Driving down Highway 41, you have undoubtedly seen the old Sarasota High School building. A stunning example of collegiate neo-Gothic architecture designed by M. Leo Elliott in 1926. In 2003, a group of local philanthropic lovers of contemporary art devised a plan to save the historic Sarasota High School and create a museum and visual arts education center. Sarasota Art Museum (SAM) opened in 2019 as  Sarasota’s only art museum dedicated exclusively to contemporary art.

For a lover of all art, with a particular appreciation for contemporary art,  SAM offers a special opportunity as a Kunsthalle, a museum without a permanent collection.  SAM enjoys the freedom to engage with an ever-changing, dynamic array of exhibitions. As a Museum Studies major and visitor experience enthusiast, I was wowed on my recent visit, and the free and easy parking was an added plus. Staff warmly greeted me, and I was immediately awed by the bright, engaging colors in the lobby. The $15.00 admission with children under  17  free was right in line with the budget. Annual membership starts at just $65.00 and includes discounts at the Bistro and museum store. I picked up a membership for myself and my husband to support our local arts community and enjoy this fantastic opportunity that’s actually within walking distance.

There are currently three exhibitions on display at SAM. Each is a unique presentation, and I loved them all. My experience at SAM was further enhanced when I discovered it isn't just a place to look at stunning art but classes are available for creative artists of all ages and levels of expertise where you can make your own art!! Your Wednesday Playdate and Family ArtLab are perfect for kids. The Studios @SAM offer ceramics, painting, drawing, and photography classes for teens and adults. While some museums prohibit dancing near the art, SAM has several movement classes, including yoga, right in the galleries.

Viewing all the exhibitions really works up an appetite, and thankfully, SAM  has a phenomenal Bistro, offering lunch daily and a great brunch on weekends. The delicious Farro Salad immediately caught my attention. Visiting the Bistro does not require museum admission. I found my new favorite lunch spot for ladies' day out! I plan on bringing my husband for a special date night to attend a Bistro Pop-up Dinner, or you might spot us enjoying cool jazz and cocktails in the courtyard on select Thursdays.

SAM is a Sarasota treasure and truly is our neighborhood museum.  We are fortunate to live near an incredible contemporary art museum. 

To learn more: www.sarasotaartmuseum.org/

 

Virginia Harshman is a resident of Bayview Heights. She holds a Master’s degree in Museum Studies from Harvard University. She enjoys traveling, fitness, and visiting museums around the globe.