Robert "Bob" Chase was a remarkable individual whose life and work intersected with several notable personalities, including Marie Selby, Cecil B. DeMille, Charlton Heston, and Emmett Kelly. Bob, a World War II Air Force veteran, moved to Sarasota in 1947 to attend the Ringling School of Art under the G.I. Bill. For this art talk, we will interview Rick Sanders, Bob’s son-in-law, who has taken on the responsibility of preserving Bob’s stories, photographs, and artworks.

The story of Romeo and Juliet is an enduring theme in the arts. In this lecture, Marilyn Carminio will take us on a journey to Verona, Italy to the home of our protagonists while exploring the theme of love in art. Through video clips, we will look at how the story of Romeo and Juliet has been portrayed in the theatre, ballet, sculpture, music, opera, painting, and cinema. Additionally, we will look at what social psychologists say about love at first sight, unrequited love, and heartbreak. 

With Greg Rumph and students in Booker High School’s Visual & Performing Arts Program

Greg Rumph, artist, assistant principal and head of the renowned VPA program, will speak about preparing the next generation of artists. Student talent will be showcased!

The Sarasota Opera House Tour is a treasure trove of interesting facts and backstage information. Tour the theater with knowledgeable opera staff who will share the theater's fascinating past and inside information on Sarasota Opera's world-class productions.

Take a guided tour of the paintings and sculptures owned by Arts Advocates on display at the Van Wezel. After that, step onto the stage where a Van Wezel guide will give you a peek behind the curtain and share stories and anecdotes about the colorful world of show business!

When we consider late bloomers we immediately think of Grandma Moses, who achieved artistic greatness in her 80s. Creativity does not turn off later in life! Judy Levine will present influential women artists still working into their 80s, 90s, and 100s, and discuss what keeps them creating and what are the impediments that stalled their artistic recognition.

An art enthusiast, Diane Farber attended annual art fairs in Ann Arbor, Michigan, developing an appreciation for various forms of artwork. In 2005, a friend introduced her to a glass gallery which sparked a passion for contemporary glass art. What began as a casual interest evolved into a dedicated passion. Her collection is diverse and each piece carries a personal story. 

With Barbara Ramsay, chief conservator of The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

What is the role of the conservator of a museum with hundreds of priceless paintings? How are old paintings restored to their original splendor? Ms. Ramsay will explain this ongoing behind-the-scenes effort.

Luncheons at the Sarasota Yacht Club are sponsored by Observer Media Group. 

With Peter Rothstein, producing artistic director of Asolo Repertory Theatre

When Peter Rothstein stepped into Michael Donald Edwards’ shoes, his vast experience gave him just the background he needed to guide Asolo Rep to exciting new heights. Rothstein will share his vision for Asolo’s future.

Luncheons at the Sarasota Yacht Club are sponsored by Observer Media Group. 

Take a guided tour of the paintings and sculptures owned by Arts Advocates on display at the Van Wezel. After that, step onto the stage where a Van Wezel guide will give you a peek behind the curtain and share stories and anecdotes about the colorful world of show business!