Florida Watercolor Society - 2026 Convention

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Get ready to pack your brushes and bring your boldest color — because in 2026, we’re heading to beautiful Bradenton for an unforgettable watercolor SPLASH!

This year features two exceptional venues:

The Bradenton Area Convention Center
The Herrig Center for the Arts

Immersive 4-Day Workshops
At the Herrig Center for the Arts, dive deep into your craft with master artists Soon Y. Warren and Michael Holter. Four full days to stretch your skills, refine your voice, and explore new creative possibilities in an intimate workshop setting.

Dynamic Shorter Workshops
At the Bradenton Area Convention Center, energize your creativity with exciting sessions led by Karen Knutson and Robin Lee Makowski — perfect for fresh techniques, new inspiration, and artistic breakthroughs.

Convention Kickoff — October 1–3, 2026

The official celebration begins Thursday, October 1, at the Bradenton Area Convention Center with a captivating demonstration by Soon Y. Warren.

Over three vibrant days, you’ll enjoy:

A full lineup of inspiring demonstrations (October 1 & 2)
Time to connect with fellow artists
A lively Trade Show filled with must-have materials, tools, and surprises

More details on the schedule and guest demonstrators are coming soon — and registration opens June 1.

55th Annual Exhibition

The 55th Annual Exhibition of the Florida Watercolor Society will be on display at the Herrig Center for the Arts from September 1 through October 10.

Join us for the Awards Reception on Friday, October 2 — an evening of celebration, recognition, and artistic excellence in a beautiful gallery setting.

Stay Your Way

We’re arranging discounted room rates at three area hotels, each offering unique locations and amenities:

Two hotels in Bradenton (including one directly across from the Herrig Center)
One in Palmetto, adjacent to the Convention Center

Choose the location that best fits your schedule and style. Hotel booking details will be announced soon.

Whether you come to learn, exhibit, connect, or simply soak up the creative energy, 2026 promises inspiration at every turn.

55th Annual Exhibition

Sept 1 - Oct 9, 2026

Herrig Center for the Arts

Enter May 11 - July 10

Exhibition Reception & Awards Ceremony

Friday, October 2nd, 5:30 - 7:30 pm.

PLEASE READ: To enter, your 2026 FWS dues must be paid by March 31, 2026.

2026 Convention

October 1 - 3, 2026

Bradenton Convention Center

1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL

Tickets go on sale June 1

Discounted
Hotel Room Rates

Available after March 12th

Two Bradenton hotel discounts will be offered:

Hampton Inn

Courtyard by Marriott

2026

Five Watercolor Workshops

Go on sale for FWS members March 1.

Please contact us at info@floridawatercolorsociety.org should you have any questions or if you require assistance.

We will get back to you within 1-2 days or as soon as possible.

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Florida Watercolor Society, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the division of consumer services by calling toll-free 1-800-help-fla) or from the website: https://www.fdacs.gov/Consumer-Resources/Charities Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the State of Florida. Registration #CH11285.