Supporting Lakeland Artists Year-Round: How to Keep Creativity Thriving in the Community

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Mayfaire by-the-Lake is a fantastic celebration of local creativity, but the art doesn’t stop when the festival ends! Lakeland is home to a vibrant community of artists who contribute to the city’s unique cultural identity all year long. Supporting these talented creators throughout the year not only fosters their growth but also enriches the community. Here are some meaningful ways to engage with and support Lakeland artists beyond the festival season.

Visit Local Galleries and Museums

• Polk Museum of Art

  • A cornerstone of Lakeland’s art scene, the museum offers rotating exhibits, educational programs, and events that showcase both local and international talent. Frequent visits help sustain this vital institution.

• Pop-Up Exhibitions

  • Many Lakeland artists host pop-up shows or display their work in cafes, libraries, and small galleries. Keep an eye out for these intimate opportunities to connect with creators.

Support Lakeland Artists Through Purchases

• Buy Local Art

  • Invest in original pieces or prints from local artists. Whether you’re decorating your home or looking for unique gifts, purchasing art directly from creators has a powerful impact on their livelihood.

• Shop at Artisan Markets

  • Markets like the Downtown Farmers Curb Market and First Friday Art Walks are excellent opportunities to discover handmade goods, jewelry, and crafts from Lakeland’s artists.

Engage on Social Media

• Follow and Share

  • Find Lakeland artists on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Liking, sharing, and commenting on their posts helps widen their audience and encourages their creative efforts.

• Stay Updated

  • Social media is often where artists announce upcoming events, workshops, and new projects. Following them ensures you’re always in the loop.

Participate in Workshops and Events

• Join Art Classes

  • Many local artists offer workshops or one-on-one lessons for adults and children. Learn a new skill while supporting their work.

• Attend Art Walks and Open Studios

  • Events like First Friday Art Walks and open studio days let you meet artists, view their workspaces, and learn more about their creative process.

Advocate for Public Art

• Support Murals and Installations

  • Lakeland’s public art projects, like downtown murals, rely on community enthusiasm and funding. Advocate for new installations or contribute to projects that bring creativity to shared spaces.

• Participate in Community Art Projects

  • Join in collaborative projects like mural painting or interactive installations to help enhance Lakeland’s artistic landscape.

Collaborate with Local Organizations

• Volunteer with Art Groups

  • Many organizations, like the Polk Museum of Art, welcome volunteers to help with events, classes, and outreach programs.

• Sponsor Artistic Events

  • If you own a business or work for a local company, consider sponsoring art events or exhibitions to further support the community’s creative growth.

Celebrate Art in Everyday Life

• Incorporate Local Art into Your World

  • Decorate your home or office with artwork from Lakeland creators to keep their vision alive in your daily life.

• Gift Art

  • Give friends and family pieces created by Lakeland artists, spreading the word about their talent while sharing something truly unique.

Supporting Lakeland’s artists year-round strengthens the creative fabric of the city and ensures that events like Mayfaire are just the beginning of what the community can achieve together. Whether it’s through a purchase, a workshop, or simply sharing their work, every act of support matters. Together, we can keep Lakeland’s artistic spirit thriving!