Early History of Towles Court

Towles Court was originally a residential area developed in the early 20th century, with many of the buildings dating back to the 1920s and 1930s. The neighborhood's architecture reflects the early Mediterranean Revival style that was popular at the time, with a mix of cottages, bungalows, and small homes. In its early years, Towles Court was a quiet residential area, but as Sarasota grew and its arts community blossomed in the mid-20th century, the area began to attract artists, creative professionals, and those looking for a charming, bohemian atmosphere.

Transformation into Artist Studios

By the late 1980s and early 1990s, the area began to see a shift as Sarasota's arts scene continued to grow. The original houses and buildings in Towles Court started to be repurposed. The concept of converting the historic homes and buildings into artist studios was first proposed by local artists and community leaders who recognized the need for affordable and accessible creative spaces. This transformation was part of a broader movement within Sarasota to preserve its historic structures while also fostering a burgeoning arts community.

The Towles Court Artist Studios officially opened in the early 1990s, becoming a center for visual arts. Artists of various disciplines, including painters, sculptors, photographers, and mixed-media artists, moved into the area, making Towles Court a significant destination for art lovers in Sarasota.

Today

Today, Towles Court is a lively and thriving arts community, however it has changed in the past decade. Our small, walkable neighborhood is home to several artist studios, galleries, and shops and restaurants, but many of the former artist studios were sold off to become private residences. Our building at 1938 Adams Lane is one of the last historic buildings that is still a thriving artist community, and the area retains a charming, eclectic character. Here at Towles Court Artist studios, we host regular events such as art walks, and open our studios to the public, and other cultural happenings like exhibitions, festivals, and workshops.