"A History of Visual Art in Sarasota" was authored by Pat Ringling Buck, a historian and freelance journalist; Marcia Corbino, an arts writer and critic; and Kevin Dean, a curator and director of the Selby Gallery at the Ringling School of Art and Design. All three authors lived in Sarasota, so their research is meticulous.

Whether you are a history buff, an art aficionado, an artist, or just want to know more about Sarasota, this book is an extraordinary resource and a fascinating story. A few highlights:

1. You will acquire a deeper understanding of the evolution of the arts in Sarasota, and a window into the work and social scene during the mid-20th century.

2. Art stimulated the growth of Sarasota as a locale for artists and collectors. You will gain insights into the importance of the visual arts in our community and region.

3. You will see the role played by the arts organizations and schools in providing a foundation in the arts for future generations.

The book also charts the beginning and the 50-year evolution of the Fine Arts Society, now branded as Arts Advocates. Page 41 contains the following: "To cap the decade, in November of 1969, an arts organization was formed: the Sarasota Fine Arts Society. It was instituted with five charter members: Winifred Clark, Emily Holmes, Adrienne Robbins, Annamae Sandegren, and Marion Storm. The founders planned to recognize the distinctive work of Florida artists by creating a permanent collection. In 1970 they made their first purchase, a Hilton Leech painting. The opening of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in January of 1970 provided the growing collection with exhibition space in the lobbies and grand foyer."

"A History of Visual Art in Sarasota" is available on Amazon with both new and used copies.

Hardcover. Full-color photographs. 160 pages. University Press of Florida; 1st edition (April 9, 2003).

Review provided by Tonya Eubank