Our Mission

The Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs is committed to enrich the culture of our diverse community by providing opportunities for artistic expression, education and appreciation in a supportive and nurturing environment.

Vision Values

Our vision is fulfilled through programs in the visual and performing arts. Art builds bridges between communities, generations and nationalities. It serves as a common denominator among all economic groups and stimulates local economies. By instilling individuals with a feeling of self-worth and confidence, art encourages positive attitudes and helps people cope with change. Art can be therapeutic. It opens people's minds to new possibilities and their hearts to new understanding. A catalyst for friendships, art provides a foundation for shared experience.

The Center for the Arts began in 1959 when Ruth Hardy gathered 15 artists and conducted the first community art classes at the old Village Clubhouse, the site of the present Community Center on Old 41 Road. As Bonita Springs has grown, the Center for the Arts has kept pace providing opportunities for artistic expression, education and appreciation in a supportive and nurturing environment.

Phase I of our 10-acre campus was opened in April of 2000, providing galleries, painting and drawing studios, offices and a lovely gift shop.

Two years later, in November of 2002, we opened Phase II, introducing our Morean Clay Studio and kiln room; our Sculpture Studios; Computer Studio and Lab; Printmaking and Photography Studio; and Braniff Library.

The Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs Center for the Arts is the cultural heart of the community; offering a wide variety of classes for all ages. The campus consists of classrooms, two galleries, office spaces, a library and gift shop. Members and artists of the Center for the Arts offer their time and talents to bring a variety of outreach programs to local schools, neighborhoods and organizations. The Center for the Arts hosts two National Arts Festivals each year, in January and March - drawing talented artists from all across the United States and the world.

The Center for the Arts provides year round programs in many disciplines for all who wish to learn, study or simply appreciate a wide variety of art and cultural events. The Center for the Arts is a place for all seasons and people of all ages.