ABOut
Our Mission
Island Art creates a welcoming space where artists, students, and the community come together to create, inspire, and learn. Through engaging classes, exhibitions, and collaborative experiences, we nurture creativity, celebrate local talent, and make the arts accessible to all.
Our History
In 1975, the Island Art Association (IAA) began when a small group of local artists had a vision in Fernandina Beach Florida. Their 1st gallery was established in 1979, in a 2nd floor location called “The Upstairs Gallery” on Centre Street. By the end of that year, they moved to a better location on Centre Street where they stayed for 22 years. In 1982, Marshall Brainard, the husband of one of the early members wrote the bylaws that were finalized and approved by the members. Thus, the Island Art Association Inc. was created. Through the years revisions have been made to the original bylaws but their mission statement has remained the same “The Association is organized exclusively for philanthropic and educational purposes. To develop and sustain an interest, appreciation, and enjoyment in and of the arts of Nassau County, Florida.”
In 2001 IAA purchased property at 18 N. 2nd Street, in the charming historic district of Fernandina Beach, FL. IAA members renovated an old restaurant to convert it into an artist owned and operated Art Gallery and meeting place. By 2010 IAA had saved enough money from gallery sales and Shrimp Festival revenues to build their Art Education Center.
