Richmond Art Center Richmond Art Center

Dive into mixed media and exhibit your work in our galleries

Dive into mixed media and exhibit your work in our galleries

We love showcasing student artwork! Create some mixed media magic in these fall classes and see your work featured in our galleries this winter. Learn more…

Oceanic Adventures with Acrylics and Mixed Media

Thursdays, 10am-12:30pm, September 12 – October 17
Teaching Artist: Jennifer Linderman
Capacity: 11 Students

Immerse yourself in a magical underwater world as you learn to paint a vibrant array of sea creatures using acrylics and mixed media techniques.

Learn more…

Floral Expressions in Pastels

Tuesdays, 10am-12:30pm
October 1 – November 19
Teaching Artist: Jennifer Linderman
Capacity: 11 Students

Unleash your inner flower power with the possibilities of pastels. We’ll use floral arrangements to explore techniques to make different pastel media sing.

Learn more…

East Bay Times: Richmond Art Center has opened a new exhibit

Weblink: https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2024/09/10/snapp-shots-east-bays-bishop-emeritus-cummins-celebrating-50-years/

East Bay Times

Snapp Shots: Richmond Art Center has opened a new exhibit

Cont.

Richmond: “Sentinels & Saviors: Iconic Avatars” is a new exhibition on display at the Richmond Art Center now through Nov. 21 (richmondartcenter.org/exhibitions/sentinels-saviors), featuring the work of Oakland artists Kim Thoman and Joell Jones.

They say their goal is to encourage viewers to pay closer attention to themselves, their thoughts and their feelings. Neither artist is engaged in psychoanalysis or art therapy, but both bodies of work can be seen as avatars allowing for inner work of the heart and mind — a common theme of the two artists.

Jones’ large grouping of small paintings, called “Saviors,” invites you to follow her imagery as she connects to her unconscious.

“Those early months of the (COVID-19 pandemic) lockdown were used for self-exploration,” she says. “Pretending to be on a Buddhist retreat — something I had always wanted to do but never seemed to find the time — I spent the days observing my thoughts.

“Gradually, I became aware of a hidden pattern of behavior, a pattern unconsciously hardwired since childhood.”

Thoman’s art works, called “Sentinels,” integrate steel sculptures with oil paintings. They evolved from her wanting what she calls “protection” when she was recovering from uterine cancer, and the works were conceived during her chemo treatments.

“It was while my body was being wasted (and also ‘cured’) by the chemo, I felt the need for help to maintain my energy, a positive mood, a willingness to keep moving — all I’m putting in the category of ‘protection,’ ” she says.

“I never felt the effects of the cancer but was shocked at the ‘scorched earth’ aspect of chemo. I knew, of course, that chemo wasn’t going to kill me, but honestly there were days I didn’t care.

“But I don’t mean to complain. I’m one of the lucky ones. I know many have it much worse, and I’m 10 years cancer-free. I hope my ‘Sentinels’ might shine a light on others who also struggle with medical issues and, sometimes, the effects of the ‘cure.’ ”

Martin Snapp can be reached at catman442@comcast.net.

Image: Kim Thoman’s “Sentinel No. 6” is one of the art works on display in “Sentinels & Saviors: Iconic Avatars,” a new exhibition at the Richmond Art Center.

 

Loom alert! Two new weaving classes added to our fall class lineup

Loom alert! Two new weaving classes added to our fall class lineup

Weaving Curious: An Intro to Floor Looms

Thursdays, 5:30pm-8:30pm, September 26 – November 14
Teaching Artist: Laurie Kelsoe
Capacity: 6 Students

This class will introduce students to the joys of weaving. Students will learn how to weave basic weave structures and how to read a pattern. Students will also learn how to wind a warp, dress their loom, as well as basic color theories. This class is perfect for absolute beginners, or students wanting to start from scratch with a refresher course on the technical side of weaving on floor looms.

LEARN MORE…

Floor Loom Weaving 102: Techniques for Beginner to Intermediate Students

Thursdays, 12pm-3pm, September 26 – November 14
Teaching Artist: Laurie Kelsoe
Capacity: 6 Students

Floor Loom Weaving 102: Techniques for Beginner to Intermediate Students
Dive deeper into weaving! This class is for students who have taken at least one floor loom class and know how to dress a loom. Students will choose their own patterns and designs, and are encouraged to explore different weaving techniques including pile, soumak, and weft interlocking.

LEARN MORE…

Press Release: Lucha Libre, Día de los Muertos, and—of course—plenty of Art-Making Fun

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, September 5, 2024

Richmond, CA: Richmond Art Center announces two special events to celebrate the fall season with dance, drama, and plenty of art-making fun.

Right Here, Right Now – Sunset Social

Friday, September 20, 5pm-8pm | FREE ENTRY
Richmond Art Center, 2540 Barrett Avenue, Richmond, CA
EVENT WEBPAGE

Let’s gather at sunset for art and community as we bid farewell to summer. Richmond Art Center’s courtyard and galleries will be transformed into a space for celebrating the artists featured in Right Here, Right Now, Richmond with art-making, music, and more.

Meet the Oasis Pro Lucha Libre Wrestlers, and view Anthony Delgado‘s photography capturing them in action. Participate in a Richmond-themed art project led by artist Quinn Keck, and watch live screen printing by Art Hazelwood. Enjoy custom cocktails by The Factory Bar and light bites from local food vendors, all set to a soundtrack by DJ Graham LP.

It’s not often we open our galleries after dark – don’t miss it!

Día de los Muertos: Fall Family Day

Saturday, October 19, 12pm-3pm  | FREE
Richmond Art Center, 2540 Barrett Avenue, Richmond, CA
EVENT WEBPAGE


Join us for a celebration of Día de los Muertos at Richmond Art Center. Our courtyard and galleries will come alive with art-making, music, and a live performance by Danza Azteca Teokalli.

This free event is open to kids of all ages and their families. Artists and activities include a community Mural with Luis García, repujado with Rachel-Anne Palacios, lavender smudge offering, and more.

No RSVP is needed—just bring your creativity and festive spirit!

Accessibility and Parking: Ample free parking is available in the 25th Street lot across the street from Richmond Art Center. The facility is accessible to wheelchair users via the Barrett Avenue entrance, adjacent to a parking lot with six accessible spaces. Parking and Entrance Map

About Richmond Art Center: Richmond Art Center has been sharing art and creating with the community since 1936. Our programs encompass classes, exhibitions, and events at our facility in downtown Richmond, as well as off-site activities that bring free, high-quality art-making experiences to WCCUSD schools and community partners. richmondartcenter.org
 
For more information and images contact:
Amy Spencer, amy@richmondartcenter.org

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The Richmond Standard: Richmond Art Center features pro wrestlers, upcycled art and more

Weblink: https://richmondstandard.com/richmond/2024/09/05/richmond-art-center-features-pro-wrestlers-upcycled-art-and-more/

The Richmond Standard

Richmond Art Center features pro wrestlers, upcycled art and more

By Kathy Chouteau

September exhibitions at the Richmond Art Center (RAC) will see artistic inspiration derived from a variety of extraordinary sources, including Oasis Pro Lucha Libre wrestlers and Coastal Cleanup Day.

An Opening Reception will kick off the month of exhibitions at the RAC this Saturday, Sept. 7 from 1-3 p.m. in an event that’s free to attend. The afternoon of art will include Right Here, Right Now, Richmond—showcasing the work of Anthony Delgado, Art Hazelwood, e bond, Erin McCluskey Wheeler, Helia Pouyanfar, Quinn Keck and Taro Hattori. The exhibition celebrates the visionary art and ideas of local artists in Richmond, according to the RAC. Also up for exploration will be Sentinels & SaviorsAbi Mustapha: Recent Work and The Art of Sumi-e. An RSVP is not necessary for the Opening Reception.

Next up, on Friday, Sept. 20 from 5-8 p.m. will be a rare chance to not only mingle with the aforementioned Right Here, Right Now, Richmond artists after dark, but also meet the Oasis Pro Lucha Libre wrestlers who are the photographic subjects of Anthony Delgado’s exhibition. Adding to the revelry will be a Richmond-themed art project led by artist Quinn Keck, cocktails from The Factory Bar, light bites from local food vendors and a soundtrack by DJ Graham LP. Admission is free and RSVPs aren’t needed.

Inspiration for art is everywhere, you just need to find it. Driving home this point will be artist Erin McCluskey Wheeler, who invites the community to join her at the “40th Annual Coastal Cleanup Day” Saturday, Sept. 21 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Shimada Friendship Park in Richmond to collect beach litter to use in her mixed media artwork. “Join Erin in finding artistic inspiration while contributing to the cleanup of Shimada Friendship Park’s shoreline,” said the RAC. Registration is required.

Art of the African Diaspora – Zoom Info Session

Art of the African Diaspora – Zoom Info Session

Are you interested in participating in Art of The African Diaspora? New artists, as well as past participants seeking a refresher, are invited to attend a zoom info session to learn about the 2025 program. Read the artist guidelines and come prepared with your questions.

Art of the African Diaspora ZOOM INFO SESSION

Saturday, August 31, 1pm-2pm

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82451380102?pwd=Cg2zWCNuIaNSRaanVt8jWGlJAAVEKW.1

Note, this info session is hosted by the AOTAD Steering Committee. If you have questions please contact them at aotadexhibition@gmail.com (Richmond Art Center is closed 8/31 for Labor Day Weekend).

Image: Artwork by Deborah Butler

 

A Message from the Executive Director

A Message from the Executive Director

Hello Friends,

Two exciting programs launching this fall. First, join me in welcoming Andres Serrano as our new artist-in-residence. Andres, a lifelong Richmond resident, brings a ceramics practice that explores themes of queerness, home, and culture. Additionally, the third iteration of the Right Here, Right Now, Richmond Biennial will open in our main gallery, showcasing the talents of seven local artists.

Both the residency and the biennial are made possible through funding from the National Endowment for the Arts. We are immensely proud to receive this national recognition for programs that uplift and celebrate local artists.

Are you a local artist or a creative at heart? I encourage you to explore our fall offerings—whether it’s by signing up for a class, applying to participate in the Holiday Arts Festival, registering for Art of the African Diaspora, or just getting messy at Fall Family Day. We hope that Richmond Art Center can support and inspire your creative journey.

Looking forward to seeing you soon,

José R. Rivera

Top image: e bond installing her work with assistance from fellow exhibiting artist Erin McCluskey Wheeler. Come see their work when ‘Right Here, Right Now, Richmond’ opens on September 4.

Ricmondside: What’s Up: Labor Day weekend

Weblink: https://richmondside.org/2024/08/29/richmond-ca-events-calendar-aug-29/

Richmondside

What’s Up: Labor Day weekend music, trivia night, miniature golf

Shows open at Richmond Art Center, weekly pub trivia nights, Latin America Independence parade.

by David Mills

Aug. 29, 2024, 6:00 a.m.

Hello Richmondside readers. Here are some highlights of things to do and know this coming week and beyond. Monday is Labor Day so you can expect city and other government offices and banks to be closed. If you’re looking for something for fun to do over the long weekend, head to Baltic Kiss in Point Richmond where you’ll find a five-day lineup of music and comedy. Later next week, you can view inspiring artwork, attend a neighborhood meeting or learn about fraud prevention.

For additional events, check our calendar and be sure to add your own listings as well.

Community-based exhibits open Sept. 4 at Richmond Art Center

Four new exhibits open Fri., Sept. 4 at the Richmond Art Center, 2540 Barrett Ave.

The works will be on view from Sept. 4 to Nov. 21. The art center galleries are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays. An opening reception will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Thur., Sept. 7.

The “Right Here, Right Now” Richmond-inspired exhibit features artists Anthony Delgado, Art Hazelwood, e bond, Erin McCluskey Wheeler, Helia Pouyanfar, Quinn Keck and Taro Hattori.

Much of the artwork reflects the Richmond community and some of the issues it is facing such as trash along the shoreline and the experiences of refugees.

An exhibit of two artists’ works designed to help inspire as well as guide people through turbulent times also opens that day at the Richmond Art Center’s South Gallery.

The “Sentinels & Saviors: Iconic Avatars” exhibit showcases two Oakland artists, Joell Jones and Kim Thoman with a goal to “remind us to pay attention to our inner lives and those avatars or symbols of our own choosing that can be our signposts giving guidance and encouragement,” according to the art center.

Jones’ work captures her “adventure into her unconscious or inner self.” It is “made safe” by Thoman’s work that portrays “guardians standing strong.”

A work by Oakland artist Joell Jones on view starting Sept. 4 at the Richmond Art Center.

“I have painted a woman engaged in a struggle for transformation, and my paintings portray her as a fluid, shape-shifting creature adrift in liminal environments,” Jones said in a press release.

Thoman’s work was inspired by her recovery from cancer.

“I decided I’d like an army of bodyguards for protection in this life,” Thoman said.

Also opening are “Abi Mustapha: Recent Work,” by Sierra Leonean/American contemporary artist Abi Mustapha of Santa Cruz, and a student showcase of Japanese ink brush paintings from Fumiyo Yoshikawa’s beginner sumi-e class at Richmond Art Center. Sumi-e is a traditional East Asian painting technique that uses black ink (sumi) on paper.

 

 

Press Release: Introducing four new exhibitions this fall

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, August 19, 2024

Introducing four new exhibitions this fall

Right Here, Right Now: A Biennial of Richmond Art  |  Sentinels & Saviors
Abi Mustapha: Recent Work  |  The Art of Sumi-e


September 4 – November 21
Opening Reception: Saturday, September 7, 1pm-3pm

Richmond Art Center, 2540 Barrett Avenue, Richmond, CA 94804
Gallery Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm
Exhibitions and events are all free and no rsvp is necessary


Richmond, CA: This fall, Richmond Art Center’s galleries will showcase a dynamic range of art, spanning innovative local visions and ideas, to traditional Japanese ink paintings, and beyond.

In the Main Gallery, Right Here, Right Now, Richmond celebrates local artists’ innovative work. Now in its third iteration, this biennial exhibition features new work by Anthony DelgadoArt Hazelwood, e bondErin McCluskey WheelerHelia PouyanfarQuinn Keck, and Taro Hattori, reflecting on Richmond’s history, environment, and vibrant communities.

“As the artists created new work for this show, a theme to emerge is ‘home’ in its many forms—physical, cultural, and emotional,” says Roberto Martinez, the biennial’s curator. “Maybe it’s obvious, but in a rapidly changing city, home is always worth exploring.”

READ MORE ABOUT THE BIENNIAL…

Also opening at Richmond Art Center this fall are three more exhibitions:

  • Sentinels & Saviors: Iconic Avatars presents work by Joell Jones and Kim Thoman, who create space for introspection. Jones’ paintings explore a woman’s journey into self-discovery through pictorial art. Thoman presents abstract steel figures inspired by Chinese Terracotta Warriors, symbolizing guardianship and protection during her illness recovery.
  • Abi Mustapha‘s solo exhibition shares her new series of paintings that fuse portraiture with vibrant botanical landscapes. Mustapha states, “My hope is to elicit a sense of reverence for the magic of our interconnectedness.”
  • Finally, the Community Gallery will feature The Art of Sumi-e, showcasing Japanese ink brush paintings by students from Fumiyo Yoshikawa‘s beginner sumi-e class at Richmond Art Center, along with works by Sensei Yoshikawa herself.

An Opening Reception for all exhibitions will be held on Saturday, September 7, from 1pm to 3pm. All are welcome to attend.

Richmond Art Center will be open late on Friday, September 20, from 5pm to 8pm for a Sunset Social. The courtyard and galleries will be transformed into a space for celebrating the artists featured in Right Here, Right Now with performances, live art demonstrations, and more. It’s not often we open our galleries after dark – don’t miss it!

Richmond Art Center is located at 2540 Barrett Avenue, Richmond, CA 94804. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10am to 4pm. Admission is free.

About Richmond Art Center: Richmond Art Center has been sharing art and creating with the community since 1936. Our programs encompass classes, exhibitions and events at our facility in downtown Richmond, as well as off-site activities that bring free, high-quality art making experiences to WCCUSD schools and community partners. richmondartcenter.org

Right Here, Right Now is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts.


Top image: Abi Mustapha, Dionaea, 2024, 30″ x 24″, Oil and Acrylic on Canvas
 
For more information and images contact:
Amy Spencer, amy@richmondartcenter.org
 

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Visit and Contact

Richmond Art Center
2540 Barrett Avenue
Richmond, CA 94804-1600

 

Contact and Visitor Info
Gallery Hours: Wed-Sat 10am-4pm