The Arts & Culture Scene on Anna Maria Island

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Anna Maria Island, a vibrant arts scene thrives, captivating both locals and visitors alike. From enchanting theatrical performances to diverse art galleries and engaging workshops, the island is a beacon of creativity and cultural expression. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply looking to spark your creativity, Anna Maria Island’s arts and culture scene invites you to experience its unique charm and talent.

Performing Arts on the Island

The Island Players 

According to their website, “The Island Players, Inc. is an organization that provides artistic experiences for the communities of Anna Maria Island and its neighboring cities through the presentation of stage productions. To accomplish these goals, they present five performances each year between October and May of the following year.” 

The Island Players is the oldest community theater in Manatee County, with a long history on Anna Maria Island. The Island Playhouse is a historical building recognized as a Florida Heritage site. 

The current season sees plays Grace and Glory, Crimes of the Heart, Birthday Suite, and Death by Design still to take the stage over the coming months. 

Visit The Island Players’ website for complete schedules and ticket purchases. 

Local Galleries and Artist Havens

Artists Guild of Anna Maria Island 

Recent winner of the Trolley Grant as one of AMI’s best businesses, AGAMI (The Artists Guild of Anna Maria Island) is a favorite for locals and vacationers looking to experience the island’s art culture. 

The all-volunteer membership arranges exhibits, shows, online classes, and other means to further local art in the community. The art gallery, the Guild’s largest program, has 50-plus displaying artists. This includes artwork from Manatee County, Florida, high school students. Since 1989, these artists have collectively shown, sold, and run the non-profit gallery and served as ambassadors for art in the community.​

As an added bonus, each month, on the second Friday from 4 pm-7 pm, AGAMI hosts Paint the Town. Paint the Town is a night walk market and paint-around celebration. Paint the Town hosts special sales and featured artists; it is an excellent time for all. 

ArtCenter Manatee 

The Art Center Manatee is Manatee County’s premier art center. 

Looking for a perfect day trip? ArtCenter Manatee is located in the heart of downtown Bradenton. It is the leading hub for art, art education, and distinctive gifts in Manatee County. The nearly 10,000-square-foot facility boasts three galleries that host rotating monthly exhibits. It also hosts five classrooms that accommodate over 3,000 students annually. For those looking to take some of the art home, there is also LiveArtFully gift shop, and an art library with more than 3,000 volumes. ArtCenter Manatee is consistently recognized as the top art gallery by both the Herald Tribune and Bradenton Herald.

Create Your Own Art 

The Artist Haven 

The Artist Haven is not only a studio and boutique that features local artists but also offers classes for artists of all skill levels. Currently, they offer two classes: a watercolor course with artist Marie Garafano and an acrylic pour course that will have you creating your own unique beach scene trinket tray, ceramic tray, or lazy susan. 

Anna Maria Island Art League

According to its website, The Art League was founded in 1989 by a small group of artists and art lovers wanting to promote art to the island community. The League has offered a wide range of classes, including a scholarship program for children and adults. It has also promoted public art, such as the mural at the Island Branch Library in Holmes Beach.

Every year, the Anna Maria Island Art League hosts and juries a fine arts and fine crafts festival, Springfest, that provides funds for the League and its scholarship fund.

The Center of Anna Maria Island

This pillar in the community is a non-profit community center on Anna Maria Island that strives for excellence in meeting the human service needs of all those living on or near Anna Maria Island. The Center is one of the prime event locations on the island and the perfect place to take a class to improve your performing and traditional art skills. 

Painting with a Twist

Join The Center for an exciting evening of creativity and joy at Painting with a Twist! This class is designed for kids, adults, and families alike, making it a fantastic experience for all skill levels. You’ll enjoy guided painting instructions while creating lasting memories with friends and family.

Van Wetzel Dance 

Join Justin Gomlak Greer—an accomplished opera singer, seasoned Broadway dancer and actor, and passionate arts educator—for this exciting class tailored to theatre enthusiasts of all skill levels. 

Classes kick off with a lively and enjoyable warm-up, leading to the exploration of various movement techniques. As the sessions progress, participants will work towards a brief choreography piece inspired by an upcoming Broadway show at the Van Wezel stage. This hands-on experience offers a glimpse into the creative journey behind some of the most beloved musicals.

Ready to start planning your trip to Anna Maria Island and soak in the sun, arts, and culture? Contact Serendipity today to plan your perfect arts getaway!