The arts have kept the world entertained and inspired in this time of great uncertainty. During stay-at-home mandates we heard neighbors joining their voices from balconies, watched videos of frontline workers choreographing dances, explored the great museums virtually and even indulged in the release of the highly anticipated screen version of Hamilton.

While the 2020/2021 Southwest Florida arts and cultural season isn’t exactly business as usual, it hasn’t deterred artists and cultural entities from transforming lives and improving the community through the arts. The Alliance for the Arts, now in its 45th season, is on the front lines in this endeavor.

To support the creativity of the Southwest Florida community, the Alliance shifted to virtual classes, theater and events; a drive-through GreenMarket; and limited onsite programming. Today you can drive through the Alliance for the Arts campus on McGregor Blvd. and be inspired by outdoor exhibits and public art, including the newest addition, the “Caloosahatchee Water Wall” by artist Michael Singer. You can also experience the power of creativity while running errands with the Art Lives Here outdoor gallery, which transforms billboard space into public art. 

Now more than ever, working with, listening to and celebrating each other as a community is vital. People need the arts to entertain, connect with and excite each other and will need the power of creativity to help reimagine the world for the future. While the Alliance staff is not certain what the fall brings, they look forward to continuing to create and to inspire all of Southwest Florida. We’re all in this together, even if we are six feet apart.

For more information, call 239-939-2787, visit ArtInLee.org, or find the Alliance on Facebook (Facebook.com/ArtInLee.org), Instagram (@AlliancefortheArts) or follow on Twitter (@ArtInLee).