Petticoat Painters:

Now You See Us

The Petticoat Painters is one of the oldest continuously exhibiting women's art groups in the U.S. This group was formed in 1953 in Sarasota, Florida to showcase the talents of female artists at a time when women had difficulty in finding venues to show their work.

“Honoring our history, we support professional woman artists, offering a community of growth and shared experience culminating in group exhibitions.”

— 2025 Petticoat Painters Mission Statement

The Petticoat Painters, Now You See Us: Closing Celebration!

Not Merely Survivors, but Thrivers!

Friday, March 27, 2026 | 4:00 - 6:00p.m.

City Hall Lobby and Promenade | Sarasota City Hall, 1565 1st St. | Artist Demonstrations | Multidisciplinary Program

"Now You See Us" Sarasota’s Own Petticoat Painters 1953-2026

A City Hall Cultural Heritage Exhibit, on display March 2025 through March 2026 

Can you name five women artists off the top of your head? We’ll give you help with that answer as we celebrate Women's History Month with the Petticoat Painters’ Now You See Us Cultural Heritage exhibit at City Hall. The show closes at the end of the month, but we will be celebrating this year-long exhibition with art demonstrations and live performances by students from Booker High School’s Visual & Performing Arts Program. Public Art Committee Vice Chair Maria Schaedler-Luera will also be on hand to facilitate interactive discussions about the art works. This is your chance to meet the artists and celebrate the lasting influence and creative vision of this historic women’s art group. Read Full Story Here