Palatka and Beyond – Discovering the Vibrant Art Scene in Putnam County

The brightly painted buildings quickly capture your attention as you drive through Putnam County, Florida. In Palatka’s downtown district, it’s easy to meander down the streets at an unhurried pace and check out the abundance of colorful murals. There are so many within such a short distance, making it easy to see them all. Taking a self-guided mural tour is one of the can’t-miss things to do when you visit the area. Stroll along at your own pace and listen to the audio recordings on your phone that teach you about each mural. Don’t stop there, though. While you’re in Palatka, make sure you also plan a trip to check out some of the other vibrant creations on display – including the ones at The Larimer Arts Center.

Taking a Tour of the Larimer Arts Center in Palatka, Florida
Address: 216 Reid Street, Palatka, Florida 32177
Hours: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Admission: FREE 

The Larimer Arts Center is definitely a stop any art enthusiast will want to put on their list. The historic building, built in 1929 as a library, is also a piece of art in itself. While the art may be what draws you in, take a moment to look around at the ornate architectural details – the building itself is stunning. Long known as the home of the Scarlett-Hill Theater and the River City Players, the building now welcomes more than just performers. With a free art gallery now part of the space, it has become a hub where stars of the stage and visual artists share the spotlight.

As for the actual exhibits, those rotate every other month. Art takes various forms, and these exhibits showcase some of Putnam County, Florida’s best artists across many mediums. 

Oil paintings, watercolors, ceramics, woodworking, photography, and jewelry are just a few of the ways the artists in Putnam County express themselves. Even better, there’s no charge to visit. The gallery is open seven days a week, and you can even get a guided tour upon request. The opening receptions are always a lot of fun, and you can attend those for free, too. There’s also usually complimentary refreshments at those as well.

Create Your Own Art at The Larimer Arts Center
In addition to perusing the artistic creations of others, The Arts Alliance of Putnam also has a variety of ways that you can embrace your own creativity at The Larimer Arts Center. While the upstairs of the facility is dedicated to art exhibitions, downstairs you’ll find space for artistic creations. Monday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can visit and take advantage of their Open Art Studio time. It is just $5 to participate, and you can come and spend time with other creative individuals while you work on your own masterpiece. It’s a great opportunity to be around other creative minds and get as creative as you like, without getting your own home dirty. You can bring whatever supplies you’ll need, but you’re also welcome to play with the other communal materials that are available there as well. You can also bring the kids along for the Family Art Workshops each 2nd Saturday of the month from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

There are also a variety of art classes that take place at The Larimer Center. Keep an eye on the Arts Alliance of Putnam’s event calendar to see what exciting workshops and classes are happening during your visit.

Art Shows at The River Center
The Gathering Artists of Putnam also host exhibits at The River Center in Palatka. Those rotate every other month as well, and admission is always free.
Address: 102 N. 1st Street, Palatka, Florida 32177
Hours: Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: FREE

You Can’t Explore the Arts in Putnam County Without Going to Melrose, too
Anyone in the arts community will tell you there is one other spot in Putnam County, Florida that is well-known for their thriving arts scene: Melrose. It’s about a 30-minute drive west if you’re driving from Palatka. It’s an easy drive and it’s totally worth it – especially for those who love art.

When you go, the first stop you need to make in Melrose is The Melrose Center. This is the location of the official Lake Area Welcome Center and it’s a great place to start your journey so you can learn more about the area. However, they also have a great restaurant onsite with delicious food. You can sit down for a meal, or just grab a fair-trade coffee and take a walk around to check out the amazing local art adorning the walls. They also have a really cool gift shop with unique gift items that you won’t find elsewhere. If you’re looking for truly authentic and special souvenirs to take back home, this is the place to go. 

If you can time your trip appropriately, you can also join in the fun of the First Friday Art Walk. Art, music, dinner – what more could you need? The Studios of Melrose Gallery & Gifts is located adjacent to The Melrose Center and has more creations from local artists. It’s open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and during the art walks. 

The Melrose Center:
Address: 307 State Road 26 Melrose, Florida 32666
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
(They are also open on select evenings, as there are many special events that happen outside of normal business hours. Always check the website for updated dates and times.)
Admission: FREE

Art is Everywhere in Putnam County
From downtown murals to rotating gallery exhibits and creative hubs tucked into unexpected corners, Putnam County proves that art isn’t confined to galleries here. It’s woven into everyday life. Whether you’re a dedicated art lover or simply curious, you’ll find inspiration around nearly every corner. Just keep your eyes open as you explore the area – art is everywhere here. You’ll even find some interesting pieces in our most rural areas. For instance, the Yaupon Brothers Tea Headquarters at Eagle’s Nest Farms in Crescent City has some unique creations by esteemed muralist Jules Muck. Download the Visit Putnam FL app for Apple or Android to learn about more interesting spots in our area.