Friday May 16, 2025 -
Saturday May 17, 2025

Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center

525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota, FL 34236

Join us for the culmination of the Creative Nexus series at our summit, a two day event dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and professional growth, specifically tailored for BIPOC and LGBTQ artists. This event is a premier networking opportunity and an immersive experience in entrepreneurship and business essentials designed to cater to artists across all disciplines. Participate in panels and workshops covering crucial topics such as business planning, marketing, and collaborative strategies in the arts. Connect with industry leaders and fellow artists who are pioneering inclusive approaches and breaking barriers within the arts industry.

The summit celebrates innovation and diversity, equipping you with the tools to thrive in the artistic profession. Enhance your network and career prospects in a dynamic, supportive environment. Come be part of this transformative experience!

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Schedule At-a-Glance 

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Friday, May 16, 2025 – “Cuttin’ Up” Art Installation Opening Night & Artist Market

Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

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• 6:00–7:00 PM | Artist Social (registered attendees only)

• 7:00–9:00 PM | Public Opening: Art Installation + Market

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Celebrate with music, drinks, and a vibrant art market featuring works from local artists and music by DJ Bass God.

Saturday, May 17, 2025 – Full-Day Summit

Creative Nexus Day-Long Summit

Time: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

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9:00–9:30 AM: Welcome Breakfast & Community Grounding

9:30–10:30 AM: Keynote Presentation
Art as Activism: Transforming Communities Through Creativity with Jahman Hill – award-winning poet, filmmaker, playwright, professor and director of The Flourish Alabama.

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10:45 AM – 12:15 PM: Morning Workshops (Choose One)

Option 1:

Beyond the Studio: How to Break into Galleries, Museums, and Collector Circles Led by Artist: Alicia Brown

Gain tactical insight into building your artistic brand, presenting your work confidently, and building meaningful relationships with curators and collectors.

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Option 2: 

Art & Law: Navigating the Legal Landscape for Creatives Led by Attorney Ama Appiah

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Learn key legal basics like copyright, trademarks, and contracts to protect your art and creative business.

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12:30 – 1:30 PM: Networking Lunch

Sit at themed tables (e.g. visual arts, writing, performance) and connect with peers and mentors.

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1:30 – 3:30 PM: Panel- “Going Beyond Grants for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Artists”

Explore funding models beyond traditional grants with a panel led by Springboard for the Arts, featuring Candida Gonzalez, Mikha Dominguez, Anitra Budd, and Ka Oskar.​

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3:30 – 4:15 PM: Panel- “Possibilities – Thriving at the Intersection of Identity and Creativity”

A conversation with local artists Elizabeth Doud, Travis Ray, Etienne “EJ” Porter, and Nate Jacobs on creativity, identity, and resilience in the arts, moderated by artist Melanie Lavender.​

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4:30 – 6:00 PM: Live Performance Showcase

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Experience live music, spoken word, and theater performances from featured artists:

• Yvonne Batanero (Theater)

• Jahman Hill (Poet)

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Why Attend?

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• Build meaningful connections with fellow artists, while centering and uplifting BIPOC and LGBTQ+ creatives

• Learn from award-winning artists, legal experts, and cultural leaders

• Gain practical tools to fund, protect, and sustain your creative career

• Immerse yourself in bold art, performance, and community-driven innovation

• Join a space that centers equity, joy, and transformative collaboration

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​Reserve your spot today!!!​​