Celebrate 100 years of Art Center Sarasota
March 21, 2026

You’re Invited!

We are thrilled to announce the much-anticipated return of the Beaux Arts Ball! A beloved tradition reimagined for a new era, the Ball will honor our vibrant past while toasting the creative future of Sarasota. Expect an unforgettable evening of art, elegance, and imagination, featuring dazzling décor, inspired performances, and the creative spirit that has defined Art Center Sarasota for 100 years.

Come dressed to impress—in costume if you’re feeling festive, or formal attire if you prefer to keep it classic.

Save the date: March 21, 2026

We hope you will join us as a sponsor as well. Contact Katherine at katherine@artsarasota.org to learn more.

A History of the Beaux Arts Ball

In 1949, Helen Johnston revived the event as chair of the Ball Committee. In 1949 and 1950, the Ball was held at the John Ringling Hotel. In 1951, it moved to the Lido Beach Casino and because of increased demand, in 1952, the Ball was presented at Memorial Auditorium chaired by Nancy and Jack Caldwell.

The Ball continued as an annual event through 1979, and in 2018, was revived as the Art Center’s iconcept Runway Show.

 

Historic Beaux Arts Event Images

 

Media Coverage

 

There’s More! New Events in Celebration of Our Centennial

This season also brings fresh ways to engage. Starting in November, join us for 2nd Fridays: Creative Happy Hour, our new monthly after-hours series—with hands-on printmaking nights, casual musical performances, art trivia nights, and more. For those who enjoy an easy-going night of drawing and inspiration, the new Saturday Night Sketch Club offers relaxed art-making with costumed models, still lifes, and refreshments. And launching this fall, our new speaker series, Art, Actually, explores how art intersects with identity, community, and change through conversations with artists, curators, and cultural leaders. Learn more

Thank you for your support! Questions? Please contact us.

For curated gift packages or charitable advisory fund giving, please contact Katherine Ceaser