President’s Message – April 1, 2026
Suzan Lanz
Dear FMBAA Members and Friends,
This past year has reminded me just how resilient, creative, and united our community truly is. The strides we’ve made these past several trying years were possible because of the dedication of our board, our volunteers, and every member who continued to believe in the mission of FMBAA.
Finding a cozy new space to call home has been transformative to FMBAA. Our membership, our offerings, and our shows have grown and flourished. FMBAA and our gallery have become, for many of us, a respite in the chaos of our world… a pathway to connections, friendships, & creative learning.
Together, we have strengthened our presence in the greater Fort Myers community through meaningful service, the shared love of art and joyful participation.
Over the past year, we:
- Moved into our new gallery
- Celebrated our 75th anniversary
- Assisted student art classes at Fort Myers Beach school
- Offered a variety of classes in the arts
- Held monthly shows/exhibits
- Handmade ornaments & auctioned off a Christmas Tree/Fundraiser
- Participated in the FMB Sand Sculpting event/Fundraiser
- Hosted a hole at Putt n Pub/Fundraiser
- Collected donations for the Gladiolus Food Pantry
- Supported the Harlem Heights School art program
- Celebrated the 30th anniversary of FMB
- Sponsored, judged, and presented awards at Cypress Lake High School’s Center for the Arts
- Created and donated a photo-in mural for the Lions Club 2026 Shrimp Fest Kids Run
- Won “Best Decorated” in the St. Patrick’s Parade on FMB
- Launched numerous free community programs—talks, demos, lunch-and-learns, open paint days, weekly Plein
Air outings and so much more
These accomplishments reflect the heart of who we are: artists, neighbors, and community builders.
As we look ahead, our goals are both ambitious and energizing. We aim to welcome more members to volunteer in these community events. In addition, we look forward to optimizing our gallery space and programming, streamline our digital systems, mentor and empower our members, and bring more patrons into the gallery to experience—and purchase—our art.
Just as importantly, we remain deeply committed to Fort Myers Beach. This community has shaped our identity for 75 years, and our future grows from this place. FMBAA will continue to be an active, visible, and supportive presence on the island. Our aim will be to strengthen relationships with local organizations and be active community participants so that we ensure that art and our fellowship remains accessible to residents, visitors, and
future generations.
Thank you for being part of this journey. I am deeply grateful for each of you, and I look forward to our future and to serve as your new President!
Warmly,
Suzan Lanz
President of the Fort Myers Beach Art Association