Society of Four Arts | Palm Beach

The Society of the Four Arts is a nonprofit cultural organization located in Palm Beach, Florida, dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the community. Since its founding in 1936, the Society has served as a major center for art, music, theater, and education in the Palm Beach area, offering a wide range of artistic programs and events throughout the year. The Society is renowned for its world-class concerts, art exhibitions, lectures, and performances, making it one of the key cultural institutions in the region.

History and Purpose

The Society of the Four Arts was established in 1936 by a group of prominent Palm Beach residents with the aim of promoting the arts in the community. The name "Four Arts" refers to the four pillars of the Society's mission: Art, Music, Drama, and Literature. Over the years, the organization has grown to become a major cultural institution in Palm Beach, offering a variety of programs that cater to different interests and age groups. The Society is particularly well-known for its high-caliber performances and its commitment to providing educational and artistic experiences for people of all ages.

Key Facilities and Venues

The Society of the Four Arts is spread across a beautifully landscaped campus along the Intracoastal Waterway, and it includes several key facilities:

1. Esther B. O'Keeffe Gallery Building

This building houses the Society’s main art gallery, where rotating exhibitions of fine art are held throughout the year.

The gallery hosts both local and international artists, with an emphasis on exhibitions that are both educational and inspiring.

The Walter S. Gubelmann Auditorium, located within the O'Keeffe Building, is a state-of-the-art performance venue that hosts concerts, lectures, film screenings, and other cultural events. It has a seating capacity of around 700.

2. Dixon Education Building

This facility is dedicated to educational programs and lifelong learning. It features classrooms, an art studio, and spaces for visiting artists.

The Dixon Education Building also hosts various classes, workshops, and lectures on a variety of topics related to the arts, culture, and humanities.

3. King Library

The King Library is one of the primary libraries in Palm Beach and serves as a major resource for residents and visitors. It houses over 70,000 volumes, including rare and special collections.

The library is also a hub for intellectual engagement, offering book discussions, lectures, and other events for the community.

4. Children’s Library

Located in the Rovensky Building, the Children’s Library is dedicated to serving younger audiences with books, computers, and various educational programs tailored to children and families.

It plays an important role in encouraging young people to engage with the arts and literature.

5. Gardens

The Four Arts campus is also home to beautiful gardens, including the Four Arts Demonstration Garden, which showcases various landscaping techniques and designs.

One of the highlights of the campus is the Philip Hulitar Sculpture Garden, which features a collection of outdoor sculptures by renowned artists. The Sculpture Garden will be undergoing renovations from Summer to Fall 2025, so it will be temporarily closed during this period.

Cultural Programs and Events

The Society of the Four Arts offers a wide variety of cultural programs throughout the year, focusing on its four core arts pillars: Art, Music, Drama, and Literature. Its programming is designed to appeal to a broad audience, from art enthusiasts to theatergoers and music lovers. Here are some of the highlights:

1. Concerts and Music Programs

The Society is well-known for its diverse and high-quality music performances, including classical concerts, chamber music recitals, and performances by internationally acclaimed artists.

The Gubelmann Auditorium serves as the venue for many of these performances, which feature a wide range of musical genres, from classical music to contemporary works.

2. Art Exhibitions

The Society hosts rotating art exhibitions that span various periods, styles, and media. These exhibitions often feature works from both well-established and emerging artists, providing a platform for artistic expression and exploration.

Past exhibitions have included works from artists such as Rory McEwen and Gil Maurer, showcasing the intersection of art, nature, and the environment.

3. Drama and Theater

The Society of the Four Arts regularly hosts theatrical performances and dramatic readings, bringing plays and performances to the Palm Beach community.

These performances range from classic works of theater to contemporary dramas, offering both local and touring productions.

4. Lectures and Workshops

The Society organizes educational lectures and workshops covering a broad range of topics, from literature and history to current events and scientific discoveries.

These programs are designed to encourage intellectual engagement and offer the community opportunities for lifelong learning.

5. Film Screenings

The Society also presents curated film screenings, often showcasing foreign films, documentaries, and classic cinema. These screenings are usually followed by discussions or Q&A sessions with experts, allowing audiences to deepen their understanding of the films.

6. Children's Programs

The Society of the Four Arts has a strong focus on educational programming for children. These programs include arts and crafts workshops, storytelling sessions, and performances tailored to younger audiences.

The Children’s Library is an integral part of this initiative, providing a space for young people to explore books and engage in creative activities.

Admission and Visiting Information

Location: 100 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach, FL 33480

General Hours:

Gardens: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (weather permitting).

King Library: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Children's Library: Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Admission:

Gardens and Libraries: Free entry.

Art Exhibitions: $10 per person (free for members and children 14 and under).

Programs: Ticket prices for concerts, lectures, and performances vary. For specific events, it is best to check the official website or contact the Society for details.

Summary

The Society of the Four Arts is an integral part of Palm Beach’s cultural landscape, offering an array of programs and experiences that foster a love for the arts and provide opportunities for both education and entertainment. From its high-quality art exhibitions and musical performances to its engaging lectures and family-friendly events, the Society serves as a beacon of culture and creativity in the region. Its combination of historic charm, world-class facilities, and diverse programs makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the arts in Palm Beach.