Florida Watercolor 2013 is better and bigger than ever and we hope you will join us. Our Watercolor Society is one of the largest in the nation with approximately 1100 members. Why is this an opportunity for you? Consider that we are able to bring to you the best nationally known jurors and instructors for our annual convention and workshops. Our annual conventions provide a forum and learning experience for our members and an opportunity to meet and talk to our juror, demonstrators, workshop instructors and members of FWS. Our trade show offers the opportunity to see and buy the latest art materials at discounted prices from our vendors. Plus, each fall, we hold a juried digital online show with cash awards for our non-signature members. We also work with a network of other watercolor organizations around the state of Florida to ensure that we know them and they know us. Members receive an annual exhibition catalog of all the selected paintings and awards. You can improve your art, expand your circle of artist friends and have fun being a member of FWS!
2013 CONVENTION
This year's convention site will be the newly renovated Hyatt Regency Sarasotta. With a stunning bayside location, and modern amenities, restaurants, fitness center, and pool with waterfalls, this hotel boasts its own marina, not to mention proximity to plenty of shopping. Our exhibition will be held at the Art Center Sarasota, conveniently located within walking distance, just across the spacious hotel parking lot.
The fun starts on Monday, September 16th when our Juror, Linda Baker, and E. M. "Mike" Bailey, each conduct a 4-day workshop. The Convention Weekend then kicks off on Thursday with a presentation by Linda that evening. Friday and Saturday bring more demonstrations, including one by Mike Bailey, along with critiques, lectures and the always popular tradeshow in the biggest space yet! On Friday evening we will open our 44th Annual Exhibit with a Reception at the Art Center Sarasota. We will start the day on Saturday with a Paint‐A‐Round, and end by honoring our artists at the Awards Gala featuring a special presentation. And, we will wind up our week on Sunday morning with our Annual Members Meeting.
HISTORY
The story of Florida Watercolor Society is one of growth, education and sharing. The Florida Watercolor Society held its first, second and third annual exhibitions from 1938 to 1941 under the presidency of Harold Hilton. It is thought that the current Florida Watercolor Society evolved from this early beginning. Then, in 1972, with 26 members, Guy Beattie, director of the Maitland Art Center, invited Florida watercolorists to contribute their work to an exhibition. The mission of FWS is to contribute to the atmosphere of our state and to educate and assist anyone interested in the watercolor medium.
HOW TO JOIN
You may join on line! Or mail your check and the completed application to our Membership Chairman. If you join at Convention, you receive membership for the next three months and are paid up through the next year. A Florida resident must pay the annual dues by the membership deadline to be eligible for the Fall exhibition. A person who does not fulfill the residency requirement may become a "Nonresident Associate Member" with all the membership privileges except that he/she may not enter an FWS juried exhibition or become an officer in FWS. Annual renewal notices will be mailed to you after the new year. Failure to renew prior to May 1 of each year will result in losing your status and all privileges. You may regain your status by paying back dues. Please note that your contact information may be shared with other art organizations and art related entities.
Complete the form below and mail with your check payable to the Florida Watercolor Society in the amount of $40.00.
