As the only statewide nonprofit representing Florida’s fine craft artists, Florida CraftArt is a member-supported organization that helps mentor and advance artists. Headquartered at 5th Street and Central Avenue, this vibrant organization has been at the center of St. Gallery visitors delight in original, handmade fine craft — ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, sculpture, and wood — created by more
than 250 of Florida’s finest craft artists. Every artist is vetted to ensure that the art is of the highest quality. During the year, there are seven curated shows in the Exhibition Gallery featuring local, regional, and national artists. Admission is always free to the galleries. Educational programming includes walking and bike mural tours, artist’s talks, lectures, hands-on activities, and workshops for adults and children. On the weekend before Thanksgiving, the annual CraftArt Festival welcomes more than 10,000 people to a free outdoor art show featuring 100 outstanding fine craft artists from around the country. The two-day festival held in downtown St. Petersburg is an ideal time for holiday gift shopping. Sponsored Emerging Artists are mentored and given the opportunity to launch and expand their careers. Founded in 1951, Florida CraftArt’s primary goal is the success of the fine craft artists of Florida, helping them develop into profitable professional artists. The gallery staff and board of directors are invested in mentoring artists in product development, marketing, pricing, and business practices. Florida CraftArt has a Permanent Collection of Fine Craft and other exhibitions that travel to art museums and organizations. On the second floor of Florida CraftArt’s 100-year-old building are ArtLofts, 20 artists’ studios. ArtLofts are open by appointment or by chance and on second Saturday ArtWalk.
