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Arts Advocates

Discover What’s New: Arts Advocates Unveils 2025–2026 Cultural Programs, Events & Exhibits in Sarasota

| Suncoast Post Staff |

SARASOTA, Fla. – Arts Advocates has revealed an exciting lineup for its 2025–2026 season, featuring thought-provoking speaker series, exclusive tours, dynamic exhibits, and monthly luncheons — all designed to celebrate and elevate Sarasota’s vibrant arts scene.

From the all-new Talkback Tuesdays and deep-dive conversations with local creatives, to docent-led tours of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and an ongoing showcase of Sarasota Art Colony and Florida Highwaymen works, the season offers rich experiences for both members and the public.

🗣️ Talkback Tuesdays: Conversations with Sarasota’s Cultural Leaders

Held monthly from 4:00–6:00 p.m. at the Arts Advocates Gallery (3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota), this new series is hosted by Nanette Crist and explores the voices shaping Sarasota’s creative landscape.
Admission: Free for members, $5 for nonmembers. Register at ArtsAdvocates.org

Upcoming Guests Include:

  • Oct. 7 – Carrie Seidman: “Voices That Shape Sarasota: Journalism, Justice, and Local Truths”
  • Nov. 4 – Blake Walton: “HEAR ME: Solo Performance as Power and Protest”
  • Jan. 13 – Peter Tush: “Beyond the Canvas: AR & the Future of Visual Art”
  • Feb. 10 – Dasha Reich: “The Flag: Nine Artists, Nine Flags”
  • Mar. 10 – Ronnique Hawkins: “Roots & Radiance: Learning Their History”
  • Apr. 7 – Justin Gomlak: “From Broadway to the Classroom: Building Creative Futures”
Arts Advocates

🍽️ Monthly Luncheon Programs at the Sarasota Yacht Club

Engaging speakers share insights on timely arts topics from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Location: 1100 John Ringling Blvd.
Cost: $45 members, $50 nonmembers (includes lunch)

Upcoming Dates & Topics:

  • Oct. 16, 2025 – Panel Discussion with Local Theater Artistic Directors moderated by Jay Handelman
  • Nov. 20, 2025 – Rick Dakan: “What You Need to Know About AI and the Arts”

Luncheons continue in 2026 on Jan. 15, Feb. 19, Mar. 19, Apr. 16, and May 21 — speakers to be announced.

🎭 Behind the Curtain at the Van Wezel

Explore the fine art inside the Van Wezel and get a rare backstage look at one of Sarasota’s cultural landmarks.
Tour Dates: Sept. 22, Oct. 20, Nov. 17, Dec. 8 (2025); Jan. 12, Feb. 9, Mar. 9, Apr. 13, May 18 (2026)
Time: 1:30–3:00 p.m. | Cost: $15
Tickets: Call the Van Wezel box office at (941) 263-6799

🚌 Special Arts Tours

  • Dec. 2, 2025: Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (WBTT) behind-the-scenes tour with founder Nate Jacobs and Executive Director Julie Leach. Includes a live musical performance and Q&A.
    Time: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | Cost: $25 members, $28 nonmembers

Located at Crossings at Siesta Key Mall, the gallery is open Saturdays from 2:00–4:00 p.m.

  • Permanent Exhibit: Sarasota Art Colony and Florida Highwaymen
  • October 2025: Artists of Palmer Ranch
  • November 2025: Landings Artists Collaborative
    More artist showcases will be added throughout the season.

For full details, event registration, or to become a member, visit ArtsAdvocates.org

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