With more than 50,000 square feet of galleries, interactive labs, and learning spaces, plus a growing permanent collection of over 3,400 objects, the AGB Museum of Art is a vibrant cultural hub where guests connect through art, education, and community.
More than 3,000 studies have linked engagement in the arts to positive health and wellness outcomes. The Watson Clinic Foundation's Arts in Medicine Program believes that creativity can build connection, reduce stress, inspire hope, and support healing.
For more information on the Foundation visit WatsonClinic.com/ Foundation or scan the QR code to contribute to our cause.
isn’t separate from wellness. It’s a vital part of it.
Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Michell Githens, President
Melissa Tyrone, Treasurer
Christy Apisa, Secretary
DIRECTORS
Stephanie Bernal Gregg
Kemp Brinson
Holly Cordero
Nate Dunham
Merissa Green
Eric Marshall
Stacy Walsh
Chelsea Young
ARTS PROGRAM & MARKETING COORDINATOR
Jordan Weiland
EX OFFICIO
Dr. Martha Santiago, Polk County Commissioner
Nancy Puri as designee for Superintendent of Polk County Public Schools Frederick Heid
Step into the world of architectural genius with a guided tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece at Florida
Experience the picturesque beauty of Wright’s largest single-site collection of buildings. From Annie Pfei er and Danforth Chapels to the Water Dome, witness how Wright’s design philosophy seamlessly merges with nature.
POLK ARTS AND CULTURE HALL OF FAME
Since 2014, the Polk County Arts & Culture Hall of Fame has celebrated the remarkable individuals whose passion, talent, and dedication have helped shape the county’s rich artistic and cultural identity. Each year, inductees are selected for their significant contributions to the arts and cultural community in Polk County for enhancing Florida’s reputation through achievements that reflect a strong commitment to cultural excellence.
Some of the past winners include Norman Small, Melony Bell, Jim Stafford, Dr. Jessie Owens, and Mimi Hardman. You can view the entire list at polkarts.org.
There are six awards given annually, which include Organization of the Year, Philanthropist of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Educator of the Year, Rising Star Award, and Art for Good Award. Awards are given at an annual gala, where individual winners are celebrated.
The Hall of Fame also plays an important role in raising awareness of the county’s diverse arts and cultural sectors. By highlighting the accomplishments of outstanding individuals and organizations, it encourages greater appreciation for the role the arts play in enhancing quality of life, fostering community pride, and driving cultural tourism throughout the region.
More than just an honor, the Hall of Fame serves as a lasting tribute to the artists, performers, educators, historians, advocates, and benefactors who have made a meaningful impact on the community. Their work has enriched the lives of residents, strengthened local cultural organizations, preserved important traditions, and inspired future generations to explore and appreciate the arts. Through their efforts, Polk County has become recognized as a vibrant destination for creativity and culture, the “heART of Central Florida.”
Visitors can explore the Polk County Arts & Culture Hall of Fame Exhibit on the second floor of the Polk County History Center as part of the Art & Culture Exhibit. The permanent display honors both the people and organizations that have helped cultivate Polk County’s thriving arts scene, offering a glimpse into the stories, achievements, and legacies of those whose contributions continue to enrich the county’s cultural landscape. Together, these honorees represent the creativity, vision, and community spirit that have made Polk County a place where the arts continue to flourish.
Polk County History Center
100 E Main St, Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 534-4386 polkfl.gov
Bringing Art to Unexpected Places
What if a trip to City Hall, a parks office, or another everyday public building could also be an opportunity to experience local art? The Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance (PACA) and Polk Vision wanted to organize a program with a clear goal: to provide Polk County residents and visitors with access to arts and cultural experiences in places where they might not normally expect to find them. Art In Public Spaces was born.
That simple but powerful idea became the foundation of the Student Art Showcase Initiative, designed to bring student artwork into public spaces throughout Polk County. The spark for the Student Art Showcase initially came from Cody McGhee, Parks and Recreation Supervisor for the City of Auburndale. McGhee imagined a project in which municipalities across Polk County could support local student artists by sponsoring artwork that would be displayed in public buildings. His vision would not only brighten municipal spaces but also provide recognition and financial support to student artists.
Once the concept was developed, organizers began exploring how to make it a reality. Working closely with Nancy Puri, Assistant Director of Fine Arts for Polk County Public Schools, they discussed how the project could fit within the school district’s existing processes for evaluating and showcasing student artwork. Together, they developed a framework that would allow student pieces to be submitted, reviewed, and selected through a system already familiar to art educators throughout the county.
The next step was building community support. Project leaders presented the concept at a countywide Parks and Recreation meeting attended by representatives from municipalities across Polk County. The response was encouraging, and several cities agreed to participate in the inaugural year. Auburndale, Bartow, Haines City, and Lake Wales became the first municipalities to join the effort.
The original model called for participating municipalities to purchase selected student artwork. Funds from each purchase would be used both to compensate the student artist and to cover framing materials. To keep the program financially sustainable, organizers plan to reuse the frames each year. While the initial investment would cover the purchase of high-quality frames, future costs would be significantly lower because only new mats and installation materials would need to be purchased.
As the program began taking shape, artwork started arriving from local schools. Early submissions included 16 pieces from Boone Middle School and Bartow Middle School. Municipal representatives were invited to review the artwork and select pieces for display in their communities. Once selections were made, the artwork would be professionally framed and delivered to the participating municipalities.
The Student Art Showcase Initiative soon became one of the flagship programs operating under the Art In Public Spaces banner. The initiative brought together a unique partnership among Polk Vision, the Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance, Polk County Public Schools, and the Polk Leisure Services Association.
Under the program, Polk County art teachers are invited to submit student work through an annual call for art. A jury made up of local artists, educators, municipal employees, and community representatives reviews the submissions and selects pieces for display. The selected works are then matted, framed, and installed in participating municipal buildings.
One unique aspect of the program is that artwork displayed in a municipality does not necessarily come from students who live there. Instead, the initiative intentionally mixes artwork from different schools and communities throughout Polk County. This approach encourages broader exposure to student creativity and helps residents experience the diverse perspectives and talents of young artists from across the county.
The displays are designed to rotate annually. Each spring, a new call for art is issued, followed by jury selection in late spring. During the summer, the chosen works are framed before being delivered to participating locations in late summer. The following year, a new group of students has the opportunity to be featured, ensuring that fresh artwork continues to appear in public spaces while expanding opportunities for participation.
The benefits of the program extend far beyond decorating walls. For municipalities with limited access to cultural programming, the initiative creates a simple and affordable way to bring art into everyday community life. For students, it provides valuable exhibition opportunities and public recognition of their work. For residents and visitors, it offers unexpected encounters with creativity in places they visit regularly.
What began as a single idea from an Auburndale parks supervisor has grown into a collaborative countywide effort that celebrates young artists, strengthens communities, and brings art to places where it can be discovered by everyone. As more municipalities join in the years ahead, the project promises to continue transforming ordinary spaces into opportunities for inspiration throughout Polk County.
THE GEM THEATER
Since first opening its doors in 1947, the Gem Theater in Mulberry has been a cherished part of the community’s cultural landscape. Originally built and operated by the Arnold family, the theater entertained moviegoers for a decade, serving as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. From 1947 to 1957, the Gem brought the magic of cinema to downtown Mulberry and became a beloved local destination.
After the Arnold family sold the property, the building entered a new chapter as a meeting hall for local chemical workers’ unions. Over the years, it also hosted a variety of community events, including social club gatherings, civic functions, and the popular Miss Mulberry pageants. As time passed, however, the building fell into significant disrepair. Many residents were unaware of its rich history or the important role it once played in the life of the city.
Recognizing both the theater’s historic significance and its potential to revitalize downtown, the City of Mulberry embraced the building as a catalyst project for community development. Guided by the belief that arts and culture help build strong, connected communities, the city invested Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) funding to completely transform the space. The result was the rebirth of the venue as “The Gem Theater 2.0.”
Today, the reimagined Gem Theater serves as a versatile performing arts venue rather than a traditional movie house. Equipped with a professional stage, state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, and a large projection screen, the theater is designed to host a wide variety of events. The venue now welcomes live theatrical productions, concerts, dance recitals, film screenings, community events, and private rentals, bringing new energy and activity to downtown Mulberry.
The coming year promises an exciting lineup of programming. In partnership with The Missing Piece Theatre Company, audiences can look forward to productions of “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder,” “Rumors” by Neil Simon, and two summer musicals. The theater will also continue its popular “Dinner and a Movie” series, where guests enjoy a themed three-course meal paired with a classic film experience.
As the Gem Theater continues to grow, its mission remains the same: to provide a welcoming space where new audiences can discover the arts, longtime arts patrons can enjoy quality entertainment, and visitors can experience the charm and community spirit that make Mulberry, and its Gem Theater, so special.
GEM THEATER
118 NW 1st Avenue
Mulberry, FL
gemtheatermulberry.org
LAKE WALES: CITY IN A GARDEN
Arts and culture are part of the fabric of Lake Wales, adding color, character, and creativity to every corner of the city. Nestled among the rolling hills of the Lake Wales Ridge, this charming community has long embraced the idea that great places are built not only with roads and buildings, but also with beauty, imagination, and opportunities for people to connect.
Visitors from around the world make their way to Lake Wales to experience the breathtaking beauty of Bok Tower Gardens, one of Florida’s most beloved landmarks. The gardens, along with the city’s historic landscape design, reflect the vision of founder Edward Bok and the renowned Olmsted firm, whose influence helped shape Lake Wales into what they describe as a “City in a Garden.” Nearly a century later, that vision continues to bloom.
Today, Lake Wales is carrying that legacy forward through thoughtful planning and a commitment to public art. The city’s award-winning long-range plan, Lake Wales Connected, celebrates the original 1920s streetscape concept while creating vibrant spaces for modern residents and visitors. The goal is simple: blend landscape architecture, public art, and community gathering spaces into an experience that feels both welcoming and inspiring.
A stroll through downtown Lake Wales reveals just how successful that vision has become. Revitalized streetscapes guide pedestrians through the historic district, where colorful murals tell stories of the city’s past, present, and future. Around nearly every corner, visitors can
discover a new piece of art, whether it’s painted on a building, incorporated into a public plaza, or nestled among beautifully landscaped gardens. In many places, public art and landscape design work hand in hand, transforming ordinary streets into living outdoor galleries.
Of course, arts and culture in Lake Wales aren’t limited to what hangs on walls or grows in flower beds. The city’s creative spirit comes alive through the events that bring people together year-round. At the heart of it all is Market Plaza, downtown’s gathering place where residents and visitors gather to celebrate community, music, food, and fun.
Popular events such as Lake Wales Live, Make It Magical, and the city’s Spring Fridays Series have become community favorites, drawing thousands of attendees each year. Whether enjoying live music under the stars, exploring local vendors, celebrating the holidays, or simply spending time with friends and family, these events showcase the uniqueness of Lake Wales.
From world-famous gardens to vibrant downtown celebrations, Lake Wales continues to prove that arts and culture are more than amenities, they are a way of life. And for residents and visitors alike, that makes every day in this City in a Garden a little more beautiful.
For more information, please visit www.experiencelakewales.com.
Central
THE DEPOT ARTS DISTRICT
The Lakeland Arts Association has been dedicated to fostering art for educational enjoyment and professional growth in the Lakeland and Central Florida area for over 60 years. In 2025, the arts association was presented with a unique partnership to create the Depot Arts District.
The Depot Arts District is a nonprofit creative hub building an inclusive, thriving arts ecosystem in Lakeland through exhibitions, artist studios, education, and communitycentered cultural experiences. They connect artists, makers, and art lovers by creating a place where creativity can grow, be shared, and inspire the community.
Located within Lakeland’s Midtown redevelopment corridor, the Depot is transforming underutilized space into a vibrant center for creativity, connection, education, and economic opportunity. By providing affordable studio space, public arts programming, exhibitions, and community events, the Depot supports working artists while helping strengthen Lakeland’s cultural identity and community vitality.
Over the next five to ten years, Lakeland has the potential to become a true arts destination. The Depot Arts District will play a major role in that transformation by providing studio spaces for artists, fostering entrepreneurship, and helping creative professionals build sustainable small businesses. By establishing a central hub for the arts, organizations throughout Polk County will have more opportunities to collaborate, share resources, and expand their collective impact. The Depot’s gallery space will also create new avenues for artists to showcase their work and connect with the community. As outreach efforts continue to grow, so will public appreciation for the value and importance of the arts.
THE DEPOT ARTS DISTRICT
955 E. Memorial Blvd, Lakeland, FL lakelandartsassociation.com
Instagram @depotartsdistrict
Facebook: Depot Arts District
How To Use This Guide
The following arts and cultural entities are listed by category in alphabetical order. Each listing has its physical location noted as well as contact information. Please check with the individual organizations to confirm specific events or hours of operation. Member organizations of the Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance have enhanced listings with logos and additional information.
The listing categories are:
• Arts & Cultural Event Organizers
• Art Councils, Guilds, & Cultural/Historical Societies/ Main Street Organizations
• Art Museums & Art Galleries
• Educational Institutions
• Live Music Venues
• Museums & History Centers
• Performing/Cultural Arts Venues
• Performing Arts – Music
• Performing Arts – Theatre & Dance
• Theaters & Theatrical Companies
ART & CULTURAL EVENT ORGANIZERS
863Art 863art.com
Art Crawl, Inc. Lakeland, FL artcrawlfl.com
Art Crawl, Inc. is a non-profit organization serving as a catalyst to celebrate the emergence of new and innovative artists in and around Central Florida.
Central Florida Event Vendors centralfloridaeventvendors.com
Central Florida Tix (863) 332-2787 centralfloridatix.com
Destroyer Media & Marketing 326 Ave C SW, Winter Haven | (863) 202-9172
destroyermediaandmarketing.com
Award-winning, hyperlocal coverage through social media and free, monthly publications. Haven and LKLD are the most awarded magazines in Polk County, with 22 awards from the Florida Magazine Association.
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Dorothy Jean’s Dream Initiative
PO Box 538, Fort Meade | (863) 274-3809 dorothyjeansdream.com
Emporium Tattoo, Piercing and Art Collective 4035 Florida Avenue South, Lakeland (863) 937-9235
We provide opportunities for artists, including exhibitions, galleries, markets & more. Our tattoo shop location also maintains a growing library of art supplies for members.
Lakeland Punk Rock Flea Market
FB: Lakeland Punk Rock Flea Market
Platform Art, Inc.
829 E Palmetto St., Lakeland | (863) 838-2262 platformart.org
Platform Art supports the creation of public art in communities.
The Bohrer Gallery Lakeland, FL | thebohrergallery.com
The Bohrer Gallery LLC is a privately-owned creative arts business producing signature annual events: Fine Art at the Magnolia & Scholarship, 4 Squared Makers, The Florida Arts Journal, and One Wall / City Gallery Artist Exhibits & Grant Projects.
ART COUNCILS, GUILDS, & CULTURAL/HISTORICAL SOCIETIES, MAINSTREET ORGS.
Bartow Art Guild
1242 E. Main St., Bartow | (863) 329-9893 bartowartguild.com
Bartow Art Guild advances the cultural arts by providing art exhibits, programs, services, and support for artists and the local community.
Davenport Historical Society, Inc.
5 South Allapaha Ave., Davenport (863) 258-7800 | davenporthistory.org
DHS aims to preserve the city’s history and share this heritage by contributing to the records of the state of Florida and the United States of America in an effort that will embrace our past while working toward a brighter future for all of Davenport’s citizens.
Frostproof Historical Society
210 S Scenic Hwy, Frostproof | (863) 635-7865 frostproofmuseum.com
The Frostproof Historical Museum’s mission is to preserve, protect, and restore historical artifacts and to share the history of their town and the people who made Frostproof what it is today.
Artists and arts-minded community members working together to create, support, and nurture the visual arts in the greater Lakeland area. The nonprofit focuses on visual fine arts through education, exhibitions, and professional development. All are welcome.
Lake Alfred Historical Society
210 N Seminole Ave, Lake Alfred (863) 224-2792 | lakealfredhistoricalsociety.org
The mission of the Lake Alfred Historical Society is to provide and protect Lake Alfred’s history and heritage for present and future generations.
Lake Wales Arts Council
1099 E State Rd 60 E, Lake Wales (863) 676-8426 | lakewalesartscouncil.org
The LWAC’s mission is to enrich the lives of all people in Central Florida by providing innovative arts education programs and world-class performance and visual arts experiences.
Lake Wales Main Street P.O. Box 4125, Lake Wales | (863) 678-4023 lwmainstreet.com
Main Street Bartow
180 Central Ave., Bartow | (863) 519-0508 mainstreetbartowfl.com
Main Street Winter Haven
254 W Central Ave Suite F, Winter Haven (863) 295-9422 | mainstreetwh.com
Ridge Art is a 73-year-old nonprofit competition art gallery giving away over $25,000 a year in prize money to artists.
ART MUSEUMS & ART GALLERIES
Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art at Florida Southern College 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland | (863) 688-7743 agbmuseum.org
The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art at Florida Southern College is a teaching museum that enhances lives through inspirational and engaging art experiences for all.
The Loft Art Gallery Downtown 254 W Central Ave D, Winter Haven (863) 409-5771 loftartgallery.square.site
Melvin Gallery & Burks Gallery at Florida Southern College 1118 Johnson Ave, Lakeland (863) 680-4743 Flsouthern.edu/ffa
Mitchell’s Coffee House 235 N. Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland (863) 680-2944 mitchellscoffee.com
Momentum Gallery
1242 E Main Street, Bartow bartowartguild.org Gallery Open Saturdays, 10am-4pm
Mulberry Cultural Center 103 E Canal St, Mulberry, FL 33860 (863) 354-6570 mulberryculturalcenter.com
The Mulberry Cultural Center is a municipally governed gallery and classroom space that seeks to serve the community through exhibitions, programs, and special events promoting the arts and humanities.
Notta Gallery
125 N Kentucky Ave, STE #103, Lakeland (863) 225-0839 Nottagallery.com
Polk State College
999 Ave. H N.E., Winter Haven (863) 297-1050 Polk.edu
Studio Wildflower exists to cultivate a calm, inspiring space where creativity is nurtured through art education, meaningful creative experiences, and original artwork. Rooted in community and guided by intention, the studio supports artists of all levels as they grow in confidence, skill, and selfexpression—allowing creativity to bloom naturally.
ARCHITECTURAL & HERITAGE TOURS
Self-Guided or Docent Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Davenport
The tour begins in the downtown area of Davenport, continues to six locations in the city’s government center and finishes with residential areas before returning to City Hall. This tour takes about an hour and covers both the history and architecture of the locations. To schedule a docent guided tour, please call (863) 604-5894.
Historic L.B. Brown House Museum
The Historic L.B. Brown House, built in 1892 by Lawrence Bernard Brown, a former slave, is a twostory home on 18 tree logs that are over 115 years old in Bartow. Restoration of the main house was completed in 2001. Admission is free. Call (863) 330-3122 to schedule a tour. Learn more at www.lbbrown.com.
Lake Wales Architectural & Heritage Tour
Located along the highland ridge of Lake Wales, Florida, the Lake Wales History Museum is housed in the town’s original Mediterranean-style 1928 Atlantic Coast Line Railroad station, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Lake Wales History Museum is an excellent place to begin a walking and/or driving tour of Lake Wales. Learn more about the History Museum, and pick up a Lake Wales tour map at lakewaleshistory.org/ historicarchitecture.
Frank Lloyd Wright at Florida Southern College
Florida Southern College is home to the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright’s structures for one client in the world. Tours featuring the architecture go out daily. Visitor Center hours are 9:30-4:30 daily, except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day & Easter. Visitor/Tour information: (863) 680-4597 or flsouthern.edu/frank-lloydwright.
Frostproof Heritage Trail: Downtown Tour
This is a guided walking tour of Historic Downtown Frostproof. This walking tour is approximately 1.5 miles and is by appointment only. Minimum of two guests with a maximum of 10 in each tour. Call (863) 635-7865 to make a reservation.
Lakeland
Downtown Public Art Trail
The Lakeland Downtown Public Art Trail provides a GPS-enabled map for visitors to navigate downtown and discover all the public art on City of Lakeland property. Trail users will find everything from permanent collection pieces created by renowned sculptors Albert Paley and J. Seward Johnson to the annual rotating sculptures in the Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competition. Map at lakelandgov.net/ arttrail
Lakeland History and Culture Center: Stories and Stones Historic Cemetary Tours
Join the Lakeland History and Culture Center staff for a free walking tour of one of Lakeland’s Historic Downtown Cemetaries. Learn the history and legacy of Lakeland as told through the stories of some of our past residents. Details and maps at lakelandgov.net.
Lakeland History and Culture Center: Veterans
Memorial Tour at Oak Hill Burial Park
Divided into three district areas: Temple Emanuel, Laurel Hill, and Oak Hill. Oak Hill Burial Park in Lakeland is the final resting place of many notable citizens, including military veterans. Details and maps at lakelandgov.net.
Gene Leedy Lifetime Works Tour
A founding father of the Sarasota School of Architecture, Gene Leedy chose to make Winter Haven his home in 1954 when he was commissioned to build the Sparrow House. Though the scope of his work is globally recognized, Winter Haven boasts more Gene Leedy buildings than any other location. The most advantageous way to see and appreciate the best of Leedy’s commercial and residential structures is via an automobile with the accompanying self-guided audio tour. The audio tour is on the web at geneleedy.com.
Polk County History Center Architectural Tour
Discover the neoclassical architectural elements that define this iconic Polk County landmark. Learn about the construction of the building and hear the stories behind the iconic Old Polk County Courthouse. The tour is conducted at 11 am on the third Saturday of each month.
Polk
History Center Cemetery Tours
Join History Center staff on alternating tours of Oak Hill Cemetery and Evergreen & Palm Cemeteries on the first Saturday of each month from October through April. Serving as Bartow’s first cemeteries, each site is the resting place for pioneering families and legendary leaders. Oak Hill Cemetery is featured in November, January and March. Evergreen & Palm Cemeteries are featured in October, December, February and April. Please call (863) 534-4386 for additional information.
Polk History & Heritage Trail and Citrus Label Tour
A great place to begin your journey along the Polk County History and Heritage Trail is at Polk County History Center. Stops include historic homes, vintage hotels, museums and more. From Frank Lloyd Wright to Civil War battles, there are many stories to uncover. Devote a day or several days to the Heritage Trail. To honor Polk’s historic tradition as epicenter for the citrus industry, the Citrus Label Tour was created. This driving tour, a partnership between the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame, Visit Central Florida and the Polk County History Center, is a series of historic crate label signs that enhance Polk’s Heritage Trail. A map of the Heritage Trail and Citrus Label Tour is available from the Polk County History Center, or online at polk-county.net/historycenter/history-andheritage-trail.
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS
Auburndale High School Fine & Performing Arts Departments
Auburndale High School’s Fine and Performing Arts Departments offer students high-quality artistic instruction in visual arts, music, digital media, and theatre.
Davenport School of the Arts
4751 County Rd 547, Davenport (863) 420-2557
davenportschoolofthearts.com
Davenport School of the Arts is a Polk County Magnet/Choice school that excels in the fine arts and leadership.
Dr. J. Owens Academy of Fine Arts, Inc.
1708 2nd St NE, Winter Haven (863) 604-5415
drjowensacademyoffineartsinc.org
The Academy is a non-profit organization that provides music education to low-income, disadvantaged youth and adults throughout Polk County.
Florida Southern College
111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland (863) 680-4111 | flsouthern.edu/home.aspx
Preparing students through dynamic, engaged learning to make a positive and consequential impact on society.
The Lois Cowles Harrison Center for the Visual and Performing Arts offers an enriched arts education for students with a demonstrated talent in the arts.
Integrity School of the Arts
818 E. Lemon Street, Lakeland | (863) 777-3710
integrityfinearts.com
Integrity School of the Arts is a homeschool enrichment center. Integrity provides the flexibility of a homeschool co-op with the quality instruction of a traditional school. ISA is also a space for local teaching-artists to practice and educate students in their chosen craft.
Jewett School of the Arts
2250 Eighth Street N.E., Winter Haven (863) 291-5373 jewettsota.polkschoolsfl.com
Polk State College
999 Avenue H N.E., Winter Haven (863) 297-1000 | polk.edu
PSC is a multi-campus institution serving over 20,000 students with Bachelor of Applied Science, Bachelor of Science, Associate in Arts, and Associate in Science degrees and a wide range of certificate and workforce training options.
Rochelle School of the Arts
1501 Martin L King Jr Ave, Lakeland (863) 499-2810 rochellearts.polkschoolsfl.com
As a 501c3 nonprofit organization, the Florida Children’s Museum serves as a center of the community. They hope to inspire the next generation and equip them with confidence, creativity, and a love of learning.
Florida Natural Grove House 20160 Highway 27, Lake Wales, FL 33853 (863) 679-4110
floridasnaturalgrovehouse.com
Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center 840 Johnson Ave, Lakeland | (863) 680-4597 flsouthern.edu/frank-lloyd-wright/home.aspx
Frostproof Historical Museum
210 South Scenic Highway, Frostproof (863) 635-7865
frostproofmuseum.com
Ft. Meade Historical Society & Museum
1 N. Tecumseh Ave., Fort Meade, FL 33841 (863) 285-7474 historicalsocietyoffortmeadefl.com
Haines City Historical Museum
1001 Ingraham Ave, Haines City
FB: Haines City Historical Museum
The Historic Baynard House
208 W. Lake Ave., Auburndale
Kathleen Historical Society
8950 North Campbell Road, Lakeland (863) 944-5656 kahsatsocrum.org
Lakeland History & Culture Center at the Lakeland Public Library
100 Lake Morton Drive Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 834-4269
210 N Seminole Ave, Lake Alfred (863) 287-3093 lakealfredhistoricalsociety.org
Lake Wales History Museum
325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales | (863) 676-1759 lakewaleshistory.org
FB: lakewaleshistorymuseum
Luster African American Heritage Museum
585 E Summerlin St, Bartow | (863) 797-6111 laahm.org
A place where visitors can learn about the rich and diverse experiences of being a person of African American descent in Central Florida. The Museum seeks to educate people of all races to value the countless contributions of Black Americans to the United States.
Museum Of Winter Haven History
660 Pope Ave NW, Winter Haven (863) 206-6855
FB: Museum of Winter Haven History
Polk County History Center
100 E Main St, Bartow | (863) 534-4386 polk-county.net/history-center
The museum serves Polk’s community through educational programs, special events, and volunteer opportunities.
Polk County Sports Hall of Fame
2701 Lake Myrtle Park Rd, Auburndale (863) 551-4750
470 S L.B. Brown Ave, Bartow (863) 944-6136 | lbbrown.com
The Brown house was built in 1892 by Lawrence Bernard Brown, who was born into slavery in Wacahoota. Brown moved to Bartow during the 1880s and built many dwellings, including the L.B. Brown House, now on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Mulberry Phosphate Museum
101 SE 1st St, Mulberry | (863) 425-2823 cityofmulberryfl.org/phosphate-museum
USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation Hall of Fame Museum
The Wonder House – Bartow 1075 Mann Rd, Bartow, FL 33830 wonderhousebartow.squarespace.com
PERFORMING/CULTURAL ARTS VENUES
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales | (863) 676-1408 boktowergardens.org
Through its historic landscape gardens, unique Singing Tower carillon, magnificent 1930s Mediterranean-style mansion, and 3 acres of natureinspired play Children’s Garden, the Gardens offer unparalleled opportunities for artistic, cultural, personal, and spiritual enrichment.
Branscomb Auditorium at Florida Southern College 100 Johnson Ave, Lakeland | (863) 680-4296 flsouthern.edu/campus-life/arts-centers/festival-offine-arts/box-office-information
Beautifully restored in downtown Mulberry, the Gem Theater sparkles as a performing arts and film screening venue for residents and guests to enjoy.
Historic Ritz Theatre
263 W Central Ave, Winter Haven (863) 937-1414
ritzwinterhaven.com
The Ritz Theatre has been downtown’s stage since 1925. The theater was beautifully restored and renovated in 2024. Today the Ritz is home to concerts, film screenings, community events, and more.
Laugh Out Lounge
19 3rd St NW, Winter Haven winterhavenlol.com/calendar
Ramon Theater
11 E Wall Street, Frostproof | (863) 635-7222 theramontheater.com
RP Funding Center
701 W Lime St, Lakeland | (863) 834-8100
rpfundingcenter.com
PERFORMING ARTS – MUSIC
Bartow Adult Concert Band
Bartow, FL | FB: Bartow Adult Concert Band
The Bartow Adult Concert Band is an ensemble of 60+ players who perform six concerts yearly.
Florida Philharmonia Orchestra, Inc.
PO Box 2142, Lakeland | (863) 399-7998 floridaphilharmonia.org
We are an all-volunteer orchestra, presenting four concerts each year. Musicians are drawn from Polk County and other neighboring counties.
The Hollingsworth Winds 2138 Greenleaf Blvd, Winter Haven hollingsworthwinds.org
Lakeland Choral Society lakelandchoralsociety.org
The Lakeland Choral Society, is an auditioned chorus with a history of singing classics, show tunes, spirituals, hymns, and anthems. They host concerts and participate in numerous events including performances with the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra and the Lakeland Community Band.
Lakeland Concert Band
PO Box 24238, Lakeland | (813) 716-2577 lakelandconcertband.org - CONTINUED ON PAGE
Lakeland Symphony Orchestra
111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland (863) 688-3743
lkldsymphony.org
The LSO is an arts organization that produces and presents symphonic performances, ensemble concerts, school-based outreach, interactive family events, and an annual opera.
Lake Wales Chorale 1099 E State Rd 60 E, Lake Wales (863) 676-8426 lakewalesartscouncil.org
Swan City Piano Festival Lakeland, FL | swancitypianofestival.com
The Swan City Piano Festival aims to engage the vibrant arts culture of Lakeland through a multi-day celebration of pianists and piano repertoire, past and present.
The Lakeland Music Club 1515 Williamsburg Square, Lakeland lakelandmc.com
The Lakeland Music Club fosters, supports, and promotes music in all forms, and encourages an appreciation for music in the home, school, and the community.
PERFORMING ARTS - THEATRE
Florida Southern College
1118 Johnson Ave, Lakeland | (863) 680-3089 Flsouthern.edu/ffa
Haines City Community Theatre 303 Ledwith Ave, Haines City | (863) 421-1893
hainescitytheatre.com
A group created to entertain, enrich, and educate the community by providing an intimate live theatre experience at a reasonable price.
Lakeland Community Theatre 121 S Lake Ave, Lakeland | (863) 603-7529 lakelandcommunitytheatre.com
The Theatre aims to provide an affordable, high quality theatre experience for the people of Lakeland and its surrounding areas and to create an opportunity for individuals of all ages to develop and showcase their talents in a safe, nurturing, educational environment.
Lake Wales Little Theatre
411 N 3rd St, Lake Wales | (863) 676-1266 lwlt.org
Since its founding, TWH has worked to fulfill its mission to inspire, challenge, entertain, and educate our community by creating exceptional theatrical experiences.
MOVIE THEATERS
Polk County IMAX 5500 Grandview Pkwy, Davenport (863) 547-0480 cinepolisusa.com
Cinemark Lakeland Square Mall and XD 3800 US Hwy 98 N Suite 910, Lakeland (863) 859-3140 cinemark.com/theatres/fl-lakeland/cinemarklakeland-square-mall-and-xd
CMX Cinemas Lakeside 18 & IMAX 1650 Town Center Dr, Lakeland (863) 937-0555 cmxcinemas.com
CMX Grand 10 Cinemas 920 Spring Lake Plaza, Winter Haven (863) 292-2466 | cmxcinemas.com
Regal Cinemas Eagle Ridge Mall 12 955 Eagle Ridge Drive &, US-27, Lake Wales (844) 462-7342
regmovies.com/theatres/regal-eagle-ridge-mall
Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre 4100 New Tampa Hwy, Lakeland (863) 682-0849 | silvermoondrivein.com
*Every effort has been made to make this an inclusive guide for patrons looking for arts and cultural experiences. It is possible, however, that organizations have been overlooked. The Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance apologizes in advance for any unintentional omissions or inaccurate information.
POLK COLLEGIATE ART CLASSES
For aspiring artists and creative professionals, Polk County is home to three outstanding institutions offering a wide range of visual arts courses. Students can explore everything from drawing, painting, and sculpture to graphic design, digital media, photography, and so much more. Whether pursuing a degree, sharpening your skills, or simply nurturing a passion, these local colleges provide opportunities for artists at every stage of their journey. Here are some of the classes offered, please visit their websites for up to date changes and more information.
FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE
Florida Southern College is a nationally distinguished, award-winning school. The campus has the world’s largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art is your “classroom,” the student-faculty ratio is 14:1, and they have a sustained affiliation with The United Methodist Church to support the values and success of the students and staff.
ART HISTORY & MUSEUM STUDIES
-Study alongside The AGB Museum of Art. Learn the aesthetic, cultural, political, and social significance of art, artifacts, architecture, and visual culture.
FILM (portfolio needed to apply)
-The BFA in Film program offers courses in production, screenwriting, cinema history, film aesthetics, storytelling for the screen, and more. These hands-on courses offer cutting-edge technology and the freedom to tailor your path.
GRAPHIC DESIGN
- Learn to design both traditional print and web, and immerse yourself in disciplines ranging from typography to video art.
STUDIO ART (portfolio needed to apply)
-Professors are nationally recognized artists and art historians who work with you individually and in small groups in nine discipline-specific studio classrooms.
TECHNICAL THEATRE & DESIGN
-Construct elaborate theatre sets and design intricate theatre costumes.
GALLERIES:
Melvin & Burks Galleries
Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art
FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE
111 Lake Hollingsworth Drive, Lakeland, FL 33801 flsouthern.edu
POLK STATE COLLEGE
DIGITAL MEDIA TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
-Students receive a foundation in graphic design, video production, web design, and visual communication with practical, hands-on projects using the latest technologies, workflows, software, and equipment.
PHOTOGRAPHY
-Polk State is the only local college offering a traditional black and white film photography course along with digital photography.
MURAL CLASS
-Students have the opportunity to design and work with a group of students to paint a largescale mural in the community.
STUDIO ART FOR BEGINNERS
CERAMICS
-Classes in hand building, wheel throwing, and advanced studies.
DRAWING
-Includes figure drawing, portrait drawing courses, and composition.
DESIGN
- This course is the basis for all other art courses. Students explore various methods, materials, and art media.
PAINTING
DIGITAL MEDIA
-Choose from a full roster of courses including digital video & sound, motion graphics, postproduction, image editing with Photoshop, web design, digital illustration, and more.
FUNDAMENTALS OF STAGECRAFT
- This course involves the technical areas of the theater, including scenery construction, painting, and lighting.
GALLERIES:
Winter Haven Fine Arts Gallery
Lakeland Art Gallery
POLK STATE COLLEGE
Main campuses are located at: 999 Ave H NE, Winter Haven, FL 33881 3425 Winter Lake Road, Lakeland, FL 33803 polk.edu
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SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
Southeastern University is one of the fastest-growing private universities in the U.S. This Christ-centered institution offers a student-focused, award-winning learning community with accomplished faculty members.
VISUAL ARTS
- Visual arts students have cutting-edge creative facilities, computer labs with relevant software, and the art studio – complete with instructional studio space and a kiln room.
FILM PRODUCTION
- Prepare for a career in the film industry, including short films, documentaries, postproduction projects, or the next feature film.
GRAPHIC DESIGN
-Learn digital design, typography, color theory, web development, UI/UX design, drawing, photography, and more.
