Elevate Artworks / Art With Purpose will host its Grand Opening with a two-evening fundraising celebration benefiting the Miles of Smiles Foundation on Saturday, March 7, and Sunday, March 8, from 5:00-9:00 PM at 17953 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931. Ten percent of all gallery sales during the event will be donated to support the foundation’s work with veterans and children.
Founded and directed by Rodney Flounders, Elevate Artworks / Art With Purpose is set to become Fort Myers Beach’s premier fine art destination, showcasing internationally recognized, national, and local artists in a dynamic and inspiring space. The gallery is committed to elevating the arts while fostering partnerships that raise both awareness and funding for meaningful causes.
The Grand Opening weekend will feature appearances by several acclaimed artists, including Cary Di Valentin, Bonnie Sprung, Nancy Burke, Gil Sanchez, and others. Guests will also have the rare opportunity to watch live art creation throughout the event. Renowned artist Cristiam Ramos will create a new piece on-site, while Paul Vincenti will debut a new oil painting for his celebrated Mermaid collection.
A special highlight of the exhibition will be a rare “Gold Star” art piece featured on an episode of Pawn Stars: one of only seven painted doors from the home once lived in by Jim Morrison. Of those seven doors, only three are currently available for private acquisition. The piece is attributed to American Master Jim Warren and is expected to draw significant interest from collectors and art enthusiasts alike.
In addition to fine art, guests will enjoy live music, creating a vibrant and immersive cultural experience.
Miles of Smiles Foundation/Miles Ranch provides Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and mental health services for veterans suffering from combat-related PTSD. The Miles Ranch also provides Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and mental health services for underprivileged children with mental health diagnoses.
“Events like this show the power of community coming together through art to make a real impact in the lives of the individuals we serve,” said Gail Doxie, Executive Director of Miles of Smiles Foundation. We are grateful to Elevate Artworks / Art With Purpose for their generosity and commitment to giving back.”
Elevate Artworks / Art With Purpose is dedicated to bringing international attention to Fort Myers’ growing arts community while actively partnering with local charities and organizations to support fundraising and awareness initiatives. The gallery also plans to make its space available for community events, further strengthening its role as a cultural hub.
“This opening represents more than the launch of a gallery-it’s about creating a space where art, purpose, and community intersect,” said Founder and Director Rodney Flounders. “We are proud to support the Miles of Smiles Foundation and look forward to building lasting partnerships that benefit the local community.”
Admission is free, and the event is open to the public. Community members, collectors, and art lovers are encouraged to attend.
Elevate Artworks / Art With Purpose is located at 17953 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. For more information call (407) 925-2409 (website, email?)
For more information about Miles of Smiles Foundation, visit www.milesranch.org, call (239) 851-0624, or email keith@milesranch.org.