Visual Arts Center — Attraction in Punta Gorda

A friend and I are taking a watercolor class at the VAC. We have absolutely no experience with art, so I'm sure our teacher, Mairin Wilson, sometimes wonders what she signed up for. But she is super patient with us and makes the class fun, and we have learned a LOT. Bonnie at the reception area is very welcoming and friendly. She is so enthusiastic about what we are doing in class and about everything going on at the center. She is such an asset to the VAC. She could get anybody excited about anything. The exhibits are amazing. They have very talented artists here. I have always had an appreciation for art, but after taking the watercolor class, I am blown away by what watercolor artists do. If you're thinking of taking any kind of class here, whether you have any experience...

Great place! My first time visiting. One piece of art caught my attention. This artist did a scratchboard (?) of John Lennon, George Harrison and Stuart Sutcliffe - the Beatles in their early Germany years. This was before they met Ringo or even their manager Brian Epstein. I found it interesting that Sutcliffe was put in color, whereas John and George were in black/white. The artist must have a special interest in him, because he died tragically young from a brain aneurysm. He and Lennon were friends who met at the same art school. Beatles fans would like this...

I've been a member for several years. I love going in to just look at all the different art. They do a lot of showcases/exhibits for members and nonmembers to display their art and even have a chance at winning money. The first showcase I ever entered here (photography showcase) I won 1st place in. If you're looking for something new to do, and you appreciate all different types of art, go check it out. There's a gift shop, and they offer classes in a bunch of different types of art, I'm hoping to take on in...