In the heart of Sarasota, City Hall is currently showcasing "Now You See Us," a newly refreshed exhibition by the Petticoat Painters. This all-female art collective, established back in 1953, is recognized as one of the most longstanding women's art groups still actively displaying their work. The group's foundation notably marked a counter to the societal norms of that era where women artists often struggled to find spaces to exhibit their craft. According to the City of Sarasota's official website, the updated exhibit at City Hall features 46 new artworks that grace the lobby, illuminating the venue with a range of artistic expressions.
The current exhibition is open to the public and comes at no cost, inviting visitors to explore this vibrant showcase during City Hall's regular business hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. It's a part of the City Hall Cultural Heritage Exhibit which commenced in November of 2022, an initiative intentionally designed to celebrate the city's rich cultural legacies by rotating museum-quality visual art pieces every six months.
Historically, the Petticoat Painters have been a vehicle for women artists to be seen and to stand decisively in the limelight on their own terms. Past exhibitors that have taken part in the City Hall Cultural Heritage Exhibit include notable names such as the Highwaymen Art Experts, Inc., Arts Advocates, The Circus Arts Conservatory, The Sarasota Architecture Center, and the Sarasota County History Center archive. These diverse participations highlight the significant array of creative perspectives residing within Sarasota's local culture.
The City is hosting a free reception with a public lecture to celebrate the refreshed Petticoat Painters exhibit. The event is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 8, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at City Hall, offering not only an opportunity to gaze upon the fresh artworks but also to engage directly with the narratives and insights that have shaped them.
