“Access to art and our community and in the world is vital.”

- Carla Nierman, Executive Director, Art Center Manatee

With more cancellations than events this year, these are difficult times for arts organizations.

But there is one in Bradenton trying to move forward…one step at a time.

Art Center Manatee has been open for 83 years.

Like everyone, they had to find new ways to resume classes and remain financially solvent as Florida has become one of the Covid-19 outbreak epicenters.

And this summer, they’ve have managed to continue showing artist’s work and even having a kid’s camp - they tell us with all the appropriate Coronavirus precautions.

Executive Director Carla Nierman says they are pushing forward because of their mission – to teach and show artwork for all ages and skill levels.

“So art has many aspects to it,” said Nierman. “For instance, in the education area, it becomes therapy. It becomes a method of connecting. It improves self-esteem, cognitive abilities, problem solving.”

Nierman says she recognizes she does not want to be controlled by fear.

“So I'm doing the very best that I can for those around me and also myself,” she said. “And we're just we're moving forward. We're doing it.”

Over the last few months, reporter Virginia Johnson has taken you all over the Bay to see how folks are dealing with life in the time of Coronavirus.

To watch her previous stories, click here.