Why Belonging to the Art Council of Southwest Florida is a Game-Changer for Local Art Organizations

If you are part of an arts organization in Southwest Florida or are thinking about becoming one, joining the Art Council of Southwest Florida (ACSWF) offers advantages that can elevate your presence, expand your reach, and deepen your impact in the regional arts community.

A Unified Voice for the Arts in Southwest Florida

Founded as a nonprofit umbrella organization, ACSWF brings together visual arts groups across five counties—Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades—representing more than 6,000 artists and craftspeople. This collective strength amplifies the voice of the arts community in Southwest Florida, creating greater regional and beyond visibility and influence.

Exclusive Exhibition Opportunities

One of the most compelling benefits of membership is access to two biennial signature exhibits: The Spring Art Show (held in even-numbered years) and The Winners’ Circle (held in odd-numbered years)

Only artists from ACSWF’s affiliate member organizations can submit work to these prestigious showcases—an excellent platform to gain recognition and connect with art lovers and collectors.

COCO Art Galleries — A Creative Hub for Members

ACSWF owns and operates the COCO Art Galleries in Estero and Naples, offering unique venue opportunities exclusively for artist members. Being part of an affiliate organization gives artists the chance to:

• Exhibit their work in a professional gallery setting.

• Host monthly member shows without rental fees.

• Organize and host gallery receptions to attract broader audiences.

  
  

This kind of exposure and presentation can significantly advance an artist’s career and bring community attention to your group’s creative efforts.

The success of your artists in the COCO Art Galleries directly benefits your organization, as well as the artists, through commissions paid to your member organization for every sale one of your members makes in the galleries.

Promotion and Networking Across the Region

Membership isn’t just about exhibits—it’s also about connection. ACSWF actively supports its members by:

• Promoting member organization events and activities on its website

• Listing member organizations and links online to drive traffic and awareness

• Offering networking opportunities during council meetings, where leaders and artists can share ideas, strategies, and collaborations

  
  

These platforms are invaluable for building relationships, sharing resources, and strengthening the arts ecosystem across Southwest Florida.

Strength Through Shared Purpose

By aligning with other established art organizations—from art leagues to specialty groups—you become part of a vibrant regional community dedicated to expanding art appreciation and creative opportunities. Whether your focus is education, exhibition, collaboration, or community engagement, ACSWF helps elevate your mission by connecting you with others who share your vision.

In short: joining the Art Council of Southwest Florida empowers arts organizations to showcase talent, gain visibility, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to a thriving cultural landscape. For any art group committed to growth and community impact, membership isn’t just beneficial—it's transformative.

Author, JoAnne Crowson