Village of the Arts

The Artists Guild of Manatee was formed in 1999

As a non-profit with a mission to build a community where artists live and work while enhancing quality of life and creating a harmonious environment. The Guild is primarily made up of Village residents and business owners, along with community members who share our vision. Over the past two decades the Guild together with Village residents have worked hard to make the Village of the Arts a thriving place while enhancing the quality of neighborhood life and nurturing the creative spirit.

The Village is an eclectic mix of early 20th century residential bungalows, Florida Cracker homes, and later additions. The neighborhood features a legal commercial overlay, which enables a rare live/work/play mix. Village boundaries stretch from 9th Ave West to 17th Ave West between 9th St West and 14th St West. Over 275 individual properties are within the Village. Lecom Park, voted Florida’s best minor league ballpark is a block away, and downtown Bradenton and the Riverwalk, are within easy walking distance.

The Village has experienced remarkable growth, evolving from a neglected neighborhood, to one of the most unusual and visited places in Manatee County. The Artists Guild is excited about the future, as more residents arrive, new businesses take root, and ongoing infrastructure improvements continue. New events for the public have been sponsored by the Guild and more are being planned. In the past we have partnered with United Way Manatee for grassroots neighborhood beautification, worked with Realize Bradenton on downtown visioning and planning and offered space to other nonprofit groups during our monthly artwalks. We have also collaborated with the City of Bradenton on various ordinances affecting the Village. More exciting projects are in the pipeline!

Come experience the Village soon, whether to explore, to dine, or become a part of our unique community!