The Canadian Friends is a special group of donors who support, promote and celebrate the mission of Artis—Naples.
Canadian Friends enliven the strong relationship between Southwest Florida and Canada and help introduce premier Canadian visual and performing artists to Naples. Canadian Friends support Artis—Naples with an annual gift of $1,600 or above and enjoy all associated Leadership Circle benefits as well as exclusive Canadian Friends events and access to reserved seating. For more details, we invite you to review our Canadian Friends brochure.
2023-24 Season Events
Canadian Friends receive exclusive invitations to exciting events.
Formal invitations to follow closer to event dates.
Canadian Friends have access to reserved ticket blocks for all events on the Canadian Friends season calendar. Please contact VIP concierge, at 239-254-2617 to purchase your tickets. We encourage you to book seats as soon as possible. Tickets will be held up to two to three weeks prior to the performance. Please also RSVP to receptions by contacting Jason LoRusso, senior major gifts officer, at 239-254-2670.
Friday, January 26, 5:30–7pm
Pre-Performance Reception
Masterworks Death and Transfiguration
Join fellow Canadian Friends on the Baird Terrace for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres ahead of the Naples Philharmonic performance of Death and Transfiguration led by Conductor Alexander Shelley and featuring Canadian Violinist Blake Pouliot. Attendees are encouraged to attend the 7pm prelude in Hayes Hall to hear more from Alexander Shelley, Artistic and Music Director Designate, during an insightful 30-minute conversation before the concert.
Thursday, February 29, 5:30–7pm
Canadian Friends Annual Reception
Celebrate the 2023-24 season (and leap day!) with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres at the home of generous hosts and Canadian Friends Ambassadors Susan Glass and Arni Thorsteinson.
Tuesday, April 9, 6–8pm
Private Tour
George Gershwin and Modern Art: A Rhapsody in Blue
Join Canadian Friends for our final event of the season, set to include a private tour of George Gershwin and Modern Art: A Rhapsody in Blue, led by The Baker Museum Director and Chief Curator, Courtney A. McNeil. Following the tour, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served on the Baird Terrace for a beautiful sunset view to toast the season!