This Saturday, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens will unveil its latest exhibition at its downtown Sarasota Campus—The High Life: Contemporary Photography and the Birds. The exhibition, a collaboration with the Foundation for the Exhibition of Photography, pays homage to the organization’s downtown campus as not only a sanctuary for rare and exotic plants, but a home for birds as well. “We have uncovered that more than 160 species of birds can be found at this campus,” says Jennifer Rominiecki, president and CEO of Selby Gardens. “We’re part of a migratory path here, with our lush gardens and waterfront this campus has become an incredible habitat for birds.”

The High Life is part of what Rominiecki refers to as “a museum without walls.” Around 70 works of art from more than 50 photographers are situated throughout the campus, both inside—within the walls of the Richard and Ellen Sandor Museum of Botany & the Arts—and outside throughout the campus’s gardens. Although the photography all centers around birds, the work shown varies just as widely as the different species of birds found in Selby Garden’s downtown campus. Inside, visitors can see Spanish photographer Mario Cea’s The Blue Trail—a streaking image of a kingfisher diving into water in precise detail—next to Xavi Bou’s Orthinagraphies #102. The Blue Trail is the product of a wildlife photographer, whereas Orthinagraphies #102, which saw Bou use high-speed cameras to photograph the flight patterns of birds within an arctic environment, is a far more abstract work of art.

“Cea is a wildlife photographer—he’s one of those people who just disappears into the wilderness in search of his shots,” says William Ewing, one of the guest curators of The High Life. “With Bou, he photographs the flight patterns of these birds and depending on the bird, the patterns they leave behind can be very different from each other. By showing the landscape in which he took the pictures, however, he roots the abstraction in reality.”

Outside in the campus’s gardens, the photographs are printed onto aluminum mounts and nestled amongst the dense flora for which Selby Gardens is best known for, blurring the lines between art and nature. “The artwork itself is very compelling, but there is something about the combination of the work and the environment that makes for an incredibly engaging experience,” says Dr. David Berry, vice president of visitor engagement and chief museum curator at Selby Gardens.

The High Life: Contemporary Photography and the Birds, July 19-September 14, 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, 34236.

Photographs from "The High Life" at Marie Selby Gardens Downtown Sarasota Campus. Photo by Cecilia Marty.

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As artificial intelligence I rapidly reshapes every industry, including the arts, top-ranked art and design institution Ringling College of Art and Design is equipping creatives with the essential skills and ethical understanding necessary to thrive. Through ongoing research and collaboration across the field, Ringling College is setting an international precedent for AI instruction that acknowledges AI’s potential value as a creative partner while keeping core art and design skills central to the curriculum. Faculty across various disciplines are integrating AI into their instruction while continuing to foster a commitment to human creativity and connection. 

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Sarasota Opera’s popular Food & Wine Festival returns on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on stage at the Sarasota Opera House. This festive community event brings together local restaurants, wineries, and artisan vendors to serve up an afternoon of culinary delights, music and dancing in support of Sarasota Opera Youth Opera. The exclusive VIP experience is back this year by popular demand, offering early entry at 12:15 p.m., reserved seating, and enhanced tastings for $150 per person. General admission is $75 in advance or $85 at the door. 

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We’re turning up the heat this July with our Arts Alliance Summer Social at the coolest spot in downtown Sarasota — 99 Bottles! Whether you're already part of our vibrant arts community or looking to make new connections, this is your chance to mingle with creatives, enjoy some local flavor, and soak up the good vibes. Expect lite bites, your favorite libations, and plenty of inspiring conversation. Don’t forget to share your moments using #SRQArtVibes for a chance to win a $20 gift card to 99 Bottles!

Tuesday, July 22, 5:30 – 7:00pm, 99 Bottles, Sarasota. 

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Recognized as the premier improv festival in the Southeastern U.S., this high-octane weekend brings together top improvisers from across the country and around the globe for two unforgettable days of unscripted comedy. The Sarasota Improv Festival is back July 18 & 19—and it’s bigger, bolder, and funnier than ever! From musical improv and fast-paced games to bold, boundary-pushing performances—every show is a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or brand-new to improv, this festival is your ticket to non-stop laughter and spontaneous fun in the heart of Downtown Sarasota. 

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The Sarasota Tiger Bay Club invites the public to attend its discussion about the impact of arts and culture in Sarasota County on August 7, 11:30 a.m., at Michael’s On East, 1212 East Avenue South in Sarasota. This conversation features leaders of local arts organizations with moderator Dr. Frank Alcock. For more information, and to register for this event, visit SarasotaTigerBay.com or call 941-228-9144. 

The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation has named the 1887 Church at Manatee Village Historical Park to its 2025 Florida’s 11 to Save list. Construction of the church began in 1887 but was delayed by a yellow fever outbreak. It was completed in 1889 and became home to the first Christian congregation on the Florida mainland south of Tampa. In 1975, the church and the 1860 courthouse were relocated to their current site as part of a bicentennial preservation effort. These two buildings became the foundation of what is now Manatee Village Historical Park. Today, the church—like many historic buildings—requires rehabilitation. Repairs needed include a new roof and structural stabilization to ensure the building’s long-term preservation. 

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The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County is pleased to announce that the Sarasota Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved the FY2026 Tourist Development Cultural/Arts (TDC/A) grant recommendations. This year, 33 local arts and cultural organizations will receive a total of $2.1 million to support projects that promote tourism in Sarasota County.  

Join us for the inspiring 10th Annual SRQ Women Who Roar Leadership and Awards Luncheon, celebrating local women leaders who significantly impact our community. Enjoy a dynamic program featuring the introduction of the esteemed 2025 Leadership Circle inductees, engaging PopUp Boutiques, and opportunities to network during our post-event reception. 

Get ready to be inspired at the Annual Giving Coast Luncheon: Philanthropic Agenda & Good Hero Awards, recognizing local changemakers. Join us in bringing the philanthropic community together on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at Michael's On East and help celebrate the nonprofit spirit of our area. Featuring a panel of distinguished philanthropic leaders discussing giving trends, the honorable Good Hero Awards, and the interactive Giving Tree Program, this event will be nothing short of spectacular. Also highlighting the acclaimed SRQ Lifetime Good Hero Achievement Award, the program will uplift attendees and spark meaningful change.