2025-02-26
From the HART
Celebrating Art and Community at Camp Margaritaville Auburndale
At Camp Margaritaville Auburndale, we believe paradise is about more than palm trees and frozen drinks – it’s about the people and experiences that bring joy to our community. That’s why we’re thrilled to partner with local artists Caroline and Laurie Hart of Hart Art, whose vibrant work and inspiring story add so much color and heart to our slice of paradise.
A Journey of Love and Creativity
Caroline and Laurie, partners in life and art, are full-time creators whose work is inspired by everything from Jimmy Buffett tunes to Florida’s natural beauty. Caroline, originally from England, found her love for the arts as a child, while Laurie, a Massachusetts native, transitioned from wedding photography to creating colorful, imaginative pieces from reclaimed wood. Together, this talented duo merges their unique skills and passions into Hart Art, a brand born from love, adventure, and a shared vision of joy.
Since making Florida their home in 2019, the Harts have become cherished members of the local creative community. Their motto is simple but powerful – “Margarita vibes,” a phrase that embodies their goal of spreading joy through their art much like Jimmy Buffett did through his music.
A Grand Celebration of Creativity
The grand opening of the HART Gallery at Camp Margaritaville Auburndale was a true celebration of community and creativity. Friends, family, local residents, resort campers, and team members all gathered to support and honor Caroline and Laurie Hart on this exciting milestone in their artistic journey. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a heartfelt moment filled with cheers, applause, and words of gratitude as the Harts expressed their appreciation for the Camp Margaritaville team and everyone who made their dream a reality. The crowd’s excitement and energy made it clear that this wasn’t just an opening – it was a celebration of two talented women whose art has touched the hearts of so many.
The HART Gallery – Highlighting Original Art and a Love for Manatees
February 20th marked an exciting milestone for both the Harts and Camp Margaritaville Auburndale – the grand opening of the HART Gallery. Nestled in the heart of the resort, the gallery is open seven days a week and welcomes guests to explore their tropical-inspired creations. From whimsical paintings of mermaids and pirates to works that honor manatees, the gallery’s collection truly captures paradise on canvas.
One standout feature of the gallery is the Save the Manatee wall, a tribute to the Harts’ dedication to conservation. Featuring manatee-inspired art and information about adopting these gentle creatures, the wall represents their ongoing partnership with Save the Manatee Club, a nonprofit co-founded by Jimmy Buffett himself. It’s another beautiful example of how the Harts use their platform to give back to the community they love.
Guests can also take home a piece of paradise! You can purchase Hart Art’s stunning creations in person at the HART Gallery or conveniently through the Camp Margaritaville Auburndale mobile app. Bring a tropical touch into your space and support their artistic vision.
Join the Fun with Sip & Paint Events
Art lovers and budding creatives alike can get in on the action at Hart Art’s monthly Sip & Paint classes at the resort. Led by Caroline and Laurie, these workshops are perfect for date nights, girls’ nights out, or solo outings. Beginners are welcome – the Harts provide pre-sketched canvases, guidance, and plenty of encouragement. And, of course, there’s always the option to sip a margarita or two as you paint!
The themes change every month, and participants can create their own masterpiece to take home – a true piece of Margaritaville-inspired fun. Plus, private Sip & Paint events are available, making it easy to host a creative celebration at the resort.
SEE OUR NEXT SIP AND PAINT EVENT
Paradise Market – Art, Connection, and Community
Visitors and locals alike can also catch Hart Art at Camp Margaritaville Auburndale’s Paradise Market, held on select dates throughout the year. This indoor market is a hub for local businesses and artisans, offering unique finds alongside great food and drinks. For the Harts, it’s the perfect way to connect with the community and share their passion for art with shoppers from all walks of life.
"When we first joined the Paradise Market, we knew we had found a home for our style of art," says Laurie. “We love hearing the stories of those who stop by and seeing people light up when they connect with one of our pieces.”
For those who can’t make it to Camp Margaritaville, Hart Art also offers a selection of prints through their online store, making it easy to bring a little piece of Florida paradise into your home.
SEE OUR UPCOMING PARADISE MARKETS
Honoring Jimmy Buffett through Art and Giving
On National Jimmy Buffett Day, Camp Margaritaville Auburndale came alive with creativity and community spirit as Hart Art hosted a one-of-a-kind painting event. Guests from near and far contributed their own artistic flair to a collaborative “cheeseburger in paradise” painting, each adding a piece to the masterpiece. Participation came with a heartfelt purpose – all donations from the activity went directly to KidsPack Inc., aiding the fight against childhood hunger. This unique, hands-on experience truly celebrated Jimmy Buffett’s legacy of joy and generosity, leaving everyone with a sense of connection, warmth, and the knowledge they had made a difference together.
Live the Margaritaville Life with the Harts
Caroline and Laurie Hart aren’t just artists – they’re storytellers and community builders who pour their hearts into every canvas. Whether you’re exploring the HART Gallery, getting creative at Sip & Paint, or stopping by the Paradise Market, you’ll feel their passion for art and love for life in everything they do.
At Camp Margaritaville Auburndale, we’re proud to call the Harts a part of our family. Their art is more than decoration – it’s an experience that lets us all escape to a world filled with good vibes, bold colors, and a little bit of magic.
We invite you to visit the HART Gallery, sign up for a Sip & Paint class, or swing by the Paradise Market to enjoy their work. Whether you leave with a new piece of art or just a smile, you’ll feel the real meaning of what it’s like to live with a little “Margarita vibe” in your heart.
For more information on Hart Art, visit Camp Margaritaville Auburndale’s app or follow them on Instagram @hartart2021. See you in paradise!
