OUT Arts & Culture launched ArtOUT 2026 with an opening reception and awards ceremony on June 2 at The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art in St. Petersburg. Now in its ninth year, the juried exhibition celebrates LGBTQ+ artists and allies, transforming the Gulfport Public Library into a month-long exhibit. Over 150 submissions were received, with works from more than 50 artists selected, including top prize winners "Peek-a-Boo" by Nelson Perez Jr., "Amor Ferrari" by Brandon Camilo Mendoza, and "Best in Show – Luke" by Mark Fisher, along with honorable mentions. The winning pieces are also on view at The James Museum throughout June.
This event matters because it provides visibility and a dedicated platform for LGBTQ+ artists and allies in a region where such representation in traditional gallery spaces can be limited. By partnering with both a public library and a major museum, ArtOUT bridges community access and institutional recognition, affirming the importance of inclusive, identity-driven exhibitions in the broader art world.