History of the Sea Grape Gallery

After four years of planning by a dedicated group of 25 local artists, Sea Grape Gallery officially opened its doors as a cooperative artists’ gallery on April 24, 1988.  First located in the old Punta Gorda Mall at the corner of Marion Avenue and US 41 N, the gallery moved across the street a year later, and eventually up a few doors to its present location at 113 W. Marion Ave.  Watercolorist Marion Burmeister is credited with the idea of opening a gallery to provide these award-winning artists a professional setting to display and sell their work.  Sea Grape was an instant hit, since at that time it was the only showcase for fine art in Punta Gorda.  Today, it is one of several galleries in this charming and historic waterfront town, and remains a popular place to buy original fine art paintings and high quality three dimensional art pieces.  Artist members have always shared in the decisions, responsibilities and expenses of running this small business, and also take turns staffing the gallery, providing an opportunity for the public to meet with the artists.  Of the original 25 members, Vera Barlow, known for her delightful porcelain and stoneware birds, is the only founding member still active, although several current artists have been with the gallery for many years.  Although over time the membership has changed through natural attrition, the variety and quality of the artwork remains constant. As a 501(C)(3) not-for-profit corporation, Sea Grape provides many services to the community.  These activities include scholarship awards to graduating high school art students, participation in charitable fund raising events, support and promotion of county-wide art events, coordination of art demonstrations and receptions, and participation in local downtown merchant events, such as Gallery Walk and Holly Days.   Even Hurricane Charley in August, 2004, did not dampen the spirit of these artists. Although their building was severely damaged by the storm, the members continued to meet and plan for a re-opening which finally took place on November 30, 2005, in the brightly refurbished gallery.  This event was warmly received by the community, and Sea Grape has enjoyed continued growth and success.  Today’s award-winning artist members are proud to be a part of the gallery’s long tradition and history, and are pleased to have taken part in celebrating Sea Grape Gallery’s 20th anniversary in 2008.