Beyond the Art Gallery on Fort Myers Beach

Art Beyond the Gallery: The Creative Spirit of Fort

Myers Beach Lives On

For more than 75 years, the Fort Myers Beach Art Association has been part of the creative heart of our

island. Through paintings, exhibitions, workshops, and community gatherings, generations of local artists

have captured the beauty and character of Fort Myers Beach while sharing their talents with residents and

visitors alike.

Many longtime islanders will remember the association's beloved gallery at the corner of Shell Mound

Boulevard and Donora Boulevard. It was more than a place to display artwork. It was a gathering space

where artists could create, learn from one another, and share their passion with the community. Although

Hurricane Ian brought an end to that chapter, it certainly didn't bring an end to the Fort Myers Beach Art

Association.

Today, the association continues to thrive from its gallery at Cypress Square in Fort Myers, keeping its

connection to the beach community alive while looking forward to the possibility of returning to the island

one day. Its mission remains much the same as it has for decades: encouraging creativity, promoting the

appreciation of art, and providing opportunities for people of all ages and experience levels to discover

their artistic side.

Capturing the Beauty of Fort Myers Beach

One of the most interesting traditions of the Fort Myers Beach Art Association is plein air painting, a

French expression meaning "in the open air." Rather than working from photographs or inside a studio,

plein air artists take their paints and easels outdoors, capturing the landscape directly in front of them.

Fort Myers Beach provides no shortage of inspiration. From colorful shrimp boats and palm-lined

shorelines to historic buildings, waterfront scenes, and the ever-changing colors of the Gulf, the island

offers artists an extraordinary variety of subjects. Painting outdoors allows artists to capture not only what

a place looks like, but also the light, atmosphere, and feeling of a particular moment.

You may occasionally encounter association artists working along the beach or at other scenic locations

around the area. Visitors are welcome to stop, watch the creative process, and talk with the artists about

their work. It's a wonderful opportunity to see Fort Myers Beach through someone else's eyes and

perhaps gain a new appreciation for the places we pass every day.

The association regularly organizes outdoor painting opportunities, with upcoming locations and activities

listed on its website. Whether you're an experienced painter, someone curious about trying it for the first

time, or simply an admirer of art, these gatherings offer another way to connect with the natural beauty of

Southwest Florida.

You Don't Have to Be an Artist to Belong

Despite its name, the Fort Myers Beach Art Association isn't exclusively for experienced artists. In fact,

one of its most welcoming qualities is the opportunity it provides for anyone who appreciates art to

become involved.

The association operates as a working gallery, offering visitors the chance to see artists creating, explore

changing exhibitions, and participate in a variety of educational experiences. Workshops, art classes,

open painting days, gallery talks, and special programs are available throughout the year, with

opportunities for both beginners and more experienced artists.

For someone who has always wanted to try painting but never quite found the time, these programs can

be a wonderful introduction. There's no need to arrive with artistic experience or expensive supplies.

Sometimes all it takes is a little curiosity and a willingness to try something new.

The gallery also offers opportunities to discover and purchase original artwork created by local artists.

One particularly popular feature is the association's collection of 'Mini-Masters,' original 8-by-10-inch

works donated by participating artists and offered for $20 each. These smaller pieces make it possible to

bring home an original work of art at an accessible price, whether as a gift or a personal reminder of

Southwest Florida.

A Community Connected Through Creativity

Although the association's current gallery is located off the island, its connection to Fort Myers Beach

remains strong. Members continue participating in community activities, supporting other local

organizations, and contributing to events that bring residents and visitors together.

The association's involvement extends beyond its own exhibitions and workshops. Its artists participate in

community traditions such as the Fort Myers Beach Woman's Club Christmas Tree Festival, Putt-N-Pub,

and the annual Sand Sculpting event. These connections reflect something that has always been

important to the island: local organizations supporting one another and finding creative ways to contribute

to the community.

The Fort Myers Beach Library also provides an opportunity for the public to enjoy the association's

artwork. Monthly artist exhibitions on the library's third floor showcase the talents of participating artists,

giving residents and visitors another way to experience local art without visiting a traditional gallery.

For November, the featured artists are Mina Bobel, Lois McDougall, and Kathy Summer, with a wine and

cheese reception scheduled for November 18 from 1 to 3 PM. It's an opportunity to meet the artists, learn

about their work, and discover how much creative talent exists within our community.

Keeping the Artistic Spirit Alive

The Fort Myers Beach Art Association continues to look toward the future while honoring the history that

brought it here. Its members hope to one day return to a permanent gallery on Fort Myers Beach, but in

the meantime, their commitment to art education, exhibitions, and community involvement remains

strong.

The Art Associations Mission

The mission of the Fort Myers Beach Art Association & Gallery is to enrich the cultural life of Fort Myers Beach and the greater Fort Myers area through art, education, and creative expression. We are dedicated to promoting the study, practice, and appreciation of the visual arts by providing opportunities for artists of all experience levels to learn, create, exhibit, and connect. Through public exhibitions, educational programs, and community events, we strive to make art accessible and engaging for residents and visitors alike. We are also committed to inspiring future generations by encouraging art education and creative opportunities for children and young artists, helping to foster a lifelong appreciation for the arts.



The association's story is a reminder that the character of Fort Myers Beach isn't defined solely by its

buildings or landmarks. It's also shaped by the people and organizations that have invested decades in

making this island a special place to live, work, and visit.

For more than 75 years, local artists have helped tell the story of Fort Myers Beach through their

paintings. They've captured familiar landscapes, preserved moments in time, and shared their

appreciation for the island's natural beauty with generations of residents and visitors.

And while the gallery's location may have changed, that creative spirit continues.

Discover the Fort Myers Beach Art Association

If you'd like to explore the gallery, meet local artists, or discover your own creative side, the Fort Myers

Beach Art Association welcomes you.

The gallery is currently located at Cypress Square, 13451 McGregor Boulevard, Suite 1, Fort Myers,

near Prawn Brokers, Bellini's, and Blu Sushi. Seasonal gallery hours are Monday through Saturday, noon

to 6 PM.

Visitors can explore changing exhibitions, attend workshops, participate in gallery events, or simply stop

by to enjoy the artwork. The association also offers annual memberships for those interested in becoming

more involved and supporting its educational and artistic mission.

To learn more about upcoming exhibitions, classes, plein air painting locations, membership

opportunities, and special events, visit www.fortmyersbeachart.com or call 239-463-3909.

Whether you're an artist, an art lover, or someone simply looking for another way to experience the

creative side of Southwest Florida, the Fort Myers Beach Art Association has something worth

discovering. 

Because the spirit of Fort Myers Beach isn't just found along the shoreline. Sometimes, it's

captured on a canvas.

Come see What's Up on FMB.