The Hermitage Artist Retreat is situated along Manasota Key, a barrier island on the shores of Englewood, Florida.

What is now a peaceful, beachside “escape-to-create” residence for global artists began as a simple homestead for a family of immigrants building a new life.

Dubbed The Sea Island Sanctuary, the short-lived nudist colony charged a monthly membership rate of $45.

1936 advertised: “The isolation of our location permits the practice of nudism 24 hours a day if desired; also one may stroll nude for miles along the shores of the gulf.

A guest house was added by Louise Plummer in 1937, while a separate retreat adjacent to Hermitage property was built by Alfred Whitney.

[7] Sarasota architect Bob Town undertook the renovation of the historic buildings under the funding and leadership of the Arts Council.

[8] Today, The Hermitage survives as a dedicated place for artists from all over the globe to seek inspiration and practice their craft.