In the spring of 2006, fewer than a dozen interested artists and art supporters came together to as an informal group and decided to form the Greater Navarre Beach Arts Association, Inc. As a legal entity, the GNBAA became incorporated in the State of Florida. Will Lake, the GNBAA's first Executive Director, spear-headed the initial events. On May 14, 2007, the GNBAA was officially classified as a 501c3 charitable organization.
Since then, the GNBAA has:
Successfully promoted the arts in South Santa Rosa County by bringing thousands of visitors to Navarre Beach for an annual October Fall Arts Festival, (2006 – 2011) that showcases over 60 artists, plus local musicians, and entertainers.
Promoted local artists via Friday evening art showings of paintings, jewelry, pottery and photography in the former Art Shack on Hwy. 87.
Coordinated artist shows at the Navarre Library, at local businesses and gallery sites.
Built a performance stage located in Navarre Park that is used by the Navarre Area Chamber of Commerce for the Thursdays “Music in the Park” presentations, singing contests, and local music performances.Coordinated concerts by bringing talented musicians and vocalists to select venues.
Promoted special events such as: "You Can Be a Star in Navarre” singing contest, Navarre’s Parrot Heads “PhunFest” festival, an evening of local high school garage bands at Navarre Park, and “Recycle South Santa Rosa.”
To view the GNBAA's chronological history in PDF format, click this
link.
