OSPREY, FL (May 20, 2026) Big Waters Land Trust invites the community to their annual Community Art Show Opening Reception on Wednesday, June 3. The reception will take place from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the not-for-profit land trust’s Bay Preserve headquarters in Osprey (400 Palmetto Ave, Osprey, 34229). During the event, the jury-selected Best-In-Show winner will be revealed along with three merit award honorees.
With a focus on paintings and drawings, this juried art exhibit showcases local natural lands through the eyes of community members. Big Waters accepted Florida-centric submissions showcasing nature throughout April, and a jury of local artists and a professional curator selected the pieces for the final exhibit.
“It is always a delight to see nature through the eyes of our conservation community,” comments Christine P. Johnson, president of Big Waters Land Trust. “The collection our jurors selected for inclusion truly highlights the beauty and diversity of Florida as well as the need to save it. We look forward to welcoming the public to the opening reception on June 3.”
Jurors evaluated submissions based on how well the artist showcased nature, their use of color and texture, attention to detail, and the overall composition of the piece. Artist names were omitted during the selection process. Jurors include Alicia Brown, a Jamaican contemporary realist painter known for her captivating work that blends technical precision with rich storytelling; Jen Kroeger, a multidisciplinary artist whose vibrant paintings, mixed media, and textile works reflect her love of bold color and the natural world; and Christa Molinaro, Director of Exhibitions at the Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art and Design.
Registration for the reception is required. Reserve your space at bigwaterslandtrust.org/casreception.
Following the opening reception, the exhibit will be on display from June 3 through August 31, 2026. Viewing hours are Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Please call 941-918-2100 with questions, set up a time for viewing, and inquire about holiday hours.
About Big Waters Land Trust
Big Waters protects Florida’s land and water for the benefit of people and nature. Through strategic collaborations with individuals, groups, organizations, and government, they work to ensure all people have access to clean water, fresh air, nutritious food, abundant wildlife, beautiful natural areas to enjoy, and all the other physical and mental benefits nature provides. Their vital work strengthens Florida’s resiliency to storms and floods, enriches lives, and helps safeguard our community for generations to come. Learn more at bigwaterslandtrust.org.
