Get ready to embark on a journey into the vibrant heart of Hispanic arts and culture as Florida’s Paradise Coast gears up for another exhilarating celebration like no other. ¡ARTE VIVA! Presented by the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention and Visitors Bureau, this yearlong extravaganza promises to be an unforgettable tribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the Hispanic community, which constitutes nearly 30% of the region’s population.

¡ARTE VIVA! recently was recognized by the International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA) and the Florida Festivals and Events Association. These accolades acknowledge innovation, uniqueness, and creative collaboration.

“Our CVB partners are thrilled to participate and bring new programs to our destination,” said John Melleky, arts and culture manager for the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB., “¡ARTE VIVA! provides a tremendous platform to promote Collier County’s cultural assets because we know that the arts in Collier County mean business.”

The 2024-2025 season of ¡ARTE VIVA! will introduce new programs

The first weekend in November brings Día de los Muertos to the area at various locations.  Originating in Mexico, this vibrant holiday invites the community to come together, share cherished memories of loved ones, and celebrate the bonds that unite us. There are a variety of events and activities, which include:

• A grass wall installation at the Marco Island Center for the Arts;
• An exhibition and event on November 1 at Method & Concept;
• The free Artis—Naples Community Day event on November 2;
• The 3rd annual Día de los Muertos Celebration at Naples Botanical Garden on November 2 and 3;
• Mariachi Herencia de Mexico is visiting Artis—Naples for a performance on November 3.
• Visual arts take center stage with multiple exhibitions. 
• Artis—Naples presents its Florida Contemporary 2025 exhibition with Miami artist Marielle Plaisir, whose multimedia work includes sculpture, drawing, painting and photography.  In December, the organization showcases Rafel Lozano-Hemmer: Obra Sonora.  This Mexican-Canadian artist is known for his participatory installations and this work will engage and experiment with sound and music as the primary medium.
• The Face of Immokalee is a captivating installation at Lipman Farms in Immokalee. Photographer Michelle Tricca honors the resilient Immokalee community through a striking series of black-and-white portraits of its children. 
• In May, the Marco Island Center for the Arts will showcase works in collaboration with the Cuban, Latin American, and Hispanic artists heavily featured in the Museum of Contemporary Art of the Americas in Miami.
• In summer of 2025, Naples Art Institute will highlight the significance of Hispanic arts within our community as part of the Naples Invitational exhibition.

¡ARTE VIVA! will also be filled with the rhythm and melodies of talented Hispanic artists. The Marco Island Center for the Arts’ Musical Interludes will introduce a variety of musical talents, including Latin Grammy nominee Leslie Cartaya and the flamenco sounds of Terra Guitarra. Meanwhile, Artis—Naples boasts a lineup with nationally renowned artists Los Lobos and a series of symphonic works.  The music and performances will abound at Opera Naples’ 5th Annual Festival Under the Stars, and The Naples Players will produce the award-winning musical Man of La Mancha.

This year’s lineup will also include the 30^th Annual Farmers Market at Third Street South with local Hispanic vendors, the South American Exhibit at Naples Zoo, a medley of outdoor art festivals, and much more. ¡ARTE VIVA! is set to offer residents and visitors an unrivaled assortment of events and performances throughout the year, spread across multiple locations throughout Florida’s Paradise Coast. It’s a heartfelt tribute to Hispanic culture’s beauty, vibrancy, and unique contributions.

For a comprehensive list of upcoming events and to immerse yourself in the ¡ARTE VIVA! experience, please visit the ¡ARTE VIVA! website at arte-viva.com.

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