Events, Performances & Exhibitions
FLORACION – Ongoing until September 5th
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
If one could draw the subtle connections that exist between individuals, especially as artists, we would find those connections reach far beyond where we stand. They emerge from everyone and everywhere, and come together in the most unexpected ways. Five local artisans were invited to join one another for a group exhibition, each of them on their own unique journey, but with some key things in common: they are all women, Latina, spirited and fiercely dedicated to their art.
Each of these remarkable artists is known for creating highly introspective work, yet each with their own distinctive style and sources of inspiration. Through the use of various media, these artists have forged bodies of work that explore the deep connections of the soul – to nature, ourselves and to each other.
Together these artists remind us how we learn, through the creative process, to grow – to bloom – and not forget one’s roots.
Join us for this one-of-a-kind exposé of artwork from these five distinguished artists: Cecilia Valadez, Monika Bokelmann, Sonia Rosa, Julia Da Rocha, and Winnie Purple.
Progenitor of Life: Artwork Inspired by Water – Ongoing until September 24th
Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
From crystal clear, reflective rivulets to green, tumultuous ocean waves – water is an essential and pervasive aspect of life. The preservation of clean water, waterways, and seas is and always will be of tremendous importance, hence the declaration of August as National Water Quality Month. In honor of this and of all the ways that water is essential to life, we invite artists to submit artwork in any media that reflects on the beauty and power of this most vital element: water.
Black & White Exhibition 2024, September 12th – October 24th
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Opening Reception: Thursday, September 12th, 6–8pm
What can an artist say by removing the impact of color from their process of creation? Emphasis is placed on texture, line, and composition as the foundations of a powerful image or sculpture limited to greyscale. For this exhibition, artists are asked to submit a black & white artwork, which may incorporate no more than 10% color. Open to all media types, 2-D and 3-D works.
Symphony of Color—The Art of Karen Gozzo Nolan, September 12th – October 24th
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Opening Reception: Thursday, September 12th, 6–8pm
Music is the inspiration for my art. It begins by selecting music for the piece, and laying out the medium before me. The emotion of the music will choose the palette, along with an assortment of tools. The process is very private, exhilarating, yet exhausting in a good way. Disappearing into the art my tools become the instruments, the paint becomes the music. Once a piece has begun, it moves forward with the same musical artist until complete. I have been labeled an abstract expressionist by my peers. My paintings are intuitive and emotionally vibrant, painted brightly with the passion of the song. As far as my memory goes, connecting music with color was something I thought everyone did. At different periods in my life, I would paint this connection. Imagine, color, connecting with sound. Creating art professionally has been my dream since childhood. The path to this dream has been rewarding but bumpy.
Zach Bartholomew: Miles Davis: Kind of blue (Featuring Trumpeter James Suggs), September 12th, 7:30pm
Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
The second season of Zachary Bartholomew’s Resident Artist Concert series is kicking off with a banger: The music from “Kind of Blue” by Miles Davis. This is arguably the most famous and influential jazz album of all time and this concert will present all of the compositions from the record in a brand-new light. Featuring trumpet virtuoso James Suggs and an all-star band, come hear the music of Miles Davis as you’ve never heard it before! As a bonus, audiences will get to hear brand new original music inspired by Miles Davis written specifically for this show!
Featuring:
Dr. Zachary Bartholomew – piano
James Suggs – trumpet
Sudamerica Latin Groove – World Music Celebration Vol.1, September 13th, 7:30pm
Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
SLG celebrates the music that influenced their unique style in this musical journey across the globe and spanning centuries of music. A night filled with classical music, jazz, tango, boleros, rumba, bachatas, pop, rock, latin jazz and other surprises that keep audiences guessing while enjoying some original arrangements of beloved songs from all ages.
Sudamerica Latin Groove (SLG), formerly known as The Funky Tones, is a dynamic band renowned for seamlessly blending funk, jazz, rock, pop, world music, classical, and latin rhythms. Founded in 2013 in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, the band has evolved into a musical powerhouse celebrating the cultural fusion of South and North American influences. Now based in Naples, Florida, SLG features a lineup of seasoned musicians from diverse South American backgrounds: Dorian Mendez (Argentina) music direction and bass, Everton Vidal (Brazil) on guitar, Alejandro Yaguaracuto (Venezuela) on drums, Renan Gerstenberger (Paraguay) on keyboards, and Kevin Morato (Bolivia) as vocalist, complemented by sound engineer Ezequiel Soliz (Bolivia). Renowned for their infectious music that exudes vitality, Sudamerica Latin Groove seamlessly merges traditional and contemporary elements. Their electrifying performances have positioned them as an emerging force in the SWFL music scene, creating a distinctive and vibrant sound that deeply resonates with diverse audiences.
Martin—Best of Country, September 14th, 7:30pm
Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
We’re excited to welcome Martin, the talented singer-songwriter known for his soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, to Arts Bonita for his debut concert: Best of Country. With a career spanning over a decade, Martin has won over audiences with his unique blend of country and rock influences. His songs delve into themes of love, loss, and personal growth, touching the hearts of listeners everywhere.
Formerly a member of Neon Summer, a country vocal group that originated in Virginia, Martin has graced the stages of legendary venues such as Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, and the Grand Ole Opry and opened for some of the biggest names in country music, including Keith Urban, Eric Paslay, Josh Turner, Charlie Daniels, and Marty Stuart.
In this special performance, Martin will share the country classics that inspired him to write his own music. His charismatic stage presence and emotional performances have earned him a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim. Whether he’s performing solo or with a band, Martin’s authentic music always connects deeply with people.
Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of music and storytelling. Best of Country promises a night filled with timeless tunes and powerful performances that will leave you moved and inspired.
Celebrating Broadway with Mark Sanders, September 20th, 7:30pm
Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
The music of Broadway comes alive in this exciting new concert series by stage veteran and South Florida favorite Mark Sanders.
Marlow Rosado—Retro, September 21st, 7:30pm
Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Embark on a musical odyssey back to the golden era of Latin jazz with Marlow Rosado, a two-time Grammy Award winner and master of rhythm. Rosado delves deep into the pulsating beats and infectious melodies of the 1970s—the era that defined salsa and captivated the world with its irresistible allure.
The heart of the night belongs to the legendary FANIA RECORDS, the powerhouse label that propelled salsa onto the global stage. Rosado pays homage to iconic artists such as Hector Lavoe, Willie Colon, and Ray Barreto, whose revolutionary sounds shaped the landscape of Latin music.
The spirit of salsa comes alive in every electrifying note in this journey through time.
Get ready to groove, sway, and lose yourself in the intoxicating rhythms with Marlow Rosado and his seven-piece band.
Sugarhill Gang, September 27th, 7:30pm
Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Join us for an electrifying performance by the pioneers of hip-hop, the Sugarhill Gang! Bursting onto the scene in 1979 with their groundbreaking single “Rapper’s Delight,” this multi-platinum hit transformed the music landscape and introduced hip-hop to the world. Produced by the visionary Sylvia Robinson, “Rapper’s Delight” captivated audiences with its infectious beats and catchy lyrics, sampling Chic’s “Good Times” and selling over eight million copies worldwide. Don’t miss your chance to witness the group that started it all.
Everglades Blues—Stories from the Swamp, September 28th, 7:30pm
Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Everglades blues – Stories from the swamp, ventures into the Florida Everglades for forgotten stories and songs, as told by first-hand accounts of pioneer families and travelers who call it home.
It also celebrates, and supports, every effort to protect and preserve the Florida everglades and its magnificent wildlife habitat.
Musically, the swamp blues genre can be found particularly in the South East but Florida has its distinctive signature. Strong percussive rhythms, legendary chorus, soulful singing, and a no-frills-just-blues approach everybody loves.
Adult Education, Single Day Classes
Drinking Glass—Ray Matthews, September 14th, 10am–12pm
THIS CLASS IS OFF CAMPUS 5309 Shirley St. #7 Naples, FL
In each of the glassblowing experiences you will learn the basics of how to create your blown piece of art. Work side by side with Master glassblower Ray Mathews who will guide you step by step creating your blown piece. You will be working with Molten glass, glassblowers tools and also will have choice of colors. This is 100% hands on start to finish.
Intro to Stone Carving—Mertens, September 27th, 9am–12pm
Cost: $75
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Level: All
This pre-requisite session will give you all the information needed to enter the exciting world of Stone Carving. Learn about the tools you will need, types of stones, how to design your stone, important safety issues, and what it will take to complete your project.
Adult Education, Multi-Week Classes
Dance—Adult Ballet, September 10th – October 1st, 10–11am
Cost: $70 Member / $120 Non-Member
Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Elevate your grace and technique in our Beginning/Intermediate Adult Ballet class! Designed for those with some ballet experience, this class focuses on refining fundamental movements, improving strength, and enhancing flexibility. Join us to deepen your ballet practice in an encouraging and inspiring atmosphere.
Dancewear recommended for these classes includes soft ballet dance shoes (Not lady’s ballet flats) or socks, leggings or tights, and a leotard or close-fitted tee. Short ballet skirts are fine, as well.
Dance—Adult Tap, September 11th – October 2nd, 10–11am
Cost: $70 Member / $120 Non-Member
Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Step into rhythm with our Beginning/Intermediate Adult Tap class! Perfect for those with basic tap experience, this class will help you refine your technique and explore more complex rhythms in a fun, supportive environment.
Dancewear Recommendation: Comfortable, fitted clothing and tap shoes are required. Consider bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated during class.
Stretch & Strength Class, September 12th – October 3rd, 10–11am
Cost: $70 Member / $120 Non-Member
Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Rejuvenate your body and boost your fitness in our Adult Stretch/Strength class! This class combines gentle stretching with targeted strength exercises to improve flexibility, build muscle, and enhance overall well-being. Perfect for all fitness levels, join us for a balanced workout that leaves you feeling stronger and more energized.
Dancewear Recommendation: Comfortable workout attire. Students are encouraged to bring their own exercise mats and theraband resistance bands for the best experience.
Fluid Art Landscape—Tammy DeCaro, September 18th – 25th, 9am–12pm
Cost: $225 Member / $275 Non-Member, $65 supply fee
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Two sessions for this exciting fluid art class! The first class will be mixing and testing color palettes for a 16×20″ abstract landscape style painting. The second class we will add embellishments for land, grass, trees with small paint brushes to finish your work.
BRING BOXES to take home a test canvas (11×14) and large landscape 16×20″.
Fused Glass for Beginners—Pauline Weinert, September 30th – October 28th, 9am–12pm
Cost: $195 Member / $245 Non-Member
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs FL 34135
In this class, students will learn: the types of glass used in fusing, the tools, supplies, and machines provided in the Glass Studio, Glass Scoring, Kiln Firing, and different kiln schedules, Molds and mild release products, Glass thickness and the glass “rules”.
Independent Study Fused Glass (pre-req. Fused Glass for Beginners)—Pauline Weinert, September 30th – October 28th, 1–4pm
Cost: $195 Member / $245 Non-Member
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Level: All with experience
This class is for all levels with experience, beginners must take Fused Glass for beginners before taking this class. The instructor will work individually with students on projects appropriate for their skills.
Introduction to Pointed Pen Calligraphy—Megan DeSelms, September 30th – October 28th, 9–11am
Cost: $163 Member / $213 Non-Member
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Good handwriting is NOT a prerequisite to this course! Learn the basics of pointed pen calligraphy with experienced calligrapher and instructor Megan DeSelms of Inked Romance Calligraphy and Design. In this 4-session course, students will first learn about the history of pointed pen calligraphy, and be introduced to different pointed pen script styles (Copperplate, Spencerian, and Modern Calligraphy). After becoming familiar with the tools of the trade, students will learn to create the basic strokes that form every letter of the Copperplate alphabet. Phase 2 will be putting the basic strokes together to form lowercase letters (minuscules) and Phase 3 is learning the capital letters (majuscules) and numbers. Phase 4 – for intermediate/advanced students – will be creating an exemplar (complete alphabet) suitable for framing. Students of all levels are welcome – this is a semi self-paced course and students will master each phase before moving on to the next. Most students should expect to complete 1-2 phases per 4-week session.
Extreme Functional Pottery—Sandy Lawson, September 30th – October 28th, 9am–12pm
Cost: $195 Member / $245 Non-Member, $85 clay/glaze/fire fee
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Level: All
Hand builders and wheel throwers unite to design and create fun inventive table wear such as serving dishes, berry bowls, chips & dip, pitchers, and vases. Pieces may combine techniques with the addition of funky feet, handles, lugs, and lids.
Personal Pathways—Sandy Lawson, September 30th – October 28th, 1–4pm
Cost: $195 Member / $245 Non-Member, $85 clay/glaze/fire fee
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Level: All with experience – not for beginning wheel throwers.
Pursue and explore your own creative ideas with instructional guidance. Achieve personal goals in wheel throwing and hand-building by altering or combining different techniques to create something that is uniquely you.
One Night Events
Fused Glass—Clock or Square Mosaic Plate, September 12th, 5:30–8:30pm
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Sip a glass of your favorite beverage, mingle with other adventurous people, and spend an evening creating a work of art! Bring a group of friends for an evening out or come alone and meet creative folks while you make your own fused glass clock or square mosaic plate during one of our new fused glass art experiences!
Let your inner artist shine through as you learn effective two-dimensional design, fusing practices (melting glass together in a kiln), slumping (shaping glass into molds) and creation of various effects. You will marvel at your own creations as you design and melt your ideas into form!
We provide the glass, materials, wine, food and guidance.
Glazing—Raku & You, September 16th, 5:30–8:30pm
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Raku is a centuries old pottery glazing and firing process. The technique produces a lustrous, often metallic, finish. Raku & You is an evening devoted to this ancient process. Attendees choose from a number of bisque fired pots and are introduced to the history of Raku while applying glaze to their pot in their own unique design. While the outdoor kiln heats up to the correct temperature; attendees enjoy a picnic-style meal. Then the fun begins as red-hot pottery is plunged into metal containers filled with combustible material. The containers are lidded and the pots rest for a few moments before being quickly cooled with water. The results are spectacular and everyone is invited back into the studio to view each piece. Everyone goes home with their very own raku masterpiece.
Tammy DeCaro—Fluid Art: Resin & Glass Tray with Handles, September 17th, 5:30–8:30pm
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Resin and Glass on a Wood tray, all materials provided for you. Discover the many ways to use resin and glass on a wood tray to decorate your home. We will discuss mixing resin, adding pigments and glass to your work of art and review all resin safety tips. This One-Night event features a white wood tray that is 15×11″ in size. First, we will paint the background with quick-drying acrylic and then add colored resin and glass to complete your abstract art piece. Prepare to make a mess and get creative! Pieces must stay to cure overnight. Plan to pick up on Wednesday, 9/18 by 4pm. A light dinner and drinks are provided.
Mosaics Tonight, September 19th, 5:30–8:30pm
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Here’s your chance to create a beautiful mosaic artwork in one night! After enjoying a light dinner and wine, choose from beautiful images provided or create your own. The fun begins as you select gorgeous glass pieces and learn the ancient mosaic technique that will bring your image to life! We provide the glass, materials, wine, a delicious meal and artistic guidance.
Glazing—Great Bowls of Fire, September 30th, 5:30–8:30pm
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Use brilliantly colored glazes, stamp, or slip trail designs on a beautiful hand thrown ceramic bowl of your choosing. Techniques will be explained and demonstrated while you enjoy some food and drink and then off you go! Let your creativity flow and create a unique functionable bowl. Fired bowls can be picked up the following week.
We provide the materials, wine, a delicious meal and artistic guidance.
Workshops & Mini Workshops
Ceramic Teapots—Sandy Lawson, September 23rd – 27th, 9am–4pm
Cost: $510 Member / $560 Non-Member, $85 clay/glaze/fire fee
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Level: Intermediate/Advanced
Join Sandy for this wonderful imaginative workshop where you will build the teapot of your dreams! Short and stout. Tall and lean. Silly and serious. Design and create a teapot that speaks to you. An idea booklet will be provided to inspire your creativity.
Paint like Picasso—Shirley Blake, September 26th, 9:30am–3:00pm
Cost: $113 Member / $163 Non-Member
Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Think like the masters and develop both visual and verbal symbols in your communication while painting. The exercises will focus on your interpretation and creative vision. Experience is helpful but an open “anything goes” attitude is best. Critique in each class.
