Pictured: Deborah F. Rutter and Brian Hersh at the 2025 Arts Summit. Provided photo.

As we close out another year, I find myself reflecting on Sarasota's arts and cultural landscape. In my role, I'm fortunate to see an extraordinary cross-section of what our community has to offer, from powerful theatrical productions to world-class concerts to art exhibitions and breathtaking dance. And I can tell you: I am continually inspired by the breadth and depth of creativity.

What stands out most this year is not just the number of cultural experiences, but the remarkable level of quality within each discipline. Sarasota’s arts scene consistently exceeds expectations. Time and again, I hear the similar refrain from people who are newly immersing themselves: “I knew it was good, but I didn’t realize it was this good.” That sense of discovery is one of our community’s greatest strengths.

At the Arts and Cultural Alliance, 2025 was a year of building resources, raising our voice, and advocating for the sector we serve. Our Arts & speaker series continues to bridge gaps, spark conversations, and build empathy. We relaunched Culture Collective for a new generation of creatives, professionals, and explorers who want to connect and grow. And on the advocacy front, we stewarded $2.1 million in Tourist Development grants for local arts organizations, funding that positions Sarasota's cultural offerings as a powerful draw for visitors and reinforces our reputation as Florida's Cultural Coast. We're grateful for the continued partnership with Sarasota County Government and encouraged by the State's decision to restore cultural funding, signaling that our local and state leaders recognize the value the arts bring to Florida.

Here's what stays with me most: the people who engage with the arts here aren't just enthusiasts; they understand, perhaps intrinsically, that creativity helps them live a better life. The arts aren't an extra. They're essential to our well-being, to our sense of connection, to the very quality of life that makes Sarasota such a remarkable place to call home.

As you think about your goals and aspirations for the new year, I'd encourage you to make space for the arts. Not just as another item on your calendar, but as something that genuinely enriches your life. Attend a performance, visit a gallery, join a conversation. These experiences don’t just uplift individuals; they strengthen the community we share.

While we're not a perfect community, or immune to challenges.... I believe the arts can be part of the solution to so many of the issues we face together. Arts issues are community issues. Community issues are arts issues. When we invest in creativity, we invest in each other.

Looking back on this year, I am grateful for the artists, organizations, supporters, and audiences who make Sarasota’s creative ecosystem thrive. Here's to a new year filled with inspiration, connection, and the renewing power of the arts.

Visit sarasotaarts.org to explore all the ways you can engage with Sarasota's vibrant cultural scene in 2026.

Brian Hersh is the CEO of the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County.

Pictured: Deborah F. Rutter and Brian Hersh at the 2025 Arts Summit. Provided photo.