Tampa has evolved into a vibrant hub for art lovers, brimming with galleries, street art, installations, and murals that speak to the multicultural influences of the area. Tampa’s art world showcases an eclectic mix of mediums and styles featuring local and international artists, from traditional fine art to avant-garde abstracts.
But the importance of these best art galleries near Tampa extends beyond the local level. By promoting a love for art, these establishments become catalysts for cultural enrichment, helping to stimulate creativity and broaden perspectives within the broader society.
Sure, they are the beating heart of Tampa’s artistic community, the spaces where artists, enthusiasts, and newcomers alike can gather to appreciate, discuss, and draw inspiration from the power and beauty of artistic expression.
In this article, we will explore the captivating world of Tampa’s art scene through these exceptional art galleries near Tampa.
1. Scarfone/Hartley Gallery
The Scarfone/Hartley Gallery is one of the best art galleries near Tampa. Situated within the University of Tampa, it was established to showcase contemporary art by both emerging and established artists. The gallery hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, featuring works in various mediums. It is also an educational resource for the university and the local community.
Highlighted Exhibitions:
- “Reclamation” by Elisabeth Condon: A collection of vibrant, abstract landscape paintings inspired by the artist’s travels.
- “ELEMENTAL” by Akiko Kotani: A collection of delicate, hand-stitched works created using unconventional materials.
Contact Information:
- Address: 310 N Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
- Hours:
- Sunday – Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Friday: 10 AM–4 PM
- Saturday: 1–4 PM
- Phone: +1 813-253-6217
2. Michael Murphy Gallery
Michael Murphy Gallery is another standout among the best art galleries near Tampa. Founded in 1997, it houses a diverse collection of contemporary art. The gallery features paintings, sculptures, and limited edition prints from renowned artists and up-and-coming talent. It also offers art consultation services, custom framing, and art installation.
Highlighted Exhibitions:
- “Celebration” by Csaba Markus: A series of limited edition prints featuring bold, colorful depictions of female figures.
- “Ocean Blue” by Ford Smith: A collection of vibrant, abstract landscape paintings inspired by the beauty of nature.
Contact Information:
- Address: 2701 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33629
- Hours:
- Sunday – Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Friday: 11 AM–6 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–4 PM
- Phone: +1 813-902-1414
3. Baisden Gallery
Baisden Gallery, one of the best art galleries near Tampa in the heart of Tampa, offers a curated selection of fine art, custom framing, and creative consulting services. The gallery focuses on contemporary paintings, mixed media works, and photography by both local and international artists. Baisden Gallery also hosts events and workshops to engage the community.
Highlighted Exhibitions:
- “Urban Landscapes” by Tim Arruda: A series of photorealistic paintings capturing the essence of city life.
- “Abstract Expressions” by Candace Knapp: A collection of mixed media works exploring the intersection of color, form, and texture.
Contact Information:
- Address: 4203 W El Prado Blvd, Tampa, FL 33629
- Hours:
- Sunday – Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Saturday: 11:30 AM–4 PM
- Phone: +1 813-250-1511
4. Solo Contemporary Fine Art
Solo Contemporary Fine Art, located in Tampa’s Palma Ceia neighborhood, is another one of the best art galleries near Tampa. It specializes in contemporary fine art from various disciplines. The gallery features original paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works from established and emerging artists. It also offers art consultation and acquisition services.
Highlighted Exhibitions:
- “Nature’s Rhythms” by Linda Whitenton: A collection of abstract paintings inspired by the natural world.
- “Geometric Illusions” by Craig Alan: A series of intricate, geometric paintings exploring depth and perspective.
Contact Information:
- Address: 2711 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33629
- Hours:
- Sunday – Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11 AM–4 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–3 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–4 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–3 PM
- Saturday: 10:30 AM–2 PM
- Phone: +1 678-619-7020
5. Phoenix Studio & Gott Glass Gallery
Phoenix Studio & Gott Glass Gallery, founded by glass artist Susan Gott is one of the best art galleries near Tampa. It specializes in glass art and glassblowing. The gallery showcases a variety of hand-blown glass pieces, sculptures, and functional art. It also offers glassblowing workshops and classes for beginners and experienced artists alike.
Highlighted Exhibitions:
- “Elements of Nature” by Susan Gott: A series of large-scale glass sculptures inspired by the natural world.
- “Colorful Creations” by David Spurgeon: A collection of vibrant, hand-blown glass vessels and sculptures.
Contact Information:
- Address: 811 E Knollwood St, Tampa, FL 33604
- Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 9 AM–5 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: Closed
- Phone: +1 813-267-1762
6. Hillsborough Community College – Gallery 221
Gallery 221, located within Hillsborough Community College’s Dale Mabry Campus, stands out among the best art galleries near Tampa. The gallery showcases contemporary art from diverse perspectives. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions that feature the work of local, regional, national, and international artists. Additionally, Gallery 221 serves as an educational platform for students and the community.
Highlighted Exhibitions:
- “Transitions” by Eileen Goldenberg: A collection of mixed-media paintings exploring the concept of change and transformation.
- “Visual Narratives” by Jee Hoon Stark: A series of detailed ink drawings that tell intricate stories through their imagery.
Contact Information:
- Address: Learning Resources Center, 4001 W Tampa Bay Blvd, Tampa, FL 33614
- Hours:
- Monday – Wednesday: 9 AM–4 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Friday: 9 AM–2 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: Closed
- Phone: +1 813-253-7386
7. Syd Entel Galleries
Syd Entel Galleries, located in Safety Harbor, is a family-owned fine art and custom framing gallery and one of the best art galleries near Tampa, serving the Tampa Bay area since 1976. The gallery showcases a diverse collection of original paintings, sculptures, and limited edition prints representing established and emerging artists. It also offers custom framing and art consultation services.
Highlighted Exhibitions:
- “The Color of Light” by Hessam Abrishami: A collection of vibrant, expressionistic paintings that celebrate the beauty of color and light.
- “Figurative Impressions” by Gary Welton: A series of figurative paintings exploring the human form through bold color and texture.
Contact Information:
- Address: 247 Main St, Safety Harbor, FL 34695
- Hours:
- Sunday – Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Friday: 9:30 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–3 PM
- Phone: +1 727-725-1808
8. Frame Factory & Gallery
Frame Factory & Gallery is another one of the best art galleries near Tampa. It is a family-owned business specializing in custom framing, fine art, and restoration. Established in 1976, the gallery features a variety of original and limited edition artwork, as well as a large selection of frames and matting options. It also assists with art installation and collection management services.
Highlighted Exhibitions:
- “Florida Landscapes” by William St. George: A series of oil paintings that capture the natural beauty of Florida’s diverse landscapes.
- “Urban Abstracts” by Deborah Mitchell: A collection of abstract paintings inspired by the energy and chaos of city life.
Contact Information:
Address: 3202 S West Shore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33629
- Hours:
- Sunday: Closed
- Monday – Friday: 9 AM–5 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–2 PM
- Phone: +1 813-839-0708
Unveiling Tampa’s Artistic Heart
Tampa’s vibrant art scene is perfectly encapsulated within the city’s diverse range of best art galleries near Tampa. The galleries mentioned each serve as unique pillars supporting and nurturing Tampa’s thriving local art community. These spaces provide a window into the dynamic mix of traditional and contemporary art that vividly depicts the city’s cultural fabric.
These eight galleries represent some of the best art galleries near Tampa, each offering unique experiences that range from student and faculty exhibits to showcases of nationally recognized artists. Whether you’re an art enthusiast looking to deepen your appreciation for local talent, a casual viewer keen on exploring the city’s cultural offerings, or an artist searching for inspiration, Tampa’s vibrant gallery scene offers something for everyone.