Island Gallery and Studios Presents September 2025 Featured Artist: Marie Garafano
“To find the sublime in the ordinary” – A Visual Exploration by Marie Garafano
Island Gallery and Studios is proud to announce Marie Garafano as our Featured Artist for September. With a career rooted in creativity and observation, Garafano brings a thoughtful and refined body of work that embodies the theme inspired by philosopher Cornel West: “To find the sublime in the ordinary.”
Originally from Philadelphia, Marie Garafano moved to Florida in 2008 after an accomplished 30-year career as a freelance illustrator and graphic designer, creating work for corporate clients and publishers. Among her notable projects is the illustrated chapter book “Ginger Goes on a Diet” (Houghton Mifflin), a touching story of a foster child and her cat.
Today, Marie devotes herself to painting in watercolor and oil, both in the studio and En Plein Aire. She is an active member of several plein air communities including The Artists Guild Gallery of Anna Maria Island, The Light Chasers, Plein Aire Artists of Sarasota, and Plein Air Artists of the Suncoast. Her work captures the quiet beauty of everyday life and reflects her deep connection to Florida’s landscapes and light.
Marie Garafano’s stunning artwork is now on display at Island Gallery and Studios—stop in and discover it for yourself, right in the heart of downtown Bradenton.
Don’t Miss These Ongoing and Upcoming Gallery Events!
Paint with The Pros! Our professional artists are now offering afternoon art classes. Don’t miss out! Call or check our website for the details.
Free Art Demos! Starting in October, Every Second Saturday of the Month from 10:30 am-12:00 pm
Great Opportunity! Critique Corner! Attention All Artists! Every Last Saturday of the month from 10:30 am-12:00 pm we offer FREE interactive discussions on what makes a good piece of art. All are welcome!
Visit Us:
Island Gallery and Studios
456 Old Main Street, Downtown Bradenton, FL
Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM
Street parking and free public ramp parking available.
Support The Arts: As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and our artist owned and operated gallery relies on the generosity of friends in our community to support the mission of providing a more enjoyable and cultural atmosphere for visitors to the downtown area. Your gift helps sustain the gallery operations, educational programs and our free Saturday morning demonstrations that encourage art appreciation for everyone.