John Pirman’s Guide to Sarasota

John Pirman, renowned illustrator and friend of the brand, graciously welcomed us into his Sarasota, Florida home, designed by renowned Sarasota School Architect Tim Seibert, during our recent March catalog shoot. John’s distinctive style, influenced by mid-century modern aesthetics, has left an indelible mark on projects ranging from souvenir postcards at MoMA to the rebranding of iconic series like The Mary Tyler Moore Show for Nick at Nite. J. McLaughlin devotees will recognize John's prints from collections of tops and swimwear, as well as the cover of J. McLaughlin catalogs. With a career that began in New York City as a freelance illustrator, John's architectural compositions, originally crafted from primitive paper cutouts, have graced the pages of Vogue, The New York Times, and The Economist. His love for Sarasota, ignited by childhood visits and later vacations, ultimately led him to call it home in 2008, where his passion for the area's architectural heritage continues to thrive with his involvement in Architecture Sarasota- an organization that champions the teaching and preservation of Sarasota’s many historic structures.

John’s Must-Visit Spots in Sarasota

Selby Botanical Gardens - Vibrant flora from around the world thrive in serene gardens and several glass conservatories. Wander through tropical landscapes and experience the tranquility of this botanical oasis in Sarasota.

The Bay - A waterfront park for all, offering a mix of recreational activities, cultural events, scenic views, and dining experiences.

New Sarasota Art Museum - Housed in a historic 1920s gothic revival school building, the museum is a space for pioneering contemporary art exhibitions and programs.

Ringling Museum - A cultural gem of Sarasota, The Ringling Art Museum is home to an impressive and eclectic collection of artwork- from masterpieces to circus memorabilia, all nestled within its expansive grounds and many architectural wonders.

Jungle Gardens - Features over 200 species of exotic plants and animals- including John’s often featured flamingos. Explore the winding pathways and hand-feed friendly birds- just watch your fingers!

Umbrella House - So named because of it’s striking umbrella-like canopies- this mid-century marvel is just one of several buildings in the area designed by Paul Rudolph.