The art of island living
On many of our islands, the streets are practically lined with pastel-painted galleries where the artists of Southwest Florida proudly display their work. You won’t have to look far to discover local artistry or learn more about the area’s storied past.
Perhaps the most eclectic of our creative communities is Matlacha. Here, galleries like Lovegrove Gallery & Gardens inspire visitors with endless brightly colored paintings and sculptures inspired by the coast. Nearby on Captiva, walk through a garden of bronze sculptures at Jungle Drums, or explore the rooms of art in a converted 1926 beach house at Tower Gallery Cooperative.
For those interested in the dramatic arts, the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in downtown Fort Myers River District embraces the starring role. This 1933 architectural icon hosts a rotating catalogue of dance, theater and musical performances in addition to film screenings.
If you prefer your entertainment at a higher volume, explore a music scene nothing short of rockin’. Venues like Buddha Rock Club frequently host touring musicians as well as a cast of resident bands and DJs. Plus, down by the seaside, catch an acoustic performance nearly any night of the week at beach dives like The Cottage and The Beached Whale.