Ocala Metro Art Scene

08/06/2026

🎨Calling all artists and Clermont enthusiasts!

Clermont Main Street is seeking local and regional artists to participate in their first public art initiative, "With Love From Clermont."
Selected artists will create an original 2' × 3' painting inspired by a historic Clermont photograph, reimagining our community's history through their own unique artistic style. From rolling hills and citrus groves to downtown streets, recreation, and community celebrations, artists will choose from a curated collection of historic photographs that capture the stories and spirit of Clermont.

✨ Artist honorarium: $300
📅 Application deadline: August 7, 2026
📍 Artwork unveiling: September 13 at the Clermont Farmers' Market

Applications require your contact information and a portfolio of previous work. No preliminary sketches are required. Following the unveiling, the artwork will be displayed throughout Downtown Clermont before being auctioned to benefit future Clermont Main Street initiatives.

Ready to apply? ➡️
Visit www.clermontdowntown.com/wlfc for complete project details, timelines, FAQs, and the application.

07/31/2026

Make plans to enjoy incredible art tomorrow!

07/30/2026

Join us this weekend for the Arts at The Canopy grand opening! Open to the public this Saturday and Sunday from 10 - 6PM, award-winning artist Jefffery A. Moore launches a dynamic new Art Gallery, connecting local artists with the community of Ocala.

This weekend, visitors will have the opportunity to engage directly with over 20 multimedia artists, gain insight into their creative processes, and experience artwork in an environment where creation, education, and connection intersect.

07/23/2026

Hosting an arts or cultural event in Marion County? We want to help you spread the word!

The Ocala Metro Art Scene Community Calendar is your year-round destination for discovering and promoting the incredible arts and cultural events happening throughout our community.

Whether you're a:
🎤 Restaurant or brewery featuring a local musician or DJ
🖼️ Gallery hosting an opening reception
🎨 Artist teaching a workshop or crafting class
📚 Bookstore planning a poetry night
🦸 Comic shop hosting Cosplay Saturday
🎭 Theater, museum, arts organization, or local business with a creative event...
..we want to feature it!

Our calendar is designed to connect residents and visitors with the vibrant arts and culture scene happening right here in Marion County. Best of all, it's a great way to gain more visibility and reach new audiences.

✨ Add your events for free on our website (LINK IN BIO) and showcase the creativity that makes our community so special.

07/22/2026

Looking for a fun way to get creative this month?

Be sure to check out everything happening at the Marion County Maker Collective! Each month, they host 9–10 FREE community events where you can learn a new skill, meet fellow makers, explore your creativity, or even share your own knowledge with others.

Whether you're into crafting, creating, building, or simply trying something new, there's something for everyone in this welcoming maker community.

📅 Visit their website and social media pages for this month's event schedule and details.

07/08/2026

🚨 Artists—don't let this deadline pass you by!

Applications for the 59th Annual Ocala Arts Festival close July 15, and we'd love to see our local creative community represented!

If you're an emerging artist wondering if you're "ready," FAFO has a program just for you. Their Emerging Artist Program is designed for artists who are building their careers and offers mentorship, professional festival experience, and a grant package worth more than $1,200 to help make exhibiting more accessible.

The festival takes place October 24 & 25 in historic downtown Ocala and features over 150 artists, student artwork, live entertainment, delicious food, and thousands of visitors celebrating the arts.

This could be the opportunity that helps take your artwork to the next level.

📅 Deadline: July 15
🖌️ Apply today: fafo.org/artistinfo

Tag an artist who needs to see this! 👇

07/06/2026

MAX has two Resident Artist Studio spaces available! See details below 😀

🎨 Ready to take your artistic journey to the next level?

Magnolia Art Xchange (MAX) has two Resident Artist Studio spaces becoming available!

Our Resident Artist Program offers dedicated studio space, opportunities to exhibit your work, professional development, and the chance to become part of Ocala's vibrant creative community.

If you're a committed artist looking to grow your practice and connect with fellow creatives, we'd love to hear from you.

Applications are due by July 31.

Learn more about the program and apply at:
maxocala.org/resident-artists

06/03/2026

📢 CALL TO ARTISTS: Dine & Art Experience at The Whistling Duck
Local artists, a new outdoor art opportunity is coming to The Whistling Duck located On Top of the World!

They’re creating a vibrant Dine & Art Experience, transforming the patio into an outdoor gallery where guests can explore, connect, and purchase original artwork. Independent artists, college students, and emerging creatives are all encouraged to apply.

Selected artists will be able to display and sell their work throughout the space. Covered areas will be available. Dates and times will be announced soon.

If you’re interested, email General Manager Ernie Hernandez at:
📧 [email protected]

Please include:
• A few photos of the artwork you’d like to display
• Your art style or medium
• Social media or portfolio links
• Approximate space needs for your setup

A great chance to share your creativity with the community and be part of a brand‑new art experience in Ocala!

06/02/2026

Summer 2026 is here and Ocala’s art camps are ready to inspire! From colorful painting sessions to lively drama and dance workshops, there’s something for every young artist. Discover all the creative adventures waiting. Visit each camp’s website for more info!

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04/18/2026

🎨 CALL TO ARTISTS — CITY OF OCALA 🎨
Florida artists, The City of Ocala is seeking qualified artists for the Mount Moriah Commemorative Public Art Project, a meaningful installation that will honor the historic Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church and its profound impact on our community.

The artwork will be located outside the new Ocala parking garage and should reflect deep respect for the site’s history, legacy, and the congregation it represents. This RFQ will select three finalists, each receiving a stipend to develop a concept proposal. Total project budget: $40,000.

This is an opportunity to create a lasting tribute to one of Ocala’s most significant cultural and spiritual landmarks, known as “The Mother Church” in the Black religious community.

For artists ready to make an impact, this is a powerful moment to step forward.

🗓️ The DEADLINE IS APRIL 19!

🔗 For more details and to explore more open calls, visit our website at https://ocalametroartscene.com/