The 38th Annual Englewood Invitational Winter Art Festival is coming up Saturday and Sunday, January 24 and 25, from 10 am to 4 pm both days. You’ll find it at the Englewood Elks Lodge, 401 N. Indiana Avenue, right here in Englewood, Florida.
Carroll Swayze, a well-known local artist, is running the show again this year as chairperson and curator. She’s called Englewood home for over fifty years, and by now, most people in the area recognize her bold acrylic paintings of ocean life. But she’s not just an artist; Carroll is a fierce advocate for original work, especially now that artificial intelligence keeps chipping away at what makes art truly personal. Her pieces land in collections all over the globe.
Creativity runs deep in Carroll’s family. She grew up at the Hermitage on Manasota Key, surrounded by creative energy. Her mom, Ruth Swayze, found success writing for TV, where she worked on “Taxi,” among others. Her dad, John Lund, made his mark as both an actor and director. Carroll and her mother both played key roles in saving and transforming the family home into The Hermitage Artist Retreat, which now draws artists from around the world.
“I’ve been an independent artist my whole life, and I believe in original art and the people who create it,” Carroll says. “Art lifts everyone it touches. We’re lucky to live in a community that really supports the arts. This year’s festival brings an incredible mix of work, and I’m proud to present Englewood’s 2026 Winter Art Festival.”
This festival is a dream for art lovers and collectors. You’ll find over 50 award-winning artists and craftsmen showing off everything from large watercolors, acrylics, and oils, to pottery, photography, mixed media, abstract paintings, creative crafts, sculpture, hand-blown glass, and one-of-a-kind jewelry. Honestly, there’s something for everyone.
Stop by from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. either day on January 24 or 25. The Englewood Elks Lodge will buzz with energy, and Beth Whisler’s Trucking Delicious food truck will be there both days dishing up homemade lunches, desserts, and drinks. Free parking makes things easy, too.
Round up your friends and family for a day of art, good food, and the chance to meet talented artists from around the country. You’ll be supporting original art and the people who pour their hearts into it.
Want directions or more details? Call Carroll Swayze at (941) 266-6434.
