Sarasota Review

The Sarasota Art Museum, affiliated with the Ringling College of Art and Design, has announced its plan to donate 650 basketballs to local schools and community groups. These basketballs are part of an installation by artist David Huffman, featured in the exhibition "Personal to Political: Celebrating the African American Artists of Paulson Fontaine Press." The exhibition is currently on display until August 10, 2025.

Virginia Shearer, Executive Director of the Sarasota Art Museum, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative: “We are thrilled that the impact of this powerful exhibition will live on long after its closing date in the hands of local area youth.”

Angela Hartvigsen from Sarasota County Schools highlighted the significance of this donation for the upcoming school year: “Community support like this fuels dynamic, hands-on learning and keeps students moving—literally! We are extremely grateful to Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art and Design for their amazing gift.”

Of the total basketballs, 546 will be distributed among 39 schools within Sarasota County. The remaining basketballs will be allocated to community organizations such as All Star Children’s Foundation and Boys & Girls Club of Sarasota.

Charles Walker from Sarasota Housing Authority's Youth Thrive program acknowledged the museum's consistent community engagement: “Their latest donation of basketballs is just one more example of how they truly understand and respond to the needs of our youth.”

Roscelyn Guenther from Boys & Girls Clubs emphasized how this donation connects art with community engagement: “The donation...is more than just a gift...It’s a creative way to connect young people with the ideas and energy behind the exhibition.”

"Personal to Political" is organized by Bedford Gallery and curated by Carrie Lederer. The museum continues its commitment to contemporary art education through various programs and exhibitions at its location in historic Sarasota High School.