Art in the Park 2025 Call for Artists

Artists of all disciplines, near or afar, young or not, emerging or established, are invited to participate in the 40th anniversary of Hernando County’s premier art show, Art in the Park. Hosted by the Hernando County Fine Arts Council, the event is scheduled to take place March 8 and 9, 2025, at Tom Varn Park, 301 Darby Lane, in Brooksville. This call for artists is now live and offered through Jan. 10.

Art in the Park is an annual event dedicated to fine art, craftsmanship, and community and creates a unique opportunity and tradition for artists, collectors, and patrons of the arts. Artists and artisans will be able to showcase their work in a natural setting surrounded by beautiful oak trees in Brooksville, Florida.

“We are thrilled to bring this milestone event of fine art to our community once again, showcasing the talents of hundreds of artists and crafters,” said Jessica Knutila, Arts Council spokesperson. “More than 100 arts exhibitors from 12 states and abroad were represented in 2024, and we are expecting many more this year.”

Art in the Park offers a diverse forum for arts of all kinds. Featured media include fine arts painting, fine arts ceramics, fine crafts, fine arts drawing and graphics, fine arts fibers, sculpture, jewelry, photography, digital art, and mixed media.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 8, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 9. Entry is complimentary, with a suggested $5 parking donation to benefit the Hernando County arts community directly.

This year will mark the 40th annual show, bringing in a diverse crowd of more than 6,000 attendees from not only Hernando County and neighboring communities but also from all over the US and abroad. Awards total $6,500 in cash prizes, including a $1,250 prize for Best in Show. Judging will be held Saturday, March 8 from 9 a.m. to completion. Awards will be presented at the Saturday Night Artists’ Reception and be featured on the Hernando County Fine Arts Council website and social media platforms.

Allisa Babor, Hernando County Fine Arts Council Chair, said, “We are thrilled to honor four decades of creativity and community here in the county. This milestone event is a testament to the incredible talent of the artists who have shared their work with us over the years and the unwavering support of our sponsors and patrons.”

“We invite artists to join us in showcasing their talents and sponsors to partner with us in making this landmark event unforgettable. Together, we can continue to grow this cherished tradition and inspire future generations through the arts,” said Babor.

Festivities at the weekend-long event will include engaging musical performances, dancing, interactive performances, installations, and live art demonstrations from a large selection of musicians and artists.

“We are passionate about creating a unique opportunity for artists, collectors, and art lovers alike by bringing together many art forms to entertain all weekend long,” Knutila said. “This will be a celebration of artistry in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.”

Student art, along with the fostering of creative talent in young people, also plays a vital role in the proceedings at Art in the Park. “This event is family-friendly,’ said Knutila, “with a full Children’s Experience Area with free art activities for kids.”

Artists may apply directly for inclusion in AITP by filling out the application available at https://www.zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=12497. Here, artists can reference necessary information on rules and regulations, booth space, rates, and fees, etc. Accepted artists will be notified of their inclusion later this month. Be sure to get your applications in before the deadline on Jan. 10.

Knutila invites all to this signature, time-honored event on the Hernando County arts scene. “Come show support for the Arts Council as we present our 40th annual Art in the Park!’ she said. “We couldn’t do it without the support of our amazing arts community. Special thanks to our sponsors and all of our community partners and donors who make Art in the Park possible!”

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a historic celebration that uplifts our local arts community and beyond. Reach out via email at [email protected] to learn more about becoming a sponsor and visit www.aitphernando.com for general show information and show applications.”