Polk State debuts robust arts schedule for spring 2026
Polk State College will pull back the curtains on an exciting season of musical performances, theatrical productions and art exhibitions this Sunday with the first event: The Chain O’ Lakes Big Band’s “This Could Be…
Polk State graduate bound for prestigious music school in Boston
When Mason Jenkins was just 3 years old, his parents found him playing the drums with pots and pans from the cabinet. Now a member of Polk State College’s 133rd commencement class, Jenkins has been…
Polk State Photography Professor serves as visionary leader
Polk State Professor of Photography Sarah Brewington Baarns has spent nearly two decades turning creative instinct into a multifaceted career that spans corporate studios, fine-art galleries and the classroom. Her trajectory is a master class…
Polk State’s “darkroom renaissance” brings students back to the basics
The Black and White Photography class at Polk State College is far more than its name suggests. This foundational film course is a gateway to mastering the art and science of photography, offering students hands-on…
Polk State celebrates Arts and Humanities Month
As the calendar turns to October, Polk State College is recognizing the importance of culture throughout the local community by celebrating National Arts and Humanities Month. Established in 1993, National Arts and Humanities Month is…
Polk State Music alum performs worldwide after getting start at collegiate high school
Now a professional musician who has performed across the globe, Ryan Michael James was a high school junior when he enrolled at Polk State Chain of Lakes Collegiate High School and took courses in the…
The Arts at Polk State offers robust schedule of fall events for fall
The Arts at Polk State College has a newly enhanced venue with an upgraded theatre and gallery. For the Fall 2025 Semester, it will have a robust slate of events. Throughout the fall, Polk State…
Polk State student and employee’s passion for The Arts brings department together
When Tori Cunningham arrived at Polk State College, she didn’t think her passion for art would ever be more than a hobby. After spending time at the College as a student and a part-time employee,…
Professor Tom Witek elevates Polk State Music with real-world expertise
Tom Witek has played thousands of jazz gigs, toured internationally and even appeared on American Horror Story. But his favorite audience these days? His students at Polk State College. After more than a decade as…
Polk State Theatre returns after two years of renovations with expertly curated season
After a transformative renovation, the Polk State Winter Haven Fine Arts Theatre is preparing to welcome audiences back to its revitalized theatre with an exciting 2025-2026 season. The revamped venue, boasting enhanced acoustics, modernized seating,…