Founded in 1951, Florida CraftArt helps advance, mentor and support Florida’s artists and is the only statewide nonprofit representing Florida’s fine craft artists. This vibrant, nonprofit organization that has been at the center of St. Petersburg’s artistic renaissance.
Original fine craft produced by more than 250 of Florida’s finest craft artists are showcased in the main gallery. Every artist is vetted to ensure that the handcrafted art is of the highest quality.
During the year, nine curated shows in the exhibition gallery feature local, regional and national artists working in jewelry, glass, ceramics, wood and fiber.
Admission to the galleries is free. Educational programming includes lectures and hands-on activities and workshops for adults and children. Florida CraftArt’s primary goal is the success of the fine craft artists of Florida, helping them develop from emerging artist to profitable professional artist. The gallery staff is invested in mentoring artists in product development, marketing, pricing and business practices.
The annual CraftArt Festival is held the weekend before Thanksgiving. Hundreds of fine craft artists from around the country participate in the two-day outdoor festival held in downtown St. Petersburg. This opportunity has launched many artists into their full-time careers.
On the second floor of Florida CraftArt’s 100-year-old building is ArtLofts, 20 artists’ studios. ArtLofts are open by appointment or by chance and on ArtWalk, every second Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m.