Sarasota, FL: A new exhibition showcasing the works of the Petticoat Painters will be displayed in the atrium at City Hall, 1565 1st Street beginning Monday, March 17 as part of Women’s History Month. The exhibit, entitled “Now You See Us,” is part of the Cultural Heritage Exhibit series, which was created to celebrate the City’s many cultural legacies through museum-quality visual arts experiences.

Formed in 1953, the Petticoat Painters is one of the oldest continuously exhibiting women’s art groups in the country. The collective was formed to showcase the talents of female artists at a time when women had difficulty finding venues to display their work. Seven women participated in the group’s first show held at a local Sarasota gallery, as well as selected the troupe’s now storied namesake. Since then, the moniker continues to be used both in honor of the founding artists and to retain the group’s historical signature as it explores new themes and contemporary thinking.

The exhibit will contain pieces from the collective’s 20 members and will be refreshed with new works after six months.

“The significance of installing this collection during Women’s History Month in March is twofold,” said Ciera Coleman, City of Sarasota Public Art Administrator. “Not only does the collection embody women’s empowerment through these artists and their mission, but their historic connection to Sarasota is also something that we’re proud to spotlight for our residents.”

There will be a free opening reception and accompanying public lecture from 4 – 6 p.m. on Friday, March 21 at City Hall, with a short presentation in the Commission Chambers beginning at 4:30 p.m. Limited space is available on a first come first served basis. Reservations are not necessary.

The exhibit is free and open to the public during regular City Hall hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday – Friday.

The City Hall Cultural Heritage Exhibit launched in November 2022 to beautify the City Hall lobby while sharing Sarasota and Florida’s rich history in arts and culture. Pieces are on a 6-month rotation. Previous exhibitors include the Highwaymen Art Experts, Inc., Arts Advocates, The Circus Arts Conservatory, The Sarasota Architecture Center and the Sarasota County History Center archive.