featured in the Arts Advocates collection, followed by a behind-the-scenes stage experience. Tickets are $15, available at the Van Wezel box office or by calling (941) 263-6799. Proceeds support educational programs of Arts Advocates and the Van Wezel.

Cultural

Ongoing Exhibitions

The Arts Advocates Gallery permanently displays works from the Sarasota Art Colony and Florida Highwaymen. Open Saturdays from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., the gallery offers free admission with optional docent-led tours.

For event details, memberships, and registrations, visit ArtsAdvocates.org.

About Arts Advocates

Founded in 1969, Arts Advocates is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Sarasota’s cultural legacy, promoting arts education through scholarships, and celebrating Florida artists through exhibitions and programming. Learn more at www.ArtsAdvocates.org .

Photos from Arts Advocates

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