Naples Art has deep roots in the Collier County arts community. Founded as the Naples Art Association in 1954, and located at the von Liebig Art Center at Cambier Park since 1998, the nonprofit arts organization offers a year-round schedule of art classes, festivals, educational events, exhibitions, and a summer camp for kids.
But, in recent years it’s fallen short of its potential for cultural influence and financial capacity — and that’s exactly what its newest executive director and chief curator is working to change.
Frank Verpoorten has been with Naples Art for about 15 months now, which follows his previous role as director and chief curator for The Baker Museum at Artis-Naples, and his previous museum roles in New York and in Europe.
Mr. Verpoorten was on the Florida Gulf Coast University campus to talk to the FGCU Honors College for its Provost's Seminar Series about his work to reinvigorate the art center. His visit was also part of the Naples Discussion Group’s 2021-2022 schedule.