Our Story
Founded in 1975 by a passionate group of local artists in Fernandina Beach, Florida, the Island Art Association (IAA) has been a cornerstone of the community's artistic expression. The first gallery, known as "The Upstairs Gallery," opened in 1979, marking the beginning of a vibrant journey. In 1982, the IAA was formally established with a mission to foster an appreciation for the arts in Nassau County. Over the years, the IAA has evolved, moving to a new location in 2001 and transforming an old restaurant into a thriving art gallery and community hub. By 2010, the IAA proudly opened its Art Education Center, further solidifying its commitment to the arts.