Art Walk: Venice Art Center

September 2022—Venice Art Center has been a cultural destination for more than 67 years, and it continues to surprise and delight. Back then, a group of 28 artists in Venice decided to put on an art exhibit. They held their first successful exhibition in a small beach house, and formed the Venice Art League. This would blossom into the Venice Art Center. 

With 12 exhibits annually, hundreds of classes for adults and children, 50 teachers of all disciplines, 1,400 members, an inspired staff, more than 200 volunteers, an Italian café (The Art Caffe), and a venue for multiple events, fundraisers, and concerts, the Center has become a focal point of the community. 

“What’s unique about the Center is that no matter who walks in the door, there is something for everyone here,” said Mary Moscatelli, CEO. “We want to make it inclusive, so that anyone who walks in can find something that inspires them.” 

Moscatelli is also the co-chair of an exciting new public arts project, FantaSea Venice. The streets of Venice are adorned with 52 of 5-foot-tall artfully painted sculptures of mermaids and seahorses. Each of the sculptures has been painted by different artists, sponsored by various businesses and individuals, and will grace the streets through March of 2023. On April 1st of 2023 the sculptures will be auctioned off. To find out more about bidding on your favorite, visit FantaSeaVenice.com.  

In 2005 the Center hosted a sculpture project called Pigs of Paradise, and in 2012, they showcased dolphins and turtles, called Sea Venice. FantaSea Venice is the third public art project and promises the same allure as its predecessors. Moscatelli urges everyone to come downtown and experience FantaSea Venice. “The sculptures are beautiful. Make it a day trip! See the Sculptures, try our Venice restaurants, explore the shops, and just enjoy downtown Venice.” 

Visit veniceartcenter.com and fantaseavenice.com to learn more.

VeniceArtCenter.com • (941) 485-7136 • 390 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice, Fl. 34285