Spires Gallery

Your Destination for Fine Art, Unique Gifts, Custom Framing, Fine Art Instruction, & Fine Art Supply

Spires Gallery (formerly Artful Things) is marked by a rich history and high-level of dedication to fine-art. Many qualities come together to make our gallery one-of-a-kind:

We feature the works of both local masters and up-and-coming artists. Over 70 different creators local to Northwest Florida are featured in our Gallery.
We host three studio artists who come in daily to work. You will often see these gifted artists at their easels, pondering their next paint stroke.
We host a wide-range of ongoing fine-art classes and workshops.
We offer custom framing services and carry trusted, name-brand fine art supplies.

Featured

🌟 CALL FOR ARTISTS🌟
PARADISE FOUND:

A Drawing Contest & Exhibition

Spires Gallery invites local artists to participate in a special, fast-turnaround exhibition, which will take place in conjunction with our Studio Artist Sales Event on November 14th.

THEME: Depict your personal paradise—your little slice of heaven. This could be a specific setting (a home, garden, or room) or a perfect everyday experience (the ultimate burger or a perfect hair day). Have fun with it!

Community is at the heart of this showcase. The vibe is fun and casual, and everyone is welcome to participate—from kids and hobbyists to seasoned pros looking for a fun side project.

📐 Exhibition & Display Rules

Because selected works will be displayed back-to-back in a freestanding photo panel room divider, all entries must strictly adhere to the following physical constraints:

Size: Artwork must be 8” x 10” or smaller.
Substrate: Work must be executed on flat paper or thin bristol board so it can slide easily into the display tracks. Thick boards, canvas panels, or stretched canvases cannot be accepted.
Presentation: All entries must be submitted unframed. Entries can be matted or unmatted, but the total dimensions (including any mat) must stay within the 8” x 10” limit.
Permitted Mediums: Graphite, charcoal, pen and ink, colored pencil, conté crayon, and markers.
Content: Artwork must be family-friendly (no nudity, overt sensuality, or disturbing imagery).

🏆 Categories & Prizes

The contest features two age divisions:

Under 16 ($5 entry fee per piece)
16 and Older ($10 entry fee per piece)

The Prize: A judge will select a top winner in each category. Each winner will receive a $60 Spires Gallery voucher valid for art supplies or custom framing.

📅 Important Dates

Submission Deadline: Thursday, November 12, 2026
Exhibition & Awards Ceremony: Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 2:00 PM (Held in conjunction with our Studio-Artist Holiday Sale which runs from 1:00-3:00)