Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County Celebrates Anchors Away Artistic Anchor Preview

Disclaimer: We are promoting this event on behalf of a local chamber member. This event is not managed or sponsored by the Destin Chamber.



The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) invites the community to a festive evening at the Shipyard Marina at 116 Shipyard Rd. on Thursday, Sept. 18,, from 6 - 9 p.m., for the “Anchors Away” artistic anchor preview event. This free, family-friendly gathering provides a sneak peek of the first round of completed artist-decorated anchors from the “Anchored in Freeport” creative placemaking project, a new extension of the CAA’s Art in Public Spaces program.  

Attendees can enjoy live music by The Typos, a five-piece band known for their dynamic performances and diverse setlist. Big Mike’s Smokehouse on Wheels will be on-site offering delicious food, Kona Ice will have cold treats for kids, and there will be an artist meet & greet, providing an opportunity to connect with the creators behind the anchor artwork. 

The event marks the first opportunity for the public to view some of the custom 4.5-foot concrete anchors, cast by Bill Roberts at Castaways in Freeport, and an opportunity to support the installation through local fundraising efforts. Each anchor is being transformed into a unique work of art by a local artist.

Participating artists include Francisco Adaro, Gisselle Barnhart, Katherine Boggs, Kendall Boggs, Estelle Grengs, Wes Hinds, Sarah Page and Andy Saczyinski. Sponsored by local businesses, each anchor will be installed in the sponsor-designated location and a dedication ceremony will be held in October at Freeport City Hall.

The Anchored in Freeport project is part of CAA’s broader Art in Public Spaces program, which also includes the nation’s first Underwater Museum of Art, the Watersound® Monarch Art Trail, and the U.S. Highway 98 Pedestrian Underpass - all designed to enhance the cultural landscape of Walton County. 

This initiative is the result of a creative collaboration between the Cultural Arts Alliance and the City of Freeport, with generous support from anchor sponsors, including Christ the King Church, City of Freeport, The Jay Odom Group, DR Horton, Eglin Federal Credit Union, Emerald Coast Title Services, Nelkin Real Estate, and Walton County Tourism. Additional support is provided by Friends of the Anchor, including Gulf Coast Insulation, Shipyard Marina and Newman-Dailey Resort Properties.