Art League's New Directions, painting by Everglades Artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Radiant in Spring, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on archival board, 5"x7"

The Art League of Marco hired a new director recently, after nearly a year of search for just the right person.  D (yep, that's the name, just the letter!) Michaels, hailing from Colorado, seems like a great fit.  She's a tiny dynamo with an upbeat attitude and a warm smile, and community partnerships in mind.

She's slowly getting her feet under her--remember the Art League was in a bit of a pickle with both funding and image problems, on a bit of a slippery slope.  There's a sound financial plan in place now, a new enthusiasm among the members, and things are looking up. 

D's a connector, and looking for ways for the Art League to partner and build relationships with friends and community organizations.  One of her first ventures was to partner with the Naples Children's Museum, soon to open, but already beginning to offering  some exciting and FREE classes for children at the Art League right here on the island. 

The Art League will be very involved in Arts Afire! next week.  First, March 11 and 12th, Art in Bloom, will be presented at that Art League, a partnership with the Calusa Garden Club.  In addition to having their annual awards show at the Art League, Garden Club members will interpret the work of local artists in flowers for the gallery show.  They'll have some outdoor vendors of garden related items as well. Should be fun. 

The second weekend, March 19 and 20, will be the Art League's Celebrate the Arts.  They were kind enough to reschedule this weekend at the City's request to coordinate with the last weekend of Arts Afire!  The Marco National arts and crafts show will be held on the grounds, as well as two full days of arts and entertainment on the big stage, and a car show besides!  I'll be there with my only tent show of the season.  Come out and support Marco's Art League.  You'll have a great time!

Check out the class lists, too.  There are several good ones!  Landscape class starts tomorrow with an optional day April 1st painting out in the Everglades.  Don't miss!