Ringling College Projection Mapping Partnership
A First-of-Its-Kind Public Art Experience in Sarasota
On November 7, 2025, the Palm Avenue Parking Garage was transformed into an immersive projection-mapped artwork during Arts on Palm, the November Fresh Fridays event. This temporary light-based installation marked the Public Art Program’s first projection mapping project and showcased how innovative, short-term artworks can activate public spaces and engage residents and visitors—an approach encouraged throughout the City’s Public Art Plan.
About the Artwork
The installation featured a continuous 10–15-minute loop of animated sequences created by students in Ringling College’s Department of Motion Design. As part of their Projection Mapping course, students were challenged to design 2D and 3D animations using Trompe L’oeil techniques that made the garage’s architectural “sails” appear to transform from flat surfaces into dynamic, dimensional forms.
Under the guidance of faculty and department leadership, students developed visually high-contrast, family-friendly content tailored to a live outdoor projection setting. Ambient animations between loops added subtle movement, allowing the installation to remain engaging throughout the evening.
Partnerships
This project was made possible through a strong network of community partners.
- Fresh Fridays, organized by NextMark and funded by the Downtown Improvement District, provided the event platform that brought hundreds of residents and visitors to Palm Avenue for an evening of art, music, and downtown activation.
- BARCO generously provided a high-powered 4K projector, enabling the work to be displayed at large scale with exceptional clarity.
- LightMural offered technical support throughout the installation process.
The collaboration demonstrated how partnerships between the City, educational institutions, and industry professionals can bring innovative public art experiences to life.
City Commission Recognition
At the City Commission meeting on November 8, 2026, the City of Sarasota issued an official proclamation recognizing the students of Ringling College’s Motion Design Department, their faculty and department leadership, and all partners who contributed to the project’s success. The proclamation acknowledged:
- the creativity and technical skill of the students,
- the educational value of the collaboration,
- the community impact of the event, and
- the alignment with key goals of the Public Art Plan.
The recognition celebrated not only the artwork itself, but the broader spirit of partnership, learning, and community connection that made the project possible.
A Night to Remember
The projection mapping installation quickly became a highlight of the evening, drawing crowds who gathered along Palm Avenue to watch the garage come to life with color, movement, and illusion. Combined with live music, gallery strolls, and downtown festivities, the event offered a unique and memorable public art experience for Sarasota.
The Public Art Program extends its gratitude to everyone who participated, partnered, or supported this effort. Projects like this reflect the creativity, collaboration, and community pride that continue to shape Sarasota as a leading city for public art.
Photos by Dylan Jon Wade Cox Photography