DreamLarge kicks off Gilbert Mural Initiative in Sarasota's Rosemary District

A Dream Large mural by Tim Jaegar at 600 Central Ave. Depicts the historic Ace Theatre and Willie Rogers

By Sarasota Herald-Tribune Published May. 27, 2021

DreamLarge recently celebrated the creation of a new mural in the Rosemary District in Sarasota, marking the commencement of the Gilbert Mural Initiative.

The Gilbert Mural Initiative is a program that uses public art to highlight all chapters of the evolving neighborhood on the walls of the community’s own historic buildings. As part of the program, more than eight sites have been dedicated to Rosemary Art & Design District for future murals, each dedicated to illuminating the stories and figures from the district's not-so-distant past as Overtown, Sarasota’s first Black neighborhood.

At RADD's launch event on April 30, the initiative’s inaugural mural was painted live by local artist and RADD member Tim Jaeger. Commissioned by DreamLarge, the mural depicts the historic Ace Theater and a mystery man who was later identified by Vickie Oldham, president and CEO of the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition, as Willie Rogers.

To see the mural, visit the DreamLarge Yard at 600 Central Ave.

“We take great pride in incubating and catalyzing big ideas,” said Julia Groom, director of DreamLarge. “We’re proud to launch RADD as the foundational platform to showcase the heritage of the area while furthering the creative transformation of the Rosemary District.”

As part of the initiative, RADD is seeking muralists and funding opportunities. The public is invited to sponsor murals and provide spaces for future murals. A project fund has been set up at the Gulf Coast Community Foundation for donors interested in contributing to the initiative.

“RADD’s programming will revitalize our community, transform spaces and connect people while providing spectators with insights into our city’s historical, social, and cultural dynamics,” Jaeger said. “We’re bringing imagination and experiences to the Rosemary Art & Design District while building on the history of our community.”

More details about the Gilbert Mural Initiative are expected to be released on June 15 with an open Call to Artists. For more information, visit rosemarydistrict.org/gilbert-mural-initiative.

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