About Us:
Island Gallery West is a co-operative art gallery of prize-winning local and regional artists working in a wide variety of media. In addition to paintings, you will find decorative and functional ceramics, jewelry, photography, and stained glass.
History:
In December of 1989, the idea of an art center on Anna Maria Island was the dream of one man, James Pay. At that time, if Island residents wanted to take art lessons, they had to go either to Sarasota or downtown Bradenton. In addition to James Pay, there were several artists and members of a local art league who wanted someplace to show their art work for sale.
In January 1990, a space to rent was found at 5368 Gulf Drive in the S&S Plaza in Holmes Beach. Member artists transformed the space into an attractive professional art gallery. Some of those artists were Sidney McKeena, Mary Worobec, Helen DeForge, Thelma Weeks, Irene Murphy, Judy Adams, Bren Jackson and Jane Fitzgerald.
In April of 1990, the doors opened with a public reception. The Anna Maria Island Art League and Island Gallery West became a reality.
Island Gallery West is now celebrating 25+ years in the same location. Over the years there has been a flow of artists joining or leaving, maintaining an average of 25 to 30 members.
Island Gallery West continues to be an artists' cooperative with no paid employees and each member is required to sit gallery duty once a month. If an artist is interested in joining the gallery they must be juried in by current members. If you’ve never been in Island Gallery West, you’re in for a treat because this gallery shows very high quality work at very affordable prices. Come in and visit with the artist on duty and enjoy the beauty and talent of these fine artists. Hours are 10am to 5pm, Monday through Saturday. You can also follow us on Facebook.
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