City Hall is gearing up to host a compelling show titled "Now You See Us," featuring artworks from the Petticoat Painters, a group firmly rooted in women's empowerment and artistic excellence. The exhibit is slated to commence on March 17, shining a spotlight on this historic collective as part of the broader Women’s History Month celebrations, as per the City of Sarasota.
Since its inception in 1953, the Petticoat Painters have carved out a name for themselves, proving tenacious in a genre where women historically struggled to secure exhibition space. The original seven members, who held their premiere exhibition at a local Sarasota gallery, selected the group's name and in doing so, cemented their legacy in the art world. Today, the collective boasts 20 members, whose work will adorn the walls of the City Hall's atrium, as part of the City's Cultural Heritage Exhibit series. This series provides a window into Sarasota's rich cultural legacies, allowing visitors to engage with museum-quality visual art.
In an interview with the City of Sarasota's official website, Ciera Coleman, the City’s Public Art Administrator, shared, "The significance of installing this collection during Women’s History Month in March is twofold. Not only does the collection embody women’s empowerment through these artists and their mission, but their historic connection to Sarasota is also something that we’re proud to spotlight for our residents."
For those eager to immerse themselves in the creative dialogue, City Hall will roll out the red carpet with a complimentary opening reception on March 21, from 4 – 6 p.m. Attendees can look forward to a public lecture, and, a short presentation at 4:30 p.m. in the Commission Chambers. All are welcome on a first come, first served basis. The Petticoat Painters' exhibit is an ongoing affair, accessible during regular City Hall hours until a refresh with new works happens after six months.
Prior exhibitions in the Cultural Heritage Exhibit series have included works from the Highwaymen Art Experts, Inc., Arts Advocates, The Circus Arts Conservatory, The Sarasota Architecture Center, and pieces from the Sarasota County History Center archive. This initiative, launched in November 2022, not only beautifies the City Hall space but also pays homage to the state's historical relationship with the arts and culture. The Petticoat Painters will now join these ranks, providing City Hall visitors with yet another visually striking and culturally enriching experience.
