Orlando’s oldest and largest professional artist collective.

This year, we are celebrating four decades of supporting artists and enriching the Central Florida Arts community.

About McRae Art Studios

For forty years, McRae Art Studios has been a creative home for independent artists and a vibrant gathering place for the Central Florida arts community.

Founded in 1986 by George and Marty Whipple, McRae began with a simple but powerful idea: artists flourish when they have affordable space to work and a supportive community around them. That vision continues to guide us today.

Now the oldest artist collective in Central Florida, McRae Art Studios brings together professional artists working across a wide range of media who share a commitment to creativity, collaboration, and artistic excellence.

Our Story

McRae Art Studios began in a warehouse on McRae Avenue in Orlando — the origin of our name.

Over the years the collective has evolved through several locations, including an 18-year chapter in Winter Park. In 2017, we returned to our Orlando roots, establishing our studios the Arlington Arts Building at 1000 Arlington Street.

Today, McRae Art Studios includes 22 working artist studios, along with space for exhibitions, classes, community events, and venue rentals.

Our Artists

In our 40-year history, more than 100 artists have found a creative home at McRae.

Our members work in painting, ceramics, drawing, mixed media, photography, and sculpture. Their work is regularly recognized with awards in competitions and art festivals and exhibited in galleries and museums locally, nationally, and internationally.

Just as importantly, McRae artists share their knowledge and passion with the broader community — teaching, mentoring emerging artists, and helping foster a deeper appreciation for the visual arts.

New members join the collective through a juried process, ensuring both artistic excellence and a dynamic diversity of perspectives.

Visit the Studios

One of the special qualities of McRae Art Studios is the opportunity to experience art where it is made.

Throughout the year, we host open houses and special events where visitors can explore the studios, meet the artists, and purchase original artwork directly from the creators.

Collectors and art enthusiasts are also welcome to arrange private studio visits by appointment.

Community & Collaborations

McRae artists have long been active partners in the cultural life of Central Florida. As a collective, we have produced exhibitions and collaborations with organizations including the Leesburg Center for the Arts, Brevard Museum of Art, Orlando Museum of Art (First Thursday), Casselberry City Hall, Maitland Art Center, Winter Park Public Library, and CERO Gallery, among others.

We are always open to new collaborations and venues that help bring artists and audiences together.