A free opening reception for "Echoes of Sarasota," a 19-piece exhibit spanning more than 1,000 years of regional history, runs 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17 at Sarasota City Hall, 1565 First St.

Welcoming remarks begin at 4:30 p.m., and light refreshments will be served.

The exhibit pairs work by two artists with different lenses on the area's past. Regan Dunnick, a nationally recognized illustrator and longtime arts educator, created large pastel compositions depicting early Indigenous communities, familiar landscapes, environmental features and civic life across Sarasota and Bradenton. Frank Hopper's painted works focus on early settler life, Florida Cracker heritage and stories tied to labor, commerce and community identity.

Sixteen pieces hang in the City Hall lobby. Three more are on display at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, according to the city's official announcement. Supporting artwork is provided by Arts Advocates.

The installation is presented by the city in partnership with Thomsen Fine Art, steward of the Dunnick and Hopper collection. Sarasota's Public Art Committee voted unanimously on Feb. 4 to approve the exhibit, according to committee meeting minutes.

The artwork has been on display since at least June, when the City of Sarasota announced the exhibit on its official X account. The Sept. 17 reception marks the formal public opening.

The reception falls on Constitution Day and is part of the city's America 250 celebrations, tied to the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary, according to the city's event listing. The city said the exhibit comes as communities around the country reflect on their shared heritage.

"Echoes of Sarasota" is the latest rotation in the City Hall Cultural Heritage Exhibit series, which uses the lobby as a rotating gallery. The exhibit is free and open during regular City Hall hours. No closing date has been announced.

More information and installation photos are available on the city's exhibit page.

Upcoming

  • Thursday, Sept. 17, 4–6 p.m. — "Echoes of Sarasota" opening reception, Sarasota City Hall, 1565 First St. Free.