IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts (50th Annual)

Organizer's Promotional Message

Join us January 23–25, 2026, for the 50th Anniversary Celebration of IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts in scenic New Smyrna Beach, Florida. For half a century, this free to the public, juried public art festival produced by the Atlantic Center for the Arts has been a highlight of the winter arts circuit, bringing together more than 250 artists and thousands of art lovers each January.
Why IMAGES remains a must-attend festival:
•	Artist centric environment
Artists rave about the show’s accessible setup and scenic riverfront setting. One long time participant described the vibe as "mellow," noting that tear down and logistics are "one of the easiest in the business"—a rare combination of beach-town charm and professional support.
•	Prestigious awards + $30,000+ in prize money
In 2025, the festival awarded over $30,000 in cash prizes. These awards not only elevate artists financially but signal serious recognition—and are a major draw for both exhibitors and visitors .
•	Premier Patron Program
IMAGES's Patron Program is one of the most established and celebrated in the Southeast. Patrons not only support artists—they often make purchases and leave visible patron ribbons, enhancing each exhibited work’s prestige. 
•	Artist Lounge & Breakfast Event
In celebration of its 50th year, IMAGES continues to offer a dedicated Artist Lounge and a welcoming Artists’ Breakfast, providing artists a relaxing environment to connect, recharge, and network each morning.
•	Patron Ribbons & Recognition
Patrons visiting the festival are encouraged to award ribbons to the artists they support—adding a personal element to sales and creating a festival-wide sense of community and celebration.
•	Stunning Setting + Community Vibe
Set on vibrant Riverside Drive & Canal Street, IMAGES blends picturesque waterfront views with a welcoming atmosphere, live entertainment, and creative children’s activities 
•	Top tier organization & curation
Under the guidance of experienced festival coordinators Janet Gamache and Brian Young—who have successfully run prominent Floridian art festivals—the artist jury process, communications, booth placements, and logistics are professionally managed with care for the artists. 
•	A half century of artistry
After 50 years, IMAGES continues to inspire both seasoned and emerging artists with its well-honed balance of professional excellence and community warmth.
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What to Expect at the 50th Anniversary Festival
•	Engage with a supportive network of artists and patrons—many buying directly via the prestigious Patron Program.
•	Celebrate artists over coffee at the Artist Breakfast and unwind at the inclusive Artist Lounge.
•	Enter to win part of the $30,000+ prize pool.
•	Witness the excitement as Patron ribbons decorate artists’ booths—a visual testament to community connection.
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Calling All Artists & Patrons
Apply now and join this milestone celebration! Whether you're under the tent or in the crowd, you’ll be part of a festival woven into the cultural fabric of Florida. Patrons, this is your chance to discover compelling work, meet the creators, and show your support in meaningful, celebrated ways.
Come celebrate 50 powerful years of creativity, connection, and community at IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts—January 23–25, 2026, in the heart of New Smyrna Beach. Be there to mark a golden anniversary of artistic excellence!