Looking to gallery hop this winter? These standout spots have showstopping reasons to pop in.
Gardner Colby Gallery
Gardner Colby Gallery, located off Naples’ Third Street South, offers a welcoming, light-filled space with plenty of room for the art to breathe. “The gallery is considered one of the Southeast’s most highly regarded art destinations, appealing to both the seasoned collector and first-time buyer,” says owner Nancy Winch, who founded the business in 1994. Discover a range of paintings, sculptures and art glass by 35 contemporary North American makers along with seasonal exhibitions. “Our consulting team has set the bar for women-owned and women-run galleries,” adds Pamela Campe, gallery director. Starting January 15, connoisseurs can peep Kevin Sloan’s exhibition “Paintings from Paradise Beach,” which is meant to spark conversation about humans’ relationship with nature, while Kelsey Irvin’s nostalgia-tinged “Memories Past & Present” opens March 12.
The Corner Seat
State Of The Arts Gallery
When curating State of the Arts Gallery, housed in an expansive space in Sarasota’s historic downtown district, owner Tre Michel says she treats it as a narrative. “We think of each piece installed in a client’s home as a story to share with guests—and that translates into a home full of stories, not just a showplace,” she explains. Michel concentrates on a variety of mediums, from large-scale paintings and graffiti to textiles and sculptures. She represents artists from Argentina, Poland, Montréal and the Czech Republic. “We focus on a collection of pieces that you haven’t seen anywhere else,” Michel says. “Each work is selected because it is innovative, fresh or mysterious in some way.” What’s on tap for 2025: “This year is all about adventures in bold choices,” she notes.
Quidley & Company
With galleries in Naples and Nantucket, Quidley & Company features a roster of artists who hail from around the globe. “It is our goal to introduce a wide range of approaches and techniques that stray from traditional Florida imagery,” reveals director and cofounder Chris Quidley. “We present artwork we believe will enhance someone’s environment, bringing enjoyment and potential collectability for years to come.” With the new year comes exciting new events: In January, catch a showcase by U.K. artist Nick Veasey, who creates extraordinary works by manipulating his X-ray photography, and in March the gallery will host a group exhibition of 12 artists whose pieces portray the automobile.
Mark Eastridge's Into The Wind