Artopia celebrates 25th anniversary

Artopia 2023 promotional flyer courtesy: Serene Smallwood

Immerse yourself into the dynamic arts and culture scene of Tallahassee at Artopia 2023, an annual art auction that celebrates local and regional talent while contributing to the fight against HIV/AIDS through captivating art sales, live music and cultural experiences.

For the 25th consecutive year, local and regional artists, musicians and performers are coming together for Artopia 2023, making Tallahassee a hive of creativity and expression. It is set to take place at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at the Civic Center.

Artopia promises to be a must-attend charity art auction, featuring captivating art, interactive activities and diverse cultural experiences that highlight the rich artistic talent of Florida’s capital city.

The purpose of Artopia is to support and promote the local arts community, provide artists with a platform to showcase their work, and engage the public in a celebration of creativity and cultural expression while fundraising the fight against HIV/AIDS.

According to Dan Taylor, board member of Big Bend Cares, “Money is hard to come by as a nonprofit; so, this creative idea turned into this wonderful abundant summertime event that the local arts community has supported.”

As a community volunteer and event coordinator for Big Bend Cares, Serene Smallwood emphasizes the importance of Artopia in supporting their mission to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and provide vital resources to those affected by the disease. Smallwood described the significance of Big Bend Cares as “the only HIV/AIDS comprehensive resource services organization” in North Florida.

Artopia 2023 promises to be a night to remember, where creativity, community and charity come together for a meaningful cause.

Takila Brooks, chief development officer at Big Bend Cares, said, “Artopia offers a chance for artists to give back, in addition to having their original works juried for accolades, and networking among the other artists attending the event. As Big Bend Cares out-reaches to many sectors of the art world, Artopia presents a melting pot of student artists from universities, young professionals from up-and-coming co-op galleries, and the fine arts veterans who lead gallery shows.”

With its longstanding history of supporting the local arts community and raising awareness about HIV/AIDS, Artopia is a highlight of Tallahassee’s cultural calendar.

Dan Taylor encourages all members of the community to come out to Big Bend Cares 25th annual art auction stating “paintings, sculptures, (and) jewelry, there’s art for everybody from five dollars to 5,000 dollars.”

Artopia will be accepting art donations of all forms at https://bigbendcares.org/artopia/ until June 14, 2023.

For more information on Artopia 2023, contact Serene Smallwood at ssmallwood@bigbendcares.org and (850) 656-2437 ext. 224.