Discovering the Joy of Being a COCO Artist

A Talented Family of Creatives

There's something special about being part of a juried, nonprofit cooperative gallery sponsored by the Art Council of Southwest Florida. I became a member through one of the affiliated art leagues—Cape Coral Art League or Naples Art Association. From day one, it’s an atmosphere of encouragement and community. It feels non-commercial and almost like a family unit.

Real-Time Exhibitions with Real Value

My work is exhibited in actual gallery spaces—the Estero gallery located at Coconut Point Mall and the Naples gallery located at Coastland Center. I take comfort in knowing that my acrylic abstractions and functional art pieces are viewed by real art patrons every day. This visibility is invaluable for any artist.

Quality Counts: Monthly Juried Reviews

Every month, artworks—including mine—are reviewed by a peer jury. They balance abstraction and realism while giving attention to texture, framing, technique, and originality. Being one among these talented artists inspires me to keep refining my craft. It’s a motivating factor that pushes me to improve continuously.

Mingle, Staff, and Grow

Yes, I volunteer as gallery staff—six-hour shifts per month at Estero (and two if I’m at Naples). While I sometimes joke, “I’m on duty,” it’s honestly one of my favorite perks. It’s where I meet patrons, talk art, and learn so much from fellow creatives. COCO truly is a cooperative—as in, we all pitch in.

Fresh Art Every Month

Art changes monthly, from style to medium—painting, jewelry, fiber, ceramics—you name it. That means every visit offers something new. It’s always a thrill to see my own work appear alongside a fresh mix of exciting pieces. This rotation keeps the gallery dynamic and engaging for both artists and visitors.

Supporting the Art Community

Each sale doesn’t just benefit me; a portion goes back to my affiliate organization—whether that's the Naples Decorative Artist organization or the Southwest Florida Watercolor Society. It feels great knowing my art helps fuel art education and creative programs in our region. Supporting local initiatives is a rewarding aspect of being part of COCO.

Organized Tools for Artists

Once I’ve exhibited in the gallery, I gain access to the “Members Only” portal—my backstage pass. I receive staffing schedules, pay receiving fees, upload new pieces, manage profiles, and find forms and training materials. It’s a streamlined command center for my gallery journey. This organization allows me to focus more on my art and less on logistics.

An Award-Winning Space

Did I mention COCO Naples won “Best of Florida – Regional Art Gallery”? It’s humbling to be part of a gallery that resonates so strongly in our community—one that brings art and beauty to daily lives around us. This recognition adds a layer of prestige to my work.

A Spectrum of Mediums and Styles

I am always inspired by the diversity of my fellow artists. Paintings in acrylic, delicate fiber art, sleek ceramics, mixed-media jewelry—each rotation reveals new textures, colors, and creative voices. This variety enriches my own artistic journey and encourages me to explore new techniques.

Creative Fulfillment and Exposure

At the end of the day, being a COCO artist lets me do what I love—and share it where people can see it, touch it, even take it home. It’s the perfect mix of creative escape, connection, and public recognition. Plus, being surrounded by artists as passionate as I am? Pure joy.

My COCO Gallery Journey in a Nutshell

• Community-driven and juried—I grow while being among peers.

• Real gallery exposure—my pieces hang in bustling mall galleries with real foot traffic.

• Cooperative spirit—I volunteer, I learn, I connect.

• Supportive structure—the Members Only portal keeps everything smooth.

• Creative diversity and recognition—I exhibit alongside varied media and in an award-winning gallery.

  
  

If you're considering applying or curious how I tailor my applications and juggle volunteer shifts, I’d be thrilled to chat more. Being a COCO artist isn’t just a role—it’s an experience, a creative home, and a constant source of inspiration. If you are an artist residing in Southwest Florida and are ready to join the COCO artist community, complete the online application process soon! Remember, the season is quickly approaching!

JoAnne Crowson, Proud COCO Artist