Bay County, Florida is full of art! Take a drive around Panama City Beach, and check out the painted dolphins, turtles, and sea life statues spread out around town in front of businesses, at the piers, at schools, and in the park. If you love magnificent murals, drive through the St. Andrews Historic District and check out some of the homes on West Beach Drive. Downtown Panama City continues to add more murals around the area.

 

If you are looking for a creative art space for a private group party, or just feel like shopping, stop by Sun Bear Gallery and Art Studio located in Laguna Beach (west of Hwy. 79). Owners Steve and Marie Youngpeter are local residents. They provide a community space for exploring your creativity, offering a place to show, sell, buy, and create art. The gallery/studio has a laid-back vibe, showcasing many different types of art created by local artists (which are all for sale). You can also find turquoise jewelry and wood carvings designed with a chainsaw and a grinder! Groups are welcome; projects might include making charcuterie boards, stained-glass ornaments, or paintings, or…use your imagination! sunbeargalleryandstudio.com

 

Bay County Arts Alliance is a nonprofit that offers a museum-type experience as you browse the two levels of art in a beautiful, open space. Some art is for viewing; some pieces are for sale, and a small gift shop on site has items for sale. Bay Arts collaborates with community artists as well as with outside organizations for the goal of art beautification throughout the city. Director Jayson Kretzer is always willing to share information about the gallery, classes, and events. The Panama City Center For The Arts is involved in artist receptions throughout the year with special gallery opening nights, and festivals including Fluxe Art Festival and the Downtown Art Walk; both events are usually held in the Fall and Winter months. Stay connected through the center’s newsletter; you can sign up online. Check out bayarts.org for upcoming events and information.

 

The Gallery of Art on West Beach Drive in Panama City, opened by Mary Ola Miller in 1970, is one of the first fine art galleries in Northwest Florida. Mark and Kim White are the newest owners of the gallery, which is spacious and welcoming. The gallery walls are covered in high-end art. You can also find sculptures and the work of some very well-known artists in the area. The gallery hosts a large opening for a local featured artist about every five weeks, with guests coming from all over. Kim is an artist herself, and the artwork chosen is very detailed pieces of work. Most of the artists have a consistent following. Check out the website for studio hours and more history of the gallery at maryolamillergalleryofart.com, and follow their Facebook page for event updates.