A Year of ¡ARTE VIVA! - Celebrating Hispanic Heritage and Artistic Diversity on Florida’s Paradise Coast

Welcome to ¡ARTE VIVA! – a vibrant celebration of Hispanic heritage and artistic diversity on Florida’s Paradise Coast. Throughout the year, a wide variety of events and exhibitions pay homage to the rich cultural heritage and artistic expressions of the Hispanic community.

September 2023

The ¡ARTE VIVA! festivities kick off with a continuation of exhibitions at the Naples Botanical Garden, showcasing the fusion of nature and artistry. Notably, the exhibition from Michelle Tricca, Face of Immokalee captures the essence of Immokalee’s residents through powerful portraits.

Meanwhile, the Naples Art Institute presents The Naples Invitational, a showcase of diverse and compelling works by local and national artists running until October 15.

As Hispanic Heritage Month commences, Artis—Naples presents Tamara Kostanovsky: Botanical Revolution, an exhibition that combines the elegance of botany with contemporary artistry, running from September to April at The Baker Museum.

Meanwhile, the Naples Zoo unveils its South American Trail, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the captivating wildlife of South America.

For those seeking to delve deeper into Latin history, the Immokalee Pioneer Museum presents Celebrando Latine Through Archeology! on September 16. This event showcases the rich heritage of Immokalee’s Latin community through artifacts and stories from the past.

Additionally, mark your calendar for Movies on the Lawn at Mercato, with a special screening of Encanto on September 19. Enjoy an outdoor movie experience under the stars with friends and family.

October 2023

October brings a series of exciting events, starting with the Florida Contemporary exhibition at The Baker Museum, running from October to June 2024. This exhibition highlights the creative talent and contemporary art movements in the region.

At the Naples Art Institute, the Weaving Narratives initiative is launched, focusing on the powerful impact of storytelling through visual arts.

Immerse yourself in the heritage of Southwest Florida’s pioneers at the Immokalee Pioneer Museum’s Ancestor’s Table exhibition, running from October 6 to January 6. For an artistic take on Día de los Muertos, visit the Marco Island Center for the Arts and experience the Día de los Muertos Wall from October 6 to November 20.

In addition, the Gulfshore Playhouse presents 26 Miles, a play exploring the heartfelt complexities of family relationships, from October 12 to 29. On October 29, enjoy an evening of melodic bliss with Claude Bourbon’s Musical Interludes at the Marco Island Center for the Arts.

November 2023

As November arrives, the ¡ARTE VIVA! celebrations reach a crescendo. The Naples Botanical Garden hosts its annual Día de los Muertos celebration on November 4-5, honoring and celebrating the lives of those who have passed before us.

The Naples Art District takes inspiration from Frida Kahlo’s iconic artistry, presenting a special exhibition, Frida Kahlo Artistry Revisited. At the Marco Island Center for the Arts, immerse yourself in the melodious strains of Terra Guitarra during the Musical Interludes event on November 9.

For history enthusiasts, the Marco Island Historical Society hosts a webinar on Florida and the untold story of the Cuban Missile Crisis, based on the book Above and Beyond by Michael Tougias. Music enthusiasts can’t miss the six Grammy Award-winning Gilberto Santa Rosa, “El Caballero de Salsa” performance at Artis—Naples on November 18.

Also, explore the compelling Face of Immokalee exhibition at The Baker museum, open from November 18, 2023 to April 28, 2024, to witness how art can be a medium for social commentary.

December 2023

December embraces the holiday season while continuing to showcase Hispanic artistic contributions. The Naples Art District shines a spotlight on four talented Hispanic artists, and visitors can even participate in a festive piñata-making workshop.

January 2024

As the new year unfolds, the Marco Island Center for the Arts invites visitors to explore the fascinating Just Another Canvas: Tattoos As Art exhibition, running from January 4 to February 27. Music lovers can enjoy the soulful tunes of L-Yen during the Musical Interludes event on January 18.

February 2024

February brings an artistic homage to the iconic Pablo Picasso at the Naples Art District’s Homage to Picasso in Paradise event on February 10. Opera enthusiasts can delight in the Festival Under the Stars presented by Opera Naples.

Additionally, young audiences will be treated to La Commedia of Errors, a bilingual traveling student production by The Naples Players.

March and April 2024

March and April continue the artistic celebrations with various events like the Ave Maria Margarita and Taco Festival, the Weaving Narratives Festival at Naples Art institute, and the Marco Island National Fine Art Show.

On march 9, get your tickets to see Pink Martini featuring China Forbes at Artis—Naples. Their innovative sound blends jazz, classical, and world music genres into something that feels equally timeless and fresh. On March 14, join Dr. Ed Calle, “Legend of Latin Jazz” and Latin Grammy award winner for Best Instrumental Album (2015) for a night of extraordinary music.

¡ARTE VIVA! on Florida’s Paradise Coast is an immersive and diverse celebration that honors Hispanic heritage and artistic expression. Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades’ commitment to promoting culture, history, and art creates a dynamic and enriching experience for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re passionate about visual arts, music, history, or contemporary performances, ¡ARTE VIVA! has something to captivate you. Mark your calendars and be a part of this vibrant and culturally enriching experience on Florida’s paradise Coast. ¡Viva la vida! ¡Viva el arte!