“Echoes of Sarasota” Free Public Docent Led Art Tours – Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Experience “Echoes of Sarasota,” a cultural heritage exhibition presented in partnership with Thomsen Fine Art with supporting works curated by Arts Advocates. The exhibition brings together mural‑scale pastel and painted works by Regan Dunnick and Frank Hopper, offering an accessible look at more than a century of Sarasota’s cultural and civic history. Their artwork highlights early communities, recognizable landscapes, environmental features, and the traditions that shaped Sarasota’s identity. Arts Advocates further enriches the exhibition with historic works by Florida artists, adding depth and continuity to the narrative. Together, the City Hall and Van Wezel installations create a unified experience that invites visitors to explore Sarasota’s history through expressive, story‑driven artwork.

Free docent led tours at both Sarasota City Hall and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall offer a welcoming and engaging way to learn about the exhibition. Tours are supported by the Johnson Singer Arts and Education Fund, which uplifts teaching artists and strengthens arts and education programming for youth and seniors.

Tour Dates

All tours take place on Tuesdays from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Tuesday, October 20

Tuesday, November 17

Tuesday, December 15

Tuesday, January 19

Tuesday, February 16

Tuesday, March 16

Tuesday, April 20

Location

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

777 North Tamiami Trail

Sarasota, Florida

City Hall Companion Tour

For information and tickets to the companion tour featuring the main “Echoes of Sarasota” installation at City Hall, please visit our City Hall tour page.

Tickets

Free admission. Advance registration recommended. For tickets, visit: https://VanWezelArtTour.eventbrite.com

About the Docent: Barbara Sander

Barbara Sander is an experienced arts advocate and longtime docent with the Fine Arts Society of Sarasota. She has chaired docent programs for art tours at the Van Wezel and has served on multiple arts and cultural boards. Barbara brings a deep appreciation for visual arts, strong knowledge of Sarasota’s cultural landscape, and a warm, engaging approach to guiding visitors through the exhibition

Presented by the City of Sarasota Public Art Program

These docent led tours are offered as part of the City’s ongoing commitment to bringing accessible, high‑quality public art experiences to residents and visitors. The Public Art Program integrates art throughout Sarasota’s civic spaces, cultural facilities, and neighborhoods to celebrate community identity and support meaningful engagement with the arts.

For more information, visit www.SarasotaFL.gov/Public-Art.