Winter Garden plans to celebrate their four-legged companions at the “Dogs Days of Summer: The Ulti-Mutt Art Exhibit,” a whimsical new art showcase featuring original canine-inspired works by local artists. The exhibit will be on display from July 1 through August 31 at the Art in Public Places Gallery inside Winter Garden City Hall.
What makes this exhibit especially unique is that visitors don’t have to leave their furry friends at home. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome to accompany their owners as they browse the collection, making it one of the area’s most pet-friendly cultural experiences.
The juried exhibit features 30 pieces of artwork inspired by dogs and summertime fun. Nearly 100 submissions were received in response to the city’s artist call, highlighting the community’s enthusiasm for both creativity and canine companionship. The selected works showcase a variety of artistic styles and mediums, all celebrating man’s best friend.
Another addition is a community exhibit, “The Dogs of Winter Garden,” that adds a personal touch by encouraging residents to contribute photographs of their own beloved pets. Visitors can add a photo of their dog throughout the exhibit’s run, creating a growing visual tribute to Winter Garden’s canine community.
To kick off the exhibit, the city will host a free Launch Paw-ty on Friday, July 10, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at City Hall. The family-friendly event promises an evening packed with activities for both humans and their pets.
Guests can enjoy self-guided gallery tours, meet exhibiting artists and their canine muses, and capture memorable moments at a dedicated Pooch Photo Station. Dogs can cool off in splash pads set up outside, while attendees enjoy themed refreshments designed for both people and pups.
The celebration will also feature dog-themed giveaways, raffle drawings for pet-friendly prizes donated by community partners, and plenty of opportunities for socializing with fellow dog lovers.
“The City of Winter Garden is happy to provide a tail-wagging good time for all our residents, including our furry ones, with these dog-centric events,” said Donna Corbus, Community Liaison and curator of the city’s Art in Public Places program. “Gather the kids and pooch and visit City Hall for some fun while cooling off from the dog days of summer.”
The exhibit is free to attend and will be open during regular City Hall business hours, Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Visitors should note that City Hall will be closed on July 3.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a dog owner, or simply looking for a unique summer outing, the Dog Days of Summer exhibit offers a fun way to celebrate creativity, community, and the special bond between people and their pets.
Event Details:
Dog Days of Summer: The Ulti-Mutt Art Exhibit
- July 1 – August 31
- Art in Public Places Gallery at Winter Garden City Hall
- 300 W. Plant Street, Winter Garden
- Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Free admission
- Friday, July 10
- 6–8 p.m.
- Winter Garden City Hall
- Free admission
Dogs attending the exhibit or Launch Paw-ty must be leashed, vaccinated, well-socialized, and at least three months old.
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