Ellen Negley is the 2023 Commemorative Poster Artist. When visiting Southwest Florida for inspiration, Ellen said, “Although I often move things around for composition’s sake, I rarely eliminate elements to make a 'pretty' picture”. Ellen loves busy tropical settings for her artwork - where she can use lots of color and have people bustling about.

Learn more about Ellen here

Sea You at the Beach was commissioned for the ArtFest Fort Myers 23rd anniversary to celebrate the resilience of the the beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel. This poster serves as a picture of hope for the future.

Ellen's watercolors are a reflection of her surroundings. Her paintings are likely tropical. "There is something so special about the light in south Florida and I am captivated by tropical foliage, especially palm trees, as you might have noticed," said Ellen.

Christine Adele Moore is the 2023 Hat & Tote Artist. Christine Adele says, “I use representational imagery to express visceral emotion. My work evolves from emotion that wells up from within, and I usually meditate on a sense of gratitude before beginning.  I find that this practice brings great joy to the process and results in paintings that celebrate life."

Learn more about Christine Adele here.

Garden Party is comprised of up to 12 layers. "This layering technique draws the viewer within the artwork and can have the appearance of active life that has paused for consideration and appreciation.”

Christine Adele says, "Working on canvas supports, I separate my layers of texture, water based media, and various materials such as metal leaf, with layers of clear acrylic resin."