The Sarasota Art & Handmade Home Show is produced by Richard Rothbard and his wife Joanna Rothbard of An American Craftsman Galleries, offering an ever-changing collection of exquisite American-made fine art objects and craft media. Hailed as leaders in promoting both up-and-coming, emerging artists alongside well-established artists/artisans, the Rothbards have produced some of the most innovative fine craft shows in the country, including the American Fine Craft Show NYC, Contemporary Art Fair NYC, the Rockefeller Arts Festival in Manhattan, the Berkshires Arts Festival and the American Fine Craft Show at the Brooklyn Museum. “Our artists consider the Sarasota region to be a prime market for their work,” says Richard. “With that reputation, some of the best artists in the nation, including many from Sarasota’s own arts community, look forward to this show every year.” Rothbard notes that the indoor ambience and air-conditioned space of Robarts Arena offers a civilized alternative to hot, sunny crowded outdoor art fairs. “It’s a more personal experience. You can take your time, visit with the artists and start a real conversation about their work,” he says. “Artists can show their work in literally the best light.” Last year, the show attracted more than 4,000 enthusiastic visitors over the three-day event, with artists/artisans able to sell their works in the higher price range from $5,000 to $35,000. Continuing to build on that success, the Rothbards upped the ante even more by rigorously searching and carefully selecting the 100+ artisans for the 2018 show. And several local artists are showing up from Clearwater, St. Pete, and everywhere in between, to Nokomis and Venice, to participate in the exhibit this year. Local highlights include Su Griggs’ compelling sculptures, Scott Causey’s high gloss ceramics, Tom Ruthz’s pet portrait paintings, Joan Michelin’s wearable fiber art, Malik Sanjib’s 3D experiential mixed-media, John Grammer’s metal wall-hangings of Florida sea-life, Vicki Rollo’s blown glass and beaded indie jewelry and Parker Converse’s wooden rocking chair creations. “We are always excited to see the high caliber of work being produced by the participating artists from this area,” say the Rothbards. 

For more information about the Sarasota Art & Handmade Home Show, call 845-661-1221 or visit sarasotaartandhandmadehomeshow.com.