Big Arts (Barrier Island Group For The Arts)

Mission: To provide quality cultural and educational experiences to the residents and visitors of Sanibel, Captiva and neighboring communities. Known around Sanibel and Captiva and its surrounding communities as a home for all the arts, BIG ARTS is dedicated to providing quality arts enrichment experiences to island residents and visitors. Established in 1979 as the Barrier Island Group for the Arts, the organization emerged from the creative spirit of island artists who recognized a need and purpose for a cultural center dedicated to the promotion and celebration of the arts in the area. Original members met informally in homes on Sanibel and Captiva to discuss and create art until a cottage was generously donated in 1987 as an official meeting place. Today, BIG ARTS enjoys its Dunlop Road location, complete with its administrative offices; spacious Schein Performance Hall for performance events, lectures and films; Gainer Veranda for receptions; and Founders and Phillips Galleries exhibits throughout the year. Classrooms and studio space are used for workshops and children’s arts camp. Located on Periwinkle Way, adjacent to the organization’s marketing offices, BIG ARTS Herb Strauss Theater is a destination for theater-lovers in southwest Florida and mounts several critically acclaimed extended-run productions, along with limited engagements, throughout the season. The Herb Strauss Theater is also home to the local community theater program, BIG ARTS Community Players. A non-profit 501(c)3 organization, programming at BIG ARTS is made possible through the generous support of more than 300 dedicated volunteers and donors as well as individual and corporate sponsors. Discover more about by contacting us in person at BIG ARTS, 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, FL, online at www.BIGARTS.org, by phone (239) 395-0900 or via e-mail info@BIGARTS.org. A home for all the arts, BIG ARTS offers something for everyone!