By Tracy McCormick-Dishman
editor@floridanewsline.com
The 2026 Mandarin Art Festival returned to the heart of the community in April, bringing artists and residents together under the canopy of the Patriarch Oaks for a showcase of national talent and local tradition.
Established in 1968, the festival has evolved into a multi-generational event for residents and visitors alike. This year, the venue was shaded by the Patriarch Oaks of Mandarin Road, which are hundreds of years old. The event hosted more than 100 juried artists. Exhibited works spanned a wide range of mediums, including painting, photography, sculpture, mixed media, jewelry and functional fine craft.
In addition to the professional artist displays, the event featured a Green Market with locally produced consumables, a dedicated Food Court and live entertainment. The Children’s Art Show remained a highlight of the weekend, with 15 area schools represented in this year’s exhibition.
“The 2026 Mandarin Art Festival was graced with fantastic weather, fabulous artwork and big crowds to enjoy it all,” said Susie Scott, past president and festival supervising board member.
Scott offered her congratulations to the artists recognized at this year’s event. “Congratulations to the winning exhibitors at the 2026 Mandarin Art Festival,” she said. “The winners are from six categories: painting, mixed media, functional, photography, jewelry and sculpture/glass, plus best of show, best booth and best reclaimed/recycled.”
Proceeds from the festival benefit the nonprofit Mandarin Community Club. The organization’s mission focuses on the preservation and beautification of the Mandarin community, while also maintaining the historic structures and property owned by the club.
2026 Mandarin Art Festival Winners’ Circle
Top Honors Best of Show: John Cheer; Best Booth Display: Heather Cohen; Reclaimed/Recycled: Robin Holt.
Judges Choice Painting: Emma Greenhill; Mixed Media: Kristina Hoover; Functional: Tim Bullard; Photography: Joshua Steele; Jewelry: Chris Massina; Sculpture/Glass: Don McCullough.
Award of Merit Painting: Noel Smith; Mixed Media: Laura Wallin; Functional: Pauletta Berger; Photography: Jesse Kraker; Jewelry: Mary Lee; Sculpture/Glass: Ben Peterson.
Susie Scott is a past president, Art Fest supervising board member and serves on the 2026 Mandarin Community Club board of directors.
