Art is the Heart of Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island has earned and deserves its reputation as a nature island. The topography alone supports that claim. With Ding Darling Preserve the core of the Island, the restrictions on building and limitations to building density and enormity strongly entrenched, the island retains a unique natural character.

But with all the nature in Southwest Florida from the Everglades to the Keys and then up the west coast (called the nature coast among insiders) there is one facet to Sanibel that differentiates it from all other vacation destinations.

That facet is art.

Art, like nature, abounds on Sanibel.

Other areas of Florida can boast of their restaurants, fine dining and diversity of shopping, and Sanibel could be a contender in those areas as well. But there is no where else in the state where fundamental nature and artistic culture live so harmoniously and conspicuously together.

Just in art galleries and art venues alone, for a 12 mile long barrier island, Sanibel's artistic treasures are easily discovered and enjoyed, in person and on line:

There's the BIG Arts galleries and shows, several diverse and engaging ones now going on through August 31: http://www.bigarts.org/art-gall.php


And there's the Hirdie-Girdie Art Gallery, a Sanibel artists collective with some colorful and dynamic pieces---as well as a great deal of whimsy---- for your viewing: www.hirdiegirdie.com


If you fancy mermaids, stop by or browse the work at The Tower Gallery where at least one artist has elegantly captured these sirens of the sea: www.towergallery-sanibel.com


Don't mistake the Sanibel Art & Frame Company for just your ordinary frame shop. Yes, you can buy frames but the gallery of artists there may delight your eyes with their focus on nature, topicality and wildlife: www.sanibelartandframe.com


Sanybel's Finest has fine art and some delightful crafts on view for you: www.sanybels-finest.com


And the Watson Macrae Gallery features paintings, glass and sculpture among their offerings for the art connoisseur: www.watsonmacraegallery.com

Many shows are now taking place in all the galleries, and many more are coming. Stay tuned to this blog for further announcements!