The 2024 Coconut Grove Arts Festival (CGAF), returning for its 60th year on Feb. 17, 18, and 19, is painting a picture of success in the fine arts community. Key outcomes of this year’s artist selection process — other than arriving at a list that includes some of the best artists ever to apply — indicate that the beloved arts festival is now emerging as one the most highly sought after shows in the nation.

The exhaustive evaluation process conducted by CGAF’s hand-selected professional jury panel closed Oct. 18, culminating in the selection of 285 top artists from around the world to be invited to exhibit at the 2024 festival over President’s Day weekend. 

What makes the 2024 process most notable is the number of applicants desiring to be part of this successful show that draws tens of thousands of art lovers and spectators each year. According to CGAF Executive Director Camille Marchese, this year a record volume of 1,048 applicants eagerly competed for the limited number of spaces available – just 240 openings. When hired, Marchese was determined to concentrate on a more concise number of artists, which she explains, “allows for a finer quality of unique and innovative art to see, experience, and to acquire.” 

In making the announcement, Marchese excitedly exclaimed, “We’re back! The Coconut Grove Arts Festival is once again among the top 10 outdoor art shows in the country!” She noted that the unprecedented number of applications received speaks volumes about the growing reputation of the festival – and is a clear gauge of the success of this show and its standing in the nationwide arts community.