Elevate Artworks: Art with Purpose has opened its doors within the newly renovated Estero Bay Marina in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. Founded by Rodney Flounders, the gallery occupies a space that was previously destroyed by Hurricane Ian and now showcases fine art from across the state. The venue aims to bring a high-caliber gallery experience, comparable to major art hubs like Naples or New York, to the local Southwest Florida community.
The gallery distinguishes itself through a philanthropic business model where a portion of all art sales is donated to charitable organizations. Its inaugural partner is the Miles of Smiles Foundation, which provides equine therapy for veterans and children. By requiring participating artists to contribute a percentage of their proceeds, the space functions as a collaborative effort to merge the local art market with social impact and disaster recovery.