ART BEAT

BY ROSANNE KNORR

A stroll through Sarasota’s historic artist colony is a perfect way to spend a day.

Oaks draped in Spanish moss tower over gingerbread cottages painted lime green, pink and purple. Wander into one of these homes, and you may well see an artist struggling to finish his painting or a sculptor selling her works.

The Towles Court Arts District (www.towlescourt.com), south of Main Street between Washington Boulevard and Osprey Avenue, is an artist colony—a creative setting where galleries and studios (that double as artists’ homes) flourish. Restaurants, cafés and boutiques have sprung up in recent years, as well.

Originally home to a nine-hole golf course and residence belonging to Sarasota’s fi rst mayor, the land was transformed into a small residential neighborhood by William B. Towles in the 1920s. As people started to move out of downtown, the area fell into disrepair. In 1983, developer N.J. Olivieri made plans to restore it as a historical neighborhood. Th at is until 1995, when he met acrylic painter Kathleen Carrillo—who had converted a cottage into a studio and gallery. Changing course, the two painted homes in eye-catching shades, beckoning artists to come. “I contacted lots of people about participating in an artist community and was lucky to live this dream,” Carrillo says.

Bette Stevens, president of the Towles Court Artists Association, now owns Carrillo’s original space, renamed Elizabeth Stevens Gallery (941-365-4222). It’s filled with paintings and sculpture, including Carrillo’s vibrant acrylics. She lists the colony’s diverse art as “everything from oils to watercolors to blown glass, jewelry and pottery.”

It’s true—the off erings are plentiful and diverse. The spacious Katharine Butler Gallery (www.kbutlergallery.com) holds photographs, oils, pastels, ceramics and jewelry, while Works in Clay (941-224-0040) is full of ceramic sculptor June Ansorge’s whimsical works. Th e largest two-story building fronting Adams Street is subdivided into artist studios. Visit Ashby Art & Antiques (941-954-4263) for wall décor, paintings and wearable art; Meg Pierce (http://megpierce.com) for beautifully designed mandalas; and have your portrait painted at Jon Greeley Studio (www.jongreeleyart.com).

Because Towles Court is a working artist colony, galleries aren’t always open. The best time to visit is Tuesday through Saturday between 11am and 4pm—except during Art Walk, when they stay open late the third Friday of the month. Browse art, sip wine and mingle with the artists who make it all happen.

COURTSIDE EATING

From casual to elegant, Towles Court’s restaurants mix beautifully with the artistic surroundings.

Deja Brew (941-951-1837) is the perfect place to go for a midday pick-me-up. Grab a bite and a specialty coffee drink.

Lavanda (www.lavandasarasota.com; 941-366-0070) has a wraparound porch, perfect for a leisurely drink or gourmet meal.

Canvas Café Gallery and Wine/ Coffee Bar (www.canvascafesrq.com; 941-366-2233) offers eclectic cuisine with a side of art.