"Now You See Us" by The Petticoat Painters

"Now You See Us" celebrates the legacy, visibility, and artistic contributions of women artists in Sarasota through a permanent public artwork honoring the Petticoat Painters. The artwork was acquired by the City of Sarasota and installed as part of the City's permanent public art collection, recognizing a group whose influence on the region's cultural landscape has spanned more than seven decades.

Founded in Sarasota in 1953, the Petticoat Painters is one of the oldest continuously exhibiting women's art organizations in the United States. Established to showcase the talents of women artists at a time when exhibition opportunities for women were limited, the organization has played an important role in Sarasota's artistic community for generations.

The title "Now You See Us" reflects both presence and recognition. The artwork honors the women artists who helped shape Sarasota's cultural identity and ensures their contributions remain visible in the public realm. As a permanent installation in the City's public art collection, it stands as a celebration of creativity, perseverance, and the lasting impact of women in the arts.

Petticoat Painters Day

The dedication of "Now You See Us" on November 5, 2026, was marked by a special civic honor from the City of Sarasota. In recognition of the Petticoat Painters' artistic achievements and enduring contributions to the community, Mayor Debbie Trice proclaimed November 5, 2026, as Petticoat Painters Day on behalf of the Sarasota City Commission and the residents of Sarasota.

The proclamation recognized the Petticoat Painters as one of the longest continuously exhibiting women's art organizations in the United States and celebrated the group's distinguished legacy since its founding in 1953. It also acknowledged the Petticoat Painters' Cultural Heritage Exhibition at Sarasota City Hall from March 2025 through March 2026 and commended the organization on the acquisition and installation of "Now You See Us" as a permanent public artwork to be enjoyed by residents and visitors for years to come.

The designation of Petticoat Painters Day serves as a lasting tribute to the generations of artists whose vision, creativity, and dedication helped shape Sarasota's cultural landscape. Through "Now You See Us," their contributions will remain visible and celebrated for years to come.