One of the biggest advantages that the Villages of Citrus Hills offers its residents is beautiful year-round scenery. The scenic views and vibrant colors Florida is known for are exactly the type of inspiration that many aspiring watercolor artists are looking for.

Some of those inspired artists from the Citrus County area came together in 1981 to form the Citrus Watercolor Club. The club refers to itself as “the friendliest little watercolor club anywhere.” This “little” club is known for putting on some of the biggest and best art shows in the entire state. 

Homosassa Art Show

One of the biggest shows that the club holds each year is the Annual Homosassa Art Show and Sale. This show is hosted at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, in Citrus County. Less than half an hours drive from the Villages of Citrus Hills, the park is well known as one of the best places in Florida to view manatees. 

This year, the show will be held on Saturday, February 22 and Sunday, February 23. This will mark the 22nd year that the club has held a show at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. 

The show will be open to the public from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm on Saturday, February 22 and from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on Sunday, February 23. The show will exclusively feature artwork created with watercolor artists, and all of the artwork will be original creations except for a few reproductions that will be labeled as such.

Most of the artwork that is viewed will be listed for sale as well, so if you find a painting you really like you will have the opportunity to take it home with you! Twenty percent of the sale price of all artwork will be donated back to the park. 

Upcoming Club Workshops

In addition to the Homosassa Art Show, the club also hosts a number of workshops throughout the year for aspiring artists to learn watercolor techniques. These workshops are designed for artists of all skill levels, so whether you are a complete novice or a master painter there will be value in the experience. 

There are three workshops scheduled for 2014 each taught by a watercolor artist. Maggie McClellan will host a workshop on June 14 and 15. Donna Morrison will host a workshop on October 11 and 12. Tom and Bonnie Jones will host a workshop on December 13 and 14. These workshops will concentrate on watercolor techniques and are open to anyone who is interested in attending. The cost is $100 for club members and $150 for non-members. 

If you are interested in learning more about these workshops, the club itself, or purchasing watercolor paintings, there will be plenty of information available at the Homosassa Art Show.

Watercolor Painting Courtesy of Jude Caborn, Citrus Hills Watercolor Club Artist of the Month