can experience
EXPERIENCE BIG ARTS:
CREATED BY & FOR OUR COMMUNITY
Welcome to BIG ARTS 45th season, brimming with fabulous films, exciting fine arts exhibits, world class performers, stimulating workshops and engaging, thought-provoking lectures. Another wonderful year with a wealth of offerings for everyone.
It is remarkable to think that BIG ARTS was once a small band of artists who dreamed of a place to gather to support one another’s creativity. There was no place called BIG ARTS – it was simply a group of people who called themselves the Barrier Island Group for the Arts. They shared a deep love of the natural beauty of their island home, and a yearning to support each other’s artistic journey and share their work. Their ranks – audiences and artists alike – grew exponentially. They incorporated as a nonprofit in 1979 through the efforts of artists that included Ikki Masumoto, Polly Matsumoto, Pete Smith and the former mayor of Sanibel, Mike Klein. But for nearly ten years, the BIG ARTS family continued to be a “traveling tribe.” They met wherever they could find space: the library, the community house, the park, and in each other’s homes.
In 1987 their “home” arrived from the beach on a flatbed truck – a small, donated cottage. Today’s stunning, state-of-the-art BIG ARTS building sits on the same land as its first home. And while BIG ARTS footprint has expanded through time, its abiding mission remains the same and its story has always been written by the artists, visitors, patrons, volunteers and donors who share the same yearning as BIG ARTS founders – the desire to share in the creative experience and the understanding of the powerful role the arts play in the quality of our lives and our community.
BIG ARTS story is interwoven into the history of the islands. As we celebrate Sanibel’s 50th Anniversary, we remember the courage, tenacity, vision, and fortitude that inspired the creation of BIG ARTS and of many of our island’s remarkable organizations.
Come and experience all that BIG ARTS has to offer! We look forward to seeing you, and we extend our heartfelt appreciation to all the patrons, donors and volunteers who continue to write BIG ARTS story. We are deeply grateful for your support.
2025 PERFORMING ARTS
Experience some of the most gifted artists performing in the world today. Sit back and relax in the stunning Christensen Performance Hall and let the power of these extraordinary acts fill your heart and renew your spirit.
ALL PERFORMANCES BEGIN AT 7:30 P.M.
COMPLIMENTARY VALET PARKING
CHRIS MANN SINGS THE TONY BENNETT
SONGBOOK: FROM GERSHWIN TO GAGA!
SATURDAY, JANUARY 11
Join Chris Mann for a phenomenal evening celebrating the best of jazz, pop, parody and Broadway in Bennett: From Gershwin to Gaga. Known for his show-stopping performances on The Voice, as well as his leading role in Phantom of the Opera’s 25th Anniversary Tour, Mann has been hailed as “one of the best male vocalists in the world.” This is a “not to be missed” evening of entertainment.
"My new favorite male voice on the planet!" - Today Show, Kathie Lee & Hoda
ALWAYS LORETTA
THE ULTIMATE LORETTA LYNN TRIBUTE
Starring Emily Portman & the Coalminers Band
SATURDAY, JANUARY 18
Loretta Lynn’s close friend, Emily Portman, has joined forces with the original members of Loretta’s band, The Coalminers, to create a remarkable show that honors the memory and music of this beloved performer. Emily Portman’s stunning and authentic portrayal of Loretta’s greatest hits, together with the intimate stories
of Loretta’s life as seen through the eyes of those who knew her best, creates a memorable, heartwarming celebration of Loretta Lynn’s life and legacy. Emily will perform some of the best country songs ever written, such as “Coalminer’s Daughter,” “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man),” and “You’re Lookin’ at Country.”
“You don't have to know country music to love Loretta Lynn.”
- Michael Kantor, executive producer of PBS' American Masters
YOUNG CONCERT ARTISTS (YCA) ON TOUR
TUESDAY, JANUARY 21
YCA on Tour is a dynamic chamber ensemble made up of the classical stars of the future, who combine world-class talent with creative vision to bring new reach and relevance to the art form. For more than 60 years, YCA has invested in extraordinarily gifted young musicians by providing them with the tools and opportunities to take their careers to the highest level. This season’s tour offers a special program of chamber music performed by impressive, highly-trained musicians.
"Young Concert Artists has acquired a special status in the musical world, and deservedly so ... It is extremely doubtful that any organization anywhere could have matched the YCA record for spotting great talent and helping it along." - The New York Times
Graciously Sponsored by BIG ARTS Classical Series Circle Nancy Dehmlow, David Huggin & Ken Nees
DAVINA AND THE VAGABONDS
FRIDAY, JANUARY 24
Blues, jazz, R&B, soul and gospel are melded together with the exciting Davina and the Vagabonds band. A gifted, classically-trained pianist and blockbuster singer, Davina Sowers brings to the stage a performance that will have you on your feet. With influences ranging from Fats Domino and Aretha Franklin to the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Davina and the Vagabonds are quickly rising to fame and garnering Billboard hits. Davina’s commanding stage presence, backed by topflight musicians, creates a rich, full sound. She refers to her music as “my first and eternal love.” Her audiences feel that love in every song she performs.
“Davina Sowers creates her own Americana mishmash — a little Amy Winhouse-worthy neo-soul here, a little Great American Songbook-influenced songcraft there.” - Rolling Stone Magazine
Graciously Sponsored by Jeffrey and Rene Savarise &
2025 PERFORMING ARTS
ALL PERFORMANCES BEGIN AT 7:30 P.M.
COMPLIMENTARY VALET PARKING
THE BARRICADE BOYS
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31
This show will lift your spirits and make your heart sing! Dubbed the UK’s most exciting theatrical vocal group, The Barricade Boys deliver powerhouse vocals, slick dance routines, and a diverse array of music that spans every era, right up to the present day. From the emotion of Les Misérables to the
doo-wop harmonies of Jersey Boys and the rhythmic energy of West Side Story, this show delivers!
“Dashing good looks, incredible voices and outstanding musical magic!” – Elaine Paige, BBC Radio 2
Graciously Sponsored by Bob and Kathy Wiesemann & Charles and Gail Sheetz
DAVID SHIFRIN & MIRÓ QUARTET
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6
Join clarinetist supreme David Shifrin with the dynamic Miró Quartet for a celebration of classical and jazz clarinet. The program includes Shulman’s Rendezvous with Benny, that pays tribute to the chamber music contributions of the “King of Swing,” Benny Goodman. As one of America’s most celebrated and dedicated string quartets, the Miró Quartet has performed on the world’s most prestigious concert stages, earning accolades from critics and audiences alike. For over 25 years, the Quartet has been finding new ways to connect with audiences, while preserving the tradition of chamber music.
"David Shifrin joined the Miró and he seemed to have turned into a fifth Miró, with plenty of intricate give-and-take between the instruments ... alighting perfectly on a delightfully surprising, yet satisfying, harmony." - ArtsWatch
Graciously Sponsored by BIG ARTS Classical Series Circle Nancy Dehmlow, David Huggin & Ken Nees
AUTHENTIC UNLIMITED
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8
Since its debut in 2021, Authentic Unlimited has been taking the bluegrass music industry by storm. The band’s energetic and varied approach to bluegrass has earned them worldwide accolades and awards, including Vocal Group of the Year at the 2023 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards. Their exceptional musical ability and flawless harmonies will have you tapping your toes at this delightful performance!
"This award-winning quintet is one of the hottest new bands on the bluegrass circuit. The guys knock it out of the ballpark with their variety of songs."
- Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine
JUPITER AND JASPER QUARTETS
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13
Two award-winning quartets bring their eloquent artistry and flawless interpretation to create a program of classic and contemporary music that is expressively confident and beautifully composed, including Mendelssohn’s famous string octet. The quartets have performed across the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and the Americas in some of the world’s finest halls, including New York City’s Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center.
“Every so often a performance leaves us in awe of its loving sophistication, its attention to the finest details of balance and expression.”
– Dallas Morning News
Graciously Sponsored by Barb and Tom Dunham
Graciously Sponsored by BIG ARTS Classical Series Circle Nancy Dehmlow, David Huggin & Ken Nees
2025 PERFORMING ARTS
ALL PERFORMANCES BEGIN AT 7:30 P.M. COMPLIMENTARY VALET PARKING
PHAT CAT SWINGER
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14
Treat your valentine to a special evening with this acclaimed 11-piece American pop band, whose unique blend of swing, jazz and rock will fill you with joy that will stay with you long after the curtain falls. Style, class and charisma characterize this high-powered group. Led by founder Marco Palos and vocalist Mark Kopitzke, Phat Cat Swinger brings energy and passion to every performance with reimagined musical arrangements from timeless eras, ranging from Sinatra to Bublé and everything in between. Phat Cat Swinger is an experience you will not soon forget!
"An authentic, one-of-a-kind experience – one that blows the roof off the place!" - BroadwayWorld.com
ILYA YAKUSHEV
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20
Among numerous awards, Ilya is the past winner of the World Piano Competition. He earned his first competition award at the age of 12 and, today, he continues to astonish and captivate audiences at major venues on three continents. For this special evening, Mr. Yakushev will perform George Gershwin's captivating masterpiece Rhapsody in Blue and an innovative multi-media version of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition – a feast for the eyes and ears.
“Mr. Yakushev can do just about anything he wants.” - The New York Times
Graciously Sponsored by BIG ARTS Classical Series Circle Nancy Dehmlow, David Huggin & Ken Nees
Graciously Sponsored by Tom and Linda Uhler
AILEY II
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26
Ailey II is universally celebrated for merging the spirit and energy of the country’s best young dancers with the passion and creativity of today’s finest emerging choreographers. For this unforgettable experience, the gifted Ailey II dance company will perform the enduring classic Revelations, which has been called “...one of the most sublime dances ever choreographed...” (The Boston Herald). It is a poignant tribute to the cultural heritage of African Americans, expressed through spirituals, song-sermons, gospel songs and holy blues.
"...powerful and eloquent dancing characterize Ailey’s timeless tribute to humanity, faith and survival." - Clive Barnes, New York Post
Graciously Sponsored by Susen H. and James C. Berg & Doug and Sherry Gentry
FANDANGO!
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27
The multi-award-winning musical ensemble, Fandango! is a spicy mix of Latin, Spanish, Sephardic, Balkan and classical sounds. Spanish flutist Eugenia Moliner and Bosnian guitarist Denis Azabagic are a husband-and-wife team acclaimed worldwide as the Cavatina Duo; French violinist Blaise Magnière and Taiwanese cellist Cheng-Hou Lee are both members of the Avalon Quartet, described by the Chicago Tribune as “an ensemble that invites you - ears, mind, and spirit - into its music.” These four virtuosi have appeared on the most prestigious stages and received international rave reviews.
"A refreshing ensemble with authentic repertoire choices, exciting arrangements, and newly commissioned works . . . gorgeous sounds . . . brilliant execution . . . a captivating performance." - South Florida Classical Review
Graciously Sponsored by BIG ARTS Classical Series Circle
Nancy Dehmlow, David Huggin & Ken Nees
2025 PERFORMING ARTS
ALL PERFORMANCES BEGIN AT 7:30 P.M.
COMPLIMENTARY VALET PARKING
LATE NITE CATECHISM:
THE HOLY GHOST AND OTHER TERRIFYING TALES
SATURDAY, MARCH 1
The “Sister” is back, and BIG ARTS audiences are in store for another hysterical catechism lesson –this time, one filled with spooky fun! This session is about the church's take on Halloween tales of ghosts and goblins. In this hilarious one-woman show, "Sister" treats the audience as members of her adult catechism class. A long-running crowd favorite, her sidesplitting lessons will resonate with Catholics and non-Catholics alike!
"An uproarious piece of interactive theater ... inspired, well-written and hilarious! Late Nite Catechism speaks to an audience much broader than the membership of any one church.” - New York Times
GEORGE
MICHAEL REBORN
SATURDAY, MARCH 8
This must-see show is an incredible tribute to George Michael and the music of WHAM!
Robert Barko is a spot-on look-alike and soundalike to the late, great legendary artist and brings energy and passion to his performances. Crowds are on their feet at every concert, dancing to hits, such as “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go,” “Last Christmas” and many more. This show will have you cheering for an encore!
"A tribute concert you don't want to miss!"
- KTVX -TV, Salt Lake City, Utah
Graciously Sponsored by Brian & Kim Rist on behalf of the Rist Family Foundation
JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER
PRESENTS: NEW ORLEANS SONGBOOK
FRIDAY, MARCH 14
Join the masterful musicians of the acclaimed Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents as they bring the soul of New Orleans and the sizzling spirit of Mardi Gras to beautiful BIG ARTS Christensen Performance Hall. Led by pianist Luther S. Allison and vocalists Quiana Lynell and Milton Suggs, this amazing evening celebrates the composers and inspired songs of the Crescent City. From the iconic Jelly Roll Morton and the beloved Louis Armstrong to the innovative Ellis Marsalis, New Orleans Songbook immerses audiences in the captivating and timeless spirit of this historic epicenter of jazz.
"Jazz at Lincoln Center orchestra delivers. And inspires. This is a must-see performance!" - AroundTheTownChicago.com
Graciously Sponsored by Michael and Marilee Wood
PEKING ACROBATS
THURSDAY, MARCH 20
For almost 40 years, The Peking Acrobats have amazed audiences worldwide, fusing astonishing athletics with modern special effects to create a kaleidoscopic marvel for all ages. Often described as "Cirque du Soleil meets the Far East," these world-class gymnasts, jugglers, cyclists and tumblers provide a gravity-defying spectacle with amazing displays of contortion, flexibility and control. This is the perfect event for the whole family to attend!
“The Peking Acrobats are pushing the envelope of human possibility, combining agility and grace in remarkable feats of pure artistry.”
- New York Post
Graciously Sponsored by Gustav and Vibeke Christensen
2025 PERFORMING ARTS
ALL PERFORMANCES BEGIN AT 7:30 P.M. COMPLIMENTARY VALET PARKING
THE PLAYERS: FORMERLY OF CHICAGO AND EARTH, WIND & FIRE
SATURDAY, MARCH 29
Spend an evening savoring the iconic music of Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire, performed by Grammy-winning former members of these legendary bands. Hits like “If You Leave Me Now,” “You’re the Inspiration,” and “Hard to Say I’m Sorry” from Chicago, are coupled with chart-toppers, such as “Shining Star,” “Boogie Wonderland,” and “September” from Earth, Wind & Fire. This memorable concert will transport you back in time!
This was no run of the mill show! IT WAS THE REAL PLAYERS who created this music ... and they played ALL THE HITS! A great concert experience! - United We Rock
PLATINUM CLUB
PRESENTING SPONSOR
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
BIG ARTS ANNUAL BENEFIT
SATURDAY, MARCH 22, 2025
The show features top industry musicians and singers, exquisitely designed costumes and dazzling choreography, as it presents the music of Motown with the intensity of the original recorded performances. Enjoy lavish pre-show buffets and open bars, and post-show desserts and dancing in the Malone Family Sculpture Garden.
Platinum Star Sponsors Gustav and Vibeke Christensen & Jim and Gaye Pigott
BIG ARTS 2025 FORUM
Stimulating lectures and engaging conversations with some of the most important thought leaders of our time.
ALL SESSIONS BEGIN AT 7:30 P.M.
AKHIL REED AMAR |
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8
The Words That Made Us - Should the Constitution Be Amended for the 21st Century?
The United States has entered a time when constitutional interpretations seem to be changing. Factors, such as the precedents set by early presidents and Congresses, common practices of modern American citizens, venerable judicial decisions, and sources of inspiration and guidance - including the Federalist Papers - are questioned. Akhil Reed Amar is a Professor of Law and Political Science at Yale University,where he teaches constitutional law. He
ranks among the most respected legal scholars in America, having been cited by Supreme Court justices in more than four dozen cases. Tops among all active scholars, he regularly testifies before Congress, at the invitation of both parties. In surveys of judicial citations and/or scholarly citations, he invariably ranks among America’s five most-cited legal scholars.
DR. MICHAEL S. ROTH |
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15
What’s The Future for American Colleges?
Dr. Michael S. Roth became the President of Connecticut’s Wesleyan University in 2007. In subsequent years, he has been at the forefront of those examining the purpose of and means by which higher education functions. In the wake of the Supreme Court’s affirmative action decision in July 2023,he announced a suite of new recruiting efforts aimed at enhancing diverse campus interactions, including an end to admissions preference for legacy applicants. Roth has published three books examining university
education, the most recent being “The Student, A Short History” (2023). His “Beyond the University: Why Liberal Education Matters,” was recognized by the Association of American Colleges and Universities as the book best illuminating the goals and practices of a contemporary liberal education. Roth’s 2019 book, “Safe Enough Spaces: A Pragmatist’s Approach to Inclusion, Free Speech, and Political Correctness,” addresses some of the most contentious issues in American higher education, including affirmative action, safe spaces, and questions of free speech.
BILL BARR | SUNDAY, JANUARY 19
The Rule of Law Today
William Pelham Barr was confirmed as the 85th attorney general of the United States by the US Senate on February 14, 2019. On that day, Bill Barr joined John Crittenden (1841 and 1850–53) as one of only two people in US history to serve twice as attorney general. Currently, Barr is a distinguished fellow at Hudson Institute, where he can speak firsthand about the politization of our legal system. His work involves policy areas including violent crime, transnational criminal/drug organizations, and international
terrorism. Over recent decades, when Americans are confronted by questions where politics and the law collide, Bill Barr can be found. Crime rates, the international reach of big tech, Mexican drug cartels, decriminalization of cannabis, and artificial intelligence have all drawn recent comment. Bill Barr brings a perspective our audience will want to hear.
RIKKI KLIEMAN | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22
Law and the Media
Rikki Klieman is currently the Legal Analyst for CBS News, after serving as a television anchor, notably covering the OJ Simpson trial. She specialized in criminal law, appellate practice, civil litigation, and is a best-selling author and film actress. Klieman has earned a sterling reputation as one of the most celebrated lawyers and legal authorities in the nation and named one of the top female trial attorneys in the nation by Time Magazine. The legal system in America today is under fire from all directions. What are the legal
lessons to be learned from the Simpson and Trump trials? Are there two tiers of justice? How does defense counsel control a difficult high-profile defendant, sentencing considerations, gag orders, assorted other pre-trial, trial and post-trial matters? How are high-profile trials reported and consumed by the public? Are we getting fair and impartial reporting? Rikki Klieman is well-equipped to share her experience, fascinating insights and ideas on these and other legal challenges during this unique and troubling time in our country’s history.
BIG ARTS 2025 FORUM Graciously Sponsored by
Sue Pick & Patricia Thurber
BIG ARTS 2025 FORUM
ALL SESSIONS BEGIN AT 7:30 P.M.
DR. NATAN SACHS | WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5
Israel: Can There Ever Be a Real “Day After?”
Since October 7, 2023, the Israelis, Palestinians, Americans, and other Middle Eastern nations have struggled using threats, weaponry, and words to determine appropriate and sustainable solutions, wherein nations that express the goal of destroying components of one another can exist side-by-side. Dr. Natan Sachs is the Director at the Center for Middle East Policy and a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. Dr. Sachs is widely respected as an honest broker in assessing the players in the region and
recommending policies that promote more peaceful and just relationships. Dr. Sachs is regularly asked to present testimony to Congressional committees, and offers expert commentary to The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Financial Times. He regularly appears on CNN, Fox News, the BBC, and Bloomberg, among others. Sachs envisions the elements of the American plan for aid to Gaza, coupled with a concerted effort to work with secular Palestinian actors to reconstruct the Gaza Strip and rebuild the people’s trust.
DR. JOHN DELLA VOLPE | WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12
What Your Gen Z Grand Kids Think About American Politics and The World They Want to Create
Dr. John Della Volpe, Director of Polling, at the Harvard Kennedy School of Politics was labeled by Time Magazine as “the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) political researcher when it comes to understanding youth in politics.” His recent book, “The Fight: How Gen Z Is Channeling Their Fear & Passion to Save America,” explores the events that shaped Generation Z (those born from the late 1990s to early 2000s), such as September 11, the war on terror,
Hurricane Katrina, the 2008 financial crisis, the opioid epidemic, mass school shootings, climate change, and racial injustice. The political whiplash between the 2008 election of Barack Obama, followed by Donald Trump’s presidency from 2017 to 2021, has shaped the thinking of Gen Z. Rather than buckle under the tremendous weight of a myriad of critical challenges, they have organized around the issues that America has left unsolved, from gun control to racial and environmental justice and economic inequality. They have become more politically engaged than their elders and are showing a unique willingness to disrupt the status quo.
DR. JEFFREY R. HENIG | WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19
The
Evolving
Politics of Charters and School Choice
Dr. Jeffrey R. Henig is Professor of Political Science and Education at Columbia University Teacher’s College and the nation’s preeminent expert in the current evolution of public education. In modern America, charter schools, operated by a variety of corporate interests, have been thrust onto the public as a surefire means to improve the learning outcomes for our children. The American reality is that both public and religious charter schools very often underachieve, are prosecuted for fraud, and routinely
DR. PETER SINGER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5
Artificial Intelligence: Reality Catching Up to Science Fiction
The emergence of public artificial intelligence products has increased focus on how they may affect our society and lives. At recent hearings, Congress was introduced to the progress and dangers of these rapidly advancing technologies. Dr. Peter Singer examines the scope of AI development, the benefits it offers, and the ethical challenges to human society. Dr. Singer is a strategist at New America, a Professor of Practice at Arizona State University, and founding and managing partner at Useful disappear. Henig’s work on urban and racial politics, privatization, and school reform has appeared in Education Week, The Chronicle of Higher Education, The Boston Globe, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, and The New York Times. As co-author of "Outside Money in School Board Elections: The Nationalization of Education Politics," Dr. Henig provides evidence of how school leadership and classroom teachers are demonized to divide communities for political purpose.
Fiction, LLC. He is described in The Wall Street Journal as "the premier futurist in the national security environment." The Smithsonian named him one of the nation's 100 leading innovators; Defense News called him “one of the 100 most influential people on defense issues," and Foreign Policy named him to their “Top 100 Global Thinkers” list. Dr. Singer is an official "Mad Scientist" for the U.S. Army's Training and Doctrine Command. His non-fiction books include "Corporate Warriors: The Rise of the Privatized Military Industry," "Children at War, Wired for War: The Robotics Revolution and Conflict in the 21st Century," "Cybersecurity and Cyberwar: What Everyone Needs to Know," and "LikeWar: The Weaponization of Social Media," which explores how social media has changed war and politics. This presentation will provide a realistic look at how artificial intelligence will affect the future of the world.
2025 TALKING POINTS
Thought-provoking presentations on a diverse range of subjects, followed by an interactive Q&A dialogue with the audience.
ALL SESSIONS BEGIN AT 4:00 P.M.
CHIP WALTER & KEITH MCWALTER
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12
The Longevity Quest in Fact and Fiction
We live in an age obsessed with the prospect of everlonger lifespans. The Wall Street Journal reports that the anti-aging industry sells longevity as “the ultimate luxury good.” Researchers are delving into the mysteries of stem cells and the human genome, discovering what causes physical aging and how to keep those processes from happening. Billionaires are betting their fortunes on laboratory advances to prove aging unnecessary and death a disease that can be cured.
Can it be done? And are we prepared for the social, familial, and personal consequences of living significantly longer lives? This session of Talking Points will explore the quest for longevity and its often-unexamined consequences from the dual perspectives of in-depth factual reporting and science-grounded speculative fiction.
Chip Walter is an author, veteran journalist, National Geographic Explorer, filmmaker, and former CNN bureau chief whose background spans both science and entertainment. His recent nonfiction book, Immortality, Inc.: Renegade Science, Silicon Valley Billions, and the Quest to Live Forever portrait of the scientific and entrepreneurial leaders of the longevity quest and how they’re seeking to change the future of the human race. He has served as an adjunct professor to three departments at Carnegie Mellon University.
Keith McWalter is a writer, lawyer, and seasonal Sanibel resident whose latest novel, Lifers, follows an intergenerational cast of characters as they grapple with the personal, social, and political consequences of a sudden, engineered explosion in human longevity. Harvard University cosmologist and bestselling author Avi Loeb calls it “a stimulating, timely exposition” and “a fascinating read.” Keith’s essays have appeared in The New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle, and The Mercury News. He is a graduate of Columbia Law School and has a BA in English Literature from Denison University.
CHIP WALTER
KEITH MCWALTER
RAY
ARSENAULT | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19
Life & Legacy of John Lewis
Professor Raymond Arsenault will illuminate the life and legacy of John Robert Lewis (1940-2020), the 17-term congressman from Atlanta, Georgia, who first rose to fame as a courageous civil rights activist during the early 1960s. Professor Arsenault’s recent biography of Lewis, In Search of the Beloved Community, is as relevant today as it was
during the Congressman’s lifetime. John Lewis has long been one of the most admired members of the United States Congress, a revered figure widely considered to be an incorruptible moral leader, and a steadfast symbol of integrity and courage. His stature as “the conscience of Congress” represents only the capstone of a sixty-year career as a civil rights and social justice activist.
Ray Arsenault is a Professor of Southern History emeritus at the University of South Florida, St. Petersburg. Born on Cape Cod and raised in Massachusetts, Virginia, Maryland, and Florida, he was educated at Princeton and Brandeis Universities. He moved to St. Petersburg, Florida in 1980 to teach at University of South Florida after four years at the University of Minnesota. He is a specialist in the history of civil rights, the American South and environmentalism. He has authored numerous books and articles, including The End of the Long Hot Summer: The Air Conditioner and Southern Culture (1984), St. Petersburg and the Florida Dream, 1888-1950 Paradise Lost? An Environmental History of Florida (2005).
ANNABELLE TOMETICH
| WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26
The Mango Tree: A Memoir of Fruit, Florida and Felony
Annabelle Tometich went from medical school flunky to line cook to journalist to author. She spent 18 years as a food writer, editor, and restaurant critic for The News-Press in her hometown of Fort Myers, Florida. Her first book, The Mango Tree: A Memoir of Fruit, Florida, and Felony (April 2024, Little Brown), was called “sweet, sharp” by The New York Times
Tometich’s writing has appeared in The Washington Post, USA Today, Catapult Books, the Tampa Bay Times, and many more outlets. She has won more than a dozen awards for her stories, including first place for Food & Travel Writing at the 2022 Sunshine State Awards. She (still) lives in Fort Myers with her husband, two children, and her ever-fiery Filipina mother.
The Mango Tree is a poignant and entertaining story of growing up as a mixed-race Filipina “nobody” in suburban Florida with her erratic father and fiery mother.
2025 TALKING POINTS
ALL SESSIONS BEGIN AT 4:00 P.M.
MICKELA MALLOZZI | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2
Inspirational Travel in Bare Feet
Mickela Mallozzi is the four-time Emmy® Award-winning Host and Executive Producer of “Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi,” a travel series highlighting the diversity of dance, which airs on PBS stations nationwide and on Amazon Prime globally. A professional dancer and trained musician, Mickela decided to start a journey around the world, taking her camera with her to follow dance in the lives of everyday people wherever she went. From rediscovering her family’s heritage in Southern Italy to dancing tango on the main stage in Buenos Aires, the series covers Mickela’s adventures as she experiences the world, one dance at a time. She has been featured in The New York Times, Oprah Magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, Dance Magazine, Forbes, The Washington Post, among others, and she has performed on various television shows including “Sesame Street.”
Mickela created the “Bare Feet” project in 2010 as an extension to what she had been doing during her trips abroad and locally. Her fascination with folk dance and music inspired her to always seek out local performances and celebrations, so she could immerse herself in the dance culture. Inspiration from her own experiences led Mickela to create the Bare Feet Blog, documenting her dance adventures around the world. The Bare Feet Blog evolved into the Emmy® Award-winning TV series on public television nationwide that combines her two passions in life: travel & dance.
JANE WOOLDRIDGE | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9
Art Basel & the Art Scene
Jane Wooldridge is an award-winning travel, business, and arts multimedia journalist with a notable career at the Miami Herald. Since 2001, she has spearheaded coverage of Art Basel Miami Beach and chronicled the city’s evolution into a cultural hub. She has reported on museums and visual art communities around the globe.
In 2021, Jane was named to the newly created role of Senior Director for Journalism Sustainability and Partnerships, collaborating with civic, arts, and business organizations to support public service journalism. Previously, as the Miami Herald’s Business Editor, she oversaw award-winning business and arts coverage. Jane has also served as the Travel Editor, winning top honors and traveling to over 100 countries. A past president of the Society of American Travel Writers and recipient of the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalist of the Year Award, she is a sought-after speaker and will publish her travel book, Luxury in the Wild, in fall 2025.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
For over 45 years, BIG ARTS has been a cornerstone of the Sanibel and Captiva communities, continuously enhancing our contributions each year. Ticket and registration fees alone are simply not enough to sustain a world-class arts center like BIG ARTS. We rely on generous donors like you to bridge the gap.
WAYS TO GIVE
ANNUAL GIFT
Loyal annual donors are the mainstay of BIG ARTS, providing a reliable source of yearly income that helps us balance our budget every year.
SPONSORSHIPS
Demonstrate support for BIG ARTS by having your name, your company’s name, or the name of a loved one associated with any of the BIG ARTS programs or events.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Join us for the BIG ARTS Annual Benefit, one of the island’s most fun and exciting nights. The Annual Benefit includes lavish buffets, open bars, post-show desserts, dancing, and drinks. There are various levels of support you can choose to be part of the best Sanibel & Captiva party of the year on Saturday, March 22, 2025.
PLANNED GIVING
Create a legacy that will endure for generations, ensuring your continued support and a special place in our hearts.
ADDITIONAL GIVING OPTIONS
MATCHING GIFTS
Maximize your donation with matching gifts. Check with your current or former employer to learn whether they have a matching gifts program that can double the impact of your support.
MEMORIAL OR TRIBUTE GIFTS
Honor or remember a special person in your life with an honorarium or memorial gift.
STOCKS AND DONOR ADVISED FUNDS
Support for BIG ARTS may provide tax advantages! By donating stock, you may avoid capital gains taxes and receive a charitable deduction for the stock’s full market value at the time of the gift. A Donor Advised Fund (DAF) is another convenient and tax-efficient way to give. Recommend a grant from your DAF to sustain our programs. Our EIN is linked to Barrier Island Group for the Arts, Inc.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR MICHELLE SCHWEBER AT (239) 472-9700, EXT. 308
COMMUNITY 2024-2025
BIG ARTS ANNUAL HOLIDAY MAGIC
Put BIG ARTS on your holiday calendar! Join us for four festive events: a joyful performance from the BIG ARTS Community Chorus and Concert Band, a fun family film, a professional production of The Nutcracker, and our free open house!
BIG ARTS COMMUNITY CHORUS & BIG ARTS
CONCERT BAND - HOLIDAY PERFORMANCE
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 7:00 P.M.
Immerse yourself in festive, joyful melodies of the season, as the BIG ARTS Community Chorus and BIG ARTS Concert Band come together to deliver a performance of beloved holiday classics and cherished tunes. Enjoy the beautiful voices and creative arrangements of talented members from our local community, all set in the delightful ambiance of Christensen Performance Hall.
GULFSHORE BALLET’S THE NUTCRACKER
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 6:30 P.M.
Gulfshore Ballet proudly presents Tchaikovsky’s timeless Holiday Classic The Nutcracker, with new choreography by GSB Artistic Directors Iliana Lopez & Franklin Gamero, both former Principal Dancers with The MIami City Ballet.
FREE HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20, 5:00 - 7:00 P.M.
Delight in the magic of the season as BIG ARTS transforms its expansive halls into a holiday wonderland adorned with festive decorations. Do some last-minute shopping in our gift shop, which will be overflowing with handcrafted treasures and unique keepsakes from local artists. Have your picture taken with Santa, sing along to Christmas carols, led by the BIG ARTS Community Chorus. Indulge in light bites and refreshments, stroll through our two gallery exhibits, engage with the artists and watch live demonstrations by our talented instructors.
FREE HOLIDAY FAMILY FILM
THE POLAR EXPRESS
MONDAY, DECEMBER 23, 6:30 P.M.
Join us for a heartwarming family experience as we present The Polar Express on the big screen in Christensen Performance Hall. Follow along as a young boy embarks on a magical journey to the North Pole, where he discovers the true meaning of friendship, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas. Don’t miss this fun-filled holiday tradition, complete with seasonal mock-tails and jingle bells for all children in attendance!
BIG ARTS ANNUAL SPRING DELIGHT
Welcome the spring season with four enjoyable community events: a showcase by the Gulf Coast Symphony, a harmonious performance by the BIG ARTS Community Chorus and Concert Band, a fun-filled Family & Friends Day, and the vibrant celebration of creativity at Art Vibe.
GULF COAST SYMPHONY
FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 7:30 P.M.
Experience the magic of music with the Gulf Coast Symphony, a distinguished professional orchestra from Southwest Florida, whose rich traditions of unique and innovative collaborations create high-quality, dynamic performances. This event will feature the Oscar and Tony-winning songs of West Side Story, brought to life by talented Broadway singers.
Complimentary valet parking.
BIG ARTS COMMUNITY CHORUS & BIG ARTS CONCERT BAND - SPRING PERFORMANCE
FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 7:00 P.M.
You know spring has arrived on Sanibel and Captiva when you hear the creative vocal arrangements of the BIG ARTS Community Chorus combined with the stirring compositions of the BIG ARTS Concert Band! Watch and listen to these talented members of our community as they deliver an inspiring performance.
COMMUNITY 2024-2025
BIG ARTS ANNUAL SPRING DELIGHT
FREE FAMILY & FRIENDS DAY
FEATURING WILD WORLD OF ANIMALS
SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 4:00 - 6:30 P.M.
Join us for this annual, free event, featuring Wild World of Animals, an entertaining and educational show that provides an exploration into the fascinating world of the wildlife we share with the planet. Led by knowledgeable moderator and animal advocate, Grant Kemmerer, the lineup features live animals including some of the most majestic, interesting, bizarre, and critically endangered species in the world. Stay after the show for a fun-filled gathering outside in the Malone Family Sculpture Garden, complete with live entertainment, make-and-take art projects led by BIG ARTS youth instructors, and delicious family-friendly fare, drinks, snacks, and desserts.
ART VIBE
SATURDAY, JUNE 14, 5:00 - 7:00 P.M.
Don’t miss an unforgettable evening of artistic inspiration at this free and open-to-the-public event! See works from the talented students of Florida SouthWestern State College’s Visual Arts program on display in the Dunham Family Gallery. Celebrate the recipients of the 2025 BIG ARTS Creative and Performing Arts Scholarships. Experience live demonstrations from our esteemed artist-instructors and talented gift shop artists. Enjoy live music, craft beer and hearty appetizers as you mingle with fellow art enthusiasts.
VOLUNTEER
VOLUNTEERS ARE THE HEART OF BIG ARTS
At BIG ARTS, we treasure volunteers; you are our ambassadors. We could not do what we do without you.
Volunteering at BIG ARTS is a great way to discover all our organization has to offer. Give back to your community, meet new people and share your love of the arts!
VOLUNTEER ROLES AT BIG ARTS
Performances and Events
• Greeters and ticket takers at Christensen Performance Hall
• Parking lot attendants
• Receptions and community events
Gallery and Gift Shop Docents
• Help visitors enjoy the exhibits
• Engage with customers and assist with Gift Shop sales
We are always delighted to welcome new members to our diverse team of energetic men and women, who return happily year after year to spend their time with us.
FINE ARTS 2024-2025
2024-2025 Fine Arts Series Sponsored by Jim & Gaye Pigott
All artist receptions are from 5:00 - 7:00 P.M., are free and open to the public, and include complimentary light bites, wine and cash bar receptions. Please check the website for the most up to date gallery hours: BIGARTS.ORG
BIG ARTS DUNHAM FAMILY GALLERY
NAUTICAL TWILIGHT
DAHYE KIM
OCTOBER 20 - 27
The exhibition “Nautical Twilight” explores the quality of time in video and film, expanding it into space. It invites audiences to contemplate the present moment while appreciating the work that conveys poetic metaphors through light and color, thereby providing a unique experience.
ARTIST RECEPTION: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25
GHOST HORIZONS: POETRY AND PRINTMAKING
CHANDA JAMIESON AND ANDY OWEN
NOVEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 15
Inspired by personal experience and shared concerns about the waters of Southwest Florida, the works presented are a collaboration between poet and fourth generation commercial fisher Chanda Jamieson and visual artist Andy Owen. The individual voices of each artist overlap to create a powerful statement, expressing a deep appreciation and respect for the beauty of Southwest Florida’s waterways, as well as a desire to view its coastline with wonder and concern ... simultaneously, urgently.
ARTIST RECEPTION: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9
Paper Sky Woodcut, 28" x 22"
THE
COLOR OF AIR
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA ART LEAGUE’S 49TH ANNUAL JURIED ART COUNCIL OF SW FLORIDA EXHIBIT
DECEMBER 20 - JANUARY 26
This theme will inspire each artist to use their particular vision to create a unique interpretation of it! The results promise to be a visual feast for patrons and attendees.
ARTIST RECEPTION: FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20
COMING HOME...
MALLY KHORASANTCHI
JANUARY 31 - MARCH 9
A master of oil and collage, Mally returns to BIG ARTS with her new, dynamic work. Collage demands refined balance, not only in imagery and form, but also of content and theme. Her oils on canvas and paper collage emerge from personal experience with loss and with new beginnings.
ARTIST RECEPTION: : SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1
IMPEDIMENTS AND BYWAYS TO LOVE ON THE ROAD TO ETERNITY
MONIKA LARSEN DENNIS AND FRIDA OLIV
MARCH 14 - APRIL 27
In their collaborative installation, Monika Larsen Dennis and Frida Oliv invite us to wonder and think about obstacles that may be keeping us from loving ourselves and each other more fully, and consider how to bypass those obstacles to expand our capacity for love. This is an experience that fosters self-transformation. You can travel through the collective imagery to arrive at yourself. This open-ended journey may lead to new beginnings and create an imaginative space where anything can happen.
ARTIST RECEPTION: : SATURDAY, MARCH 15
Sailing, Peter Zell
Rhapsody in Blue
Four panels, oil on paper collage , 90”x 164”
Lonesome, Frida Oliv Oil on wood, 8” x 9 3/4" x 1/2"
Palm , Monika Larsen Dennis C-print under glass, 18” x 15” x 1/2”
FINE ARTS 2024-2025
2024-2025 Fine Arts Series Sponsored by Jim & Gaye Pigott
ART AS THERAPY; HOPE AND HEALING THROUGH ART
MAY 2 – JUNE 6
The partnership between Hope Healthcare’s Art Therapy Program and Lee Health’s Art in Healthcare Program conveys the vision of healing through art. Expressive arts, in all forms, strive to provide hope and healing through the creative process. The exhibit shares the journey of each artist during bereavement, grief, illness, depression, physical and emotional challenges, rehabilitation and recovery. We hope this personal and powerful exhibit elevates the community’s awareness of artists’ special abilities that emerge during difficult times.
ARTIST RECEPTION: FRIDAY, MAY 9
STUDENT EXHIBIT
FLORIDA SOUTHWESTERN STATE COLLEGE
JUNE 13 - JULY 25
BIG ARTS and FSW have partnered for years to give serious art students a venue to realize this essential part of the creative process: to exhibit, to share, to examine, and assess. With every exhibit, the students of FSW create a professional and engaging group of works. BIG ARTS is dedicated to education in the arts, and proud to continue to partner with our local art education institutions.
ARTIST RECEPTION: SATURDAY, JUNE 14
Two of a Kind, Taylor Scalzo
Untitled, Ofelia Aguirre Oil on canvas, 48” x 36”
BIG ARTS MEZZANINE GALLERY
THE HEIGHTS CENTER AT BIG ARTS
JULY 26 – OCTOBER 20
Every summer, BIG ARTS Outreach Program includes field trips with The Heights Center of Lee County. This collaboration between our Arts Education and Fine Arts departments provides engaging, hands-on art projects where awe, wonder, and youthful energy are evident in each piece of artwork.
SPRINGS:
ASSEMBLAGE IN FOUR MEDIUMS
PETER PAGE
NOVEMBER 8 – JANUARY 19
Peter Page works with the expansive endeavor of assemblage. After the elements are gathered, composition begins as a series of interactions – of form, content, in two and three dimensions. There is seeming simplicity and certain complexity. His exhibit “Springs” is an association of photography, graphic design, sculpture and assemblage. Abstraction and narrative both play roles in this evocative visual experience.
ARTIST RECEPTION: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9
LIFE IS ALCHEMY
MARIA PAULA SUAREZ
JANUARY 24 – APRIL 18
There is an imperceptible impact in contemplating how rare and unique our environments can be; hence, the information to which we are exposed shapes how we may perceive life and transform it. “Life is Alchemy” is an exhibition that explores the seemingly magical process of transformation that the artist has created from her experiences with love. With this exhibition, Maria Paula Suarez presents a series of works of embroidery on paper, portraying a landscape composed from flowers and words to invite the viewer to reflect upon emotions elicited by our contact with nature.
ARTIST RECEPTION: SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1
DoA Group 3 WSA-9
FINE ARTS 2024-2025
2024-2025 Fine Arts Series Sponsored by Jim & Gaye Pigott
ANNUAL ARTISTS COLLECTIVE
APRIL 25 – JUNE 6
The Annual Artists Collective features BIG ARTS instructors, showcasing an eclectic body of work that includes a wide range of mediums. The exhibit provides a glimpse into the artistic prowess they bring to our classes and workshops.
ARTIST RECEPTION: FRIDAY, MAY 9
BIG ARTS WEST GALLERY
LACY MCCLARY
SEPTEMBER 28 – JANUARY 31
Lacy McClary is an accomplished Sanibel artist dedicated to our community. She will create a mural and 3D installation specifically for the West Gallery. Lacy’s vision will guide us to look past the broken and see the beautiful. Her hope is that the work inspires joy and a fresh perspective on the beauty that surrounds us.
ARTIST RECEPTION: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4
CYPRESS LAKE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT MURAL FEBRUARY – JUNE
BIG ARTS is excited to invite the Senior Painting Class of Cypress Lake High School to create a mural for the West Gallery. They have integrated this project into their Fall 2024 curriculum.
Split Philly, Deb Zwetsch Dye on crepe de chine silk, 12” x 60”
THE BIG ARTS GIFT SHOP
Don’t miss the opportunity to stop by the stunning BIG ARTS Gift Shop, where you will find one-of-a-kind items created by our area artists, including a rich array of beautiful pottery, ceramics, home decor, handcrafted jewelry, fine art, and so much more.
ARTS EDUCATION
2024-2025 ADULT WORKSHOPS & CLASSES
BIG ARTS Workshops are grounded in more than four decades of history. In fact, BIG ARTS was created by a dedicated group of local artists who gathered to support one another and contribute to the community’s artistic vibrancy. They believed BIG ARTS should celebrate the artist in all of us, and that vision remains to this day. Over the years, the program has grown into a vibrant array of arts and fine craft workshops, guided by seasoned instructors.
Explore your Inner Artist
• Painting
• Mixed Media
• Pastels
• Alcohol Ink
• Glass Fusing
• Drawing
• Basket Weaving
• Writing
• And More!
2025 MASTER ARTIST WORKSHOPS
Each year, BIG ARTS offers a curated selection of workshops led by nationally recognized master artists across a variety of mediums. These classes provide invaluable insights into the creative process, techniques, and professional practices of accomplished artists. This season, we are thrilled to welcome nine master artists: Helen Burkett, Kathleen Conover, Douglas David, Cheryl Fausel, Melissa Miller Nece, Nancy Nowak, Jean Pederson, Christine Reichow, and Jane Slivka.
OPEN STUDIO - A Place for Inspiration
Join our monthly open studio. Use this time to develop ideas while working on your projects alongside other artists.
Tropical Shadow Watercolor
Kathleen Conover AWS, NWS, ISEA
Adventures in Mixed Media Jean Pederson AWS, CSPWC, ASA, MCWA
2024-2025 YOUTH CLASSES
BIG ARTS Summer Youth Classes offer a creative opportunity for kids to express their inner artist through engaging visual arts experiences across a variety of mediums.
For a full overview of BIG ARTS 2024-2025 Adult Workshops & Classes, Master Artist Workshops, Open Studio dates, Youth Classes, And Outreach Programs, visit BIGARTS.org/arts-education.
BIG ARTS CREATIVE & PERFORMING ARTS SCHOLARSHIPS
Since 1998, the BIG ARTS Scholarship Program has supported high school and college students from Lee Country in their pursuit of higher education in the visual and performing arts. In 2024, the program proudly awarded scholarships to six talented students!
L to R: BIG ARTS Gallery Director, Wilson McCray, 2024 BIG ARTS Scholarship Recipients: Cole Ellis, Sarah Conley, Evan Carville, Zachary Yoshida, Hazel Fitzpatrick, BIG ARTS Executive Director, Lee Ellen Harder (Not Pictured: Arabella Lilleslatten)
ARTS EDUCATION
2024-2025 OUTREACH PROGRAMS
BIG ARTS Outreach Programs foster partnerships with community development, educational, and healthcare organizations, opening new pathways of healing and communication through the arts. These programs provide opportunities for creative engagement and expression to underserved members of the community and healthcare workers in Lee County.
2024-2025 Outreach Programs Sponsored by Jim & Gaye Pigott
BIG ARTS engages more than 120 kids in gallery visits and make-and-take art activities, encouraging creative growth through visual arts.
The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood of Lee County by supporting education and wellness, promoting family and community development, and providing the benefits of enrichment and arts.
BIG ARTS helps girls from Pace earn credits towards graduation by offering art enrichment programing during the summer session.
Pace provides girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training, and advocacy.
BIG ARTS provides artistic channels for caregivers to express their emotions and improve the physical and mental health of healthcare workers in the workplace.
VISUAL ARTS FIELD TRIPS with THE HEIGHTS CENTER OF LEE COUNTY
ART ENRICHMENT CLASSES for PACE CENTER FOR GIRLS
ART RETREATS for CAREGIVERS OF LEE HEALTH
BIG ARTS LEADERSHIP 2024-2025
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Rene Savarise, Chair
Bob Wiesemann, Vice Chair
David Lowden, Treasurer
Don Rice, Past Chair
Lee Ellen Harder, ex officio
STAFF
Lena Baranova Accounting Assistant
Denise Dillon Events Assistant
Marina Dowling Office Manager
Barbara Freeman Executive Assistant
Meghan Govoni Marketing Director
Melody Hampton Database & Information Manager
Lee Ellen Harder Executive Director
Charlotte Hardt Customer Service Associate
Wendy Harriman House Manager Volunteer Coordinator
Gustav Christensen Carmen Courter
Scot Congress Mike Wood
Aimee Harrison Arts Education Director
Richard Jones Technical Director
David Kolson Chief Financial Officer
Greg LeBlanc Facilities & Maintenance Supervisor
Kelly Lowden Customer Service Associate
Wilson McCray Gallery Director
Michelle Schweber Development Director
Olga Semreen Staff Accountant
2024-2025 FILMS
FALL FILM FESTIVAL
Critically-acclaimed, Emmy-nominated documentary filmmaker Andrew Rossi will join us to screen three of his most engaging and entertaining documentaries.
Full event details, trailers and tickets available at BIGARTS.ORG
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15
6:00 P.M. Opening reception: lite bites, cash bar
7:00 P.M. The First Monday in May (2016) Magnolia Pictures, 90 min
Follow the creation of The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s most attended fashion exhibition in history, China: Through The Looking Glass, an exploration of fashions by Costume Institute curator Andrew Bolton.
8:30 P.M. Q&A with Andrew Rossi
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16
4:00 P.M. Page One (2011) Metro Films, 92 min
Unprecedented access to the New York Times newsroom yields a complex view of the transformation of a media landscape fraught with both peril and opportunity.
6:00 P.M. Boxed dinner reception & talk by Andrew Rossi
7:00 P.M. The Andy Warhol Diaries (2022) Season 1, Episode 1, 56 minutes
After he’s shot in 1968, Andy Warhol begins documenting his life and feelings. Those diaries, and this docuseries, take a peek behind his persona.
POST SCREENING: Coffee & dessert
Gracioulsy Sponsored by Dorothy and Seth Hemming
The First Monday in May Page One
The Andy Warhol Diaries
2024-2025 FILMS
MONDAY NIGHT FILM SERIES
Come enjoy a great ‘big screen’ cinema experience at BIG ARTS, complete with surround sound, cushy seats and a drink holder to enjoy your beverage during the movie. Best of all, meet new and old friends, watch outstanding, awardwinning movies and, from time-to-time, engage remotely with guest professionals from select films. Stay tuned and don’t forget to visit the website often for the fantastic February, March and April 2025 lineup.
ALL FILMS ARE AT 7:00 P.M. IN CHRISTENSEN PERFORMANCE HALL.
JANET PLANET | NOVEMBER 18
ANNIE BAKER, 2023, US, PG-13, 113 MIN
In rural Western Massachusetts, 11-year-old Lacy spends the summer of 1991 at home, enthralled by her own imagination and the attention of her mother, Janet. As the months pass, three visitors enter their orbit, all captivated by Janet. The feature film debut of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, Annie Baker, Janet Planet is an exquisite and treasured account of a mother-daughter bond.
MONSTER | NOVEMBER 25
KORE-EDA HIROKAZU, 2023, JAPAN, PG-13, 127 MIN
When her young son Minato starts to behave strangely, his mother feels that there is something wrong. Discovering that a teacher is responsible, she storms into the school demanding to know what’s going on. As the story unfolds through the eyes of mother, teacher and child, the truth gradually emerges.
A THOUSAND AND ONE | DECEMBER 2
2023, US, R, 117 MIN
After unapologetic and fiercely loyal Inez kidnaps her son Terry from the foster care system, mother and son set out to reclaim their sense of home, identity, and stability, in a rapidly changing New York City. A powerful statement of family, loyalty and love.
2024-2025 FILMS
MONDAY NIGHT FILM SERIES
ALL FILMS ARE AT 7:00 P.M. IN CHRISTENSEN PERFORMANCE HALL.
WICKED LITTLE LETTERS | DECEMBER 9
2023, UK, R, 100 MIN
When people in Littlehampton -including conservative local Edith- begin to receive letters full of hilarious profanities, rowdy Irish migrant Rose is charged with the crime. Suspecting that something is amiss, the town’s women investigate. Don’t miss this raucous and fun British comedy!
PERFECT DAYS | DECEMBER 16
WIM WENDERS, 2023, JAPAN, PG, 124 MIN
Hirayama works as a toilet cleaner in Tokyo. He seems content with his simple life. He follows a structured everyday routine and dedicates his free time to his passion for music and books and his fondness for trees. With beauty and existential questions, Wenders brings us to examine our own values. This is a gem.
FRIDA | DECEMBER 30
CARLA GUTIERREZ, 2024, US, R, 87 MIN
Frida is a raw and magical journey into the life of the iconic artist Frida Kahlo, narrated through her own words for the very first time - drawn from her diaries, letters, essays, and interviews. This visually stunning documentary features vivid, lyrical animation that breathes life into her unforgettable artwork, offering an intimate and personal look at Kahlo’s passions, pain, and resilience. The film captures the complexity of her artistry, politics, and spirit, intertwining her tumultuous personal life with her artistic legacy.
IO CAPITANO | JANUARY 6
MATTEO GARRONE, 2023, ITALY, 121 MIN
Together with his cousin Moussa, Seydou, a teenage boy, decides to leave Dakar in Senegal and make his way to Europe. A contemporary Odyssey through the dangers of the desert, the horrors of the detention centers in Libya, and the perils of the sea, this 2024 Academy Award-nominated film is a stunning and mesmerizing cinema experience.
FULL TIME | JANUARY 13
ERIC GRAVEL, 2021, FRANCE, 88 MIN
Full Time follows an ordinary working-class woman as she attempts to keep her head above water in a society that seems set up to ensure she will fail. Single mother Julie works a grueling job as a chambermaid in a five-star Parisian hotel. Her daily balance of commuting from her remote suburb into Paris, tenuous childcare and search for a new job to climb out of debt, becomes unmanageable during a paralyzing transport strike in Paris.
ALL WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT | JANUARY 20
PAYAL KAPADIA, 2024, FRANCE, 110 MIN
All We Imagine as Light, a Cannes Film Festival Grand Prix winner, takes place in Mumbai where Nurse Prabha’s routine is troubled when she receives an unexpected gift from her estranged husband. In tandem, her roommate, Anu, is attempting to find a spot in the city to be intimate with her boyfriend. A beautiful, poetic tale of love, friendship and self-discovery.
ANORA | JANUARY 27
SEAN BAKER, 2024, US, 139 MIN
Anora, a young sex worker from Brooklyn, gets her chance at a Cinderella story when she meets and impulsively marries the son of an oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairytale is threatened as her husband’s parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled. Winner of the 2024 Palme ‘d Or at Cannes Film Festival - the highest award given to the director of the best feature film.
Great communities create great organizations – not the other way around. In 1979,BIG ARTS was created, by, and for the community, and owes its rich history to a small band of dedicated artists who drew inspiration from each other and from the breathtaking island beauty that infused their work with grace and authenticity. They set out to create a special gathering place where artistic and educational experiences were accessible to all. Today that vision is alive and well. With the help of our loyal donors and supporters, BIG ARTS will carry that vision forward – providing joy,inspiration and a sense of community for generations to come.
Vision
To create great arts, entertainment and learning experiences that always inspire, enrich and delight.
Mission
Provide an array of quality entertainment, arts and education programs that enrich and nurture the lives of Sanibel and Captiva residents and visitors through:
• professionally led arts and enrichment classes and workshops for students of all ages
• stimulating and informative lectures and group discussions with renowned national thought leaders and educators
• dynamic visual and performing arts presentations of the highest caliber