Membership Spotlight: Liz Cooper, Florida CraftArt

This month we’re highlighting Liz Cooper, Director of Advancement at Florida CraftArt, a statewide nonprofit dedicated to supporting artists and connecting local communities through creativity and passion that is celebrating their 75th anniversary this year.

Liz’s role focuses on strengthening relationships and helping guide the long-term growth of the organization. Through her work, she helps ensure Florida CraftArt continues expanding opportunities for artists while keeping the arts accessible and welcoming to the entire St. Pete and Florida community.

Founded in 1951, Florida CraftArt now represents more than 200 artists across the state, presenting professionally curated exhibitions and public programming - like Youth Arts, Emerging Artists, downtown mural tours, and our recurring sand mandala created by Tibetan monks - that celebrate creativity and craftsmanship. One of the most immediate ways they create impact is by removing financial barriers - there is no admission cost to experience exhibitions or programming. The arts provide a voice, a sense of belonging, and moments of joy that ripple outward into the community.

For Liz, the most rewarding part of her work is simple: witnessing joy. Whether it’s an artist making their first sale, a visitor connecting with a piece of art, or a child discovering their creative spirit for the first time, those moments of inspiration are what make the space so special to Liz.

Florida CraftArt also plays an important role in supporting young creatives across the region. Through Youth Arts programming and partnerships with schools and community organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, the organization creates hands-on art experiences that empower children and spark confidence through creativity.

Located in the restored historic 1916 building, formerly the Rutland Department Store and the Golden Dragon Dance Hall, on Central Avenue in downtown St Petersburg, Florida CraftArt regularly collaborates with downtown businesses, residents, and organizations by opening its space for community gatherings, meetings, events, and art shows.

As downtown St. Petersburg continues to grow and develop, Liz believes the arts will remain a central part of what makes the city stand out. “In the next five years, I see an arts scene that grows with intention alongside that momentum. The arts have an opportunity not only to benefit from growth, but to help shape it. By staying engaged, open-minded, and collaborating across sectors, we can ensure that as downtown evolves, creativity remains at the heart of what draws people to St. Pete,” said Liz during her interview.

We’re proud to have Florida CraftArt as part of the St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership community. To find out more about their special programming for their 75th anniversary, please visit FloridaCraftArt.org.

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