City launches Spirit of Sarasota postcard contest
Nov. 9, 2026
Submissions open at noon on Monday, Nov. 16, for the Spirit of Sarasota postcard contest, presented by the City of Sarasota Public Art Program in partnership with Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ).
The contest provides an opportunity for artists of all experience levels in Sarasota and Manatee Counties to capture the spirit of Sarasota through original postcard-style artwork. Artists or artist teams may submit up to three print-ready works, with the top four submissions receiving a $1,500 award.
“The Public Art Program is thrilled to present the Spirit of Sarasota postcard contest to our community,” said Public Art Administrator Ciera Coleman. “Beyond creating special and memorable artworks to be shared with the world on behalf of our community, this contest invites artists of all backgrounds to show off their skills, celebrate our city, and get involved in Sarasota’s Public Art scene.”
The Spirit of Sarasota postcard contest is inspired by a longstanding tradition of postcards depicting the beauty and character of Sarasota, taking the spirit of Sarasota far beyond the region and shaping how the world first saw this unique community.
“We want people to arrive at SRQ and immediately feel connected to this community we’re proud to call home,” said Sarasota Bradenton International Airport President and CEO Paul Hoback. “Our region has such a rich history and a remarkable arts community, and I’m excited to bring more of that into the airport. These postcards give local artists a chance to celebrate that history and give our residents and guests something meaningful to keep or send to someone across the country. We’re grateful to the City of Sarasota and its Public Art Committee for helping us make this happen. It’s one more way we can create a sense of place at SRQ and connect people to what makes our region special.”
The City of Sarasota Public Art Committee unanimously approved the postcard contest during its Aug. 5 meeting.
Participation is limited to artists living in Sarasota or Manatee Counties. Submitted artwork must be original: Copyrighted, trademarked, branded or AI-generated content will not be accepted. The deadline for submissions is Friday, Dec. 18.
The four selected winning submissions will be printed as mailable postcards and will be available to the public at no charge at the SRQ welcome desk, City Hall, and other locations to be announced. Postcards will be released quarterly in 2027.
For information on how to apply, submission guidelines, and more, visit Sarasotafl.gov/Spirit-of-Sarasota.
Media Contact: News@sarasotafl.gov
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About the City of Sarasota: The City of Sarasota is a diverse and inclusive community located on Florida’s Suncoast with 55,000 year-round residents, internationally recognized cultural arts venues, stunning sunsets along Lido Beach, restored Donald Ross-designed municipal golf course, and Major League spring training baseball with the Baltimore Orioles. Learn more about us at www.SarasotaFL.Gov
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