Anna Maria Island is known for its mix of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and eclectic shops and restaurants. Pretty much everything on the island is within a short drive or even walking distance, making it a convenient place to stay without renting a car. We have some of the best Anna Maria Island rentals that put you near all the action.
If you love to walk, you are sure to Bradenton Riverwalk. It’s even in the title!
This local event is a community staple. Featuring music, jewelry, and art, the event showcases the diverse line-up of talent in and around Anna Maria Island. There are some artistic achievements which still manage to impress us. We highlight the Riverwalk, the event, and the best art you can find on one of these tables by the water.
What is Bradenton Riverwalk?
Firstly, we need to cover the famous Bradenton Riverwalk. The Riverwalk is a boardwalk spanning 1.5 miles along the Manatee River in downtown Bradenton. It is not located on Bradenton Beach. How far is the Bradenton Riverwalk from Anna Maria Island? You actually have to head off Anna Maria Island, about 20 minutes, to reach the area.
It is a stunning park, with picnic tables, well-maintained greens, and splendid open views of the river. There are many local events at Riverwalk throughout the year, including the Farmers’ Market on Main Street, the Children’s Book Fair and Family Fun Day, and the annual Howl’ween Pet Parade.
What is the Bradenton Artwalk?
One of the main local events at Riverwalk is the Bradenton Artwalk. Every third Saturday, local artisans display and sell their imaginative and incredible art pieces. From fused glasses to paintings, carved gemstones and jewelry, the Artwalk is a dazzling display of everything that makes Bradenton a special spot to visit.
While the event highlights handcrafted art, you can also enjoy live music and grab some fun food by the beach.
What is the Best Artwork You Can Find at the Event?
We are continuously enamored by the fascinating artwork at Bradenton Riverwalk crafted by the local artisans. We can only highlight a few, but they represent some of the best artwork on the whole 1.5-mile walk.
The Landscapes of Lloyd Dobson
Lloyd Dobson is capable of capturing such an ethereal and simple moment in such a beautiful way. He makes original oil paintings, mostly of beach views off the Florida coast.
Brushes and Bouquets
Mike Parrot really embodies the spirit of the Bradenton, Florida art. He mostly paints marine life, like manatee and dolphin, on bold wooden panels. You can see the separate boards on the wood, as he covers over it with dazzling colors.
Pat Nickerson’s Watercolors
Pat forgoes traditional painting and artistry. He trades out regular canvases for rice paper, giving his work additional textures. He also loves to create birds. He uses mixed media and even 3D effects to create a very alluring image. Most of his work is on small cards, making them affordable take-home souvenirs.
More Stellar Arts and Crafts
The Bradenton Riverwalk artwork is stellar. The above is only a small sampling of the artwork you can find. You can also discover some inventive crafts. Stop by and see Letitia Napolitano for her diverse array of glass, ceramic, and crystal creations. Se Side Studios is often present with nature photography. You can also visit Lynda Shipley to see how she turns classic games and toys into authentic pieces of art. She refurbishes old toys, giving them a second chance at life in some wild and often weird ways.
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Anna Maria Island is one of the most picturesque areas of Florida, offering all the sunshine you’d come to expect, along with gorgeous white sand beaches and stunning views from all around.
