Art exhibits, classes, workshops and demonstrations for everyone

—You can’t miss the large purple building with its iconic mural of Morro Rock in downtown Morro Bay. Art Center Morro Bay is home to all artists and the community. Visitors have enjoyed art exhibits and other art-related activities offered by this nonprofit, volunteer-run association since its early art shows in 1951. With a wide variety of classes, workshops, and other art-related events, Art Center Morro Bay is a destination for emerging and professional exhibitors and art collectors who appreciate compelling exhibits filled with a vast array of quality art.

Art all year

Art Center Morro Bay presents eight exhibits per year with two spacious galleries and a classroom. Special juried exhibits have included the Pastel Society of the West Coast, featuring award-winning, national and international artists.

At the beginning of April, the exhibit will be “Your Outer Limits” with a retro nod to the 50s. In May, the Central Coast Artists Collective will be exhibiting Photography, Sculpture, and Crafts.

Classes, workshops, and demonstrations

Free demonstrations by talented artists are presented on the second Monday of each month from 3 -5 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

Adult art classes and workshops are offered throughout the year, and summer art camp is designed for children over six years. Drop-in figure drawing is offered every Wednesday evening from 6-9 p.m. for a minimal fee to cover the cost of the model.  Fine art classes and workshops may include, plein-air painting, portrait painting, sketching, and digital drawing. Craft classes include clay sculpture and jewelry.

Classes are available throughout the year so check the website regularly.

A history of art and community

Beginning in 1951, seventeen artists met in local homes, hanging their paintings on neighborhood trees, using whatever space was available for shows. The association acquired its current home in 1971 and has become an integral part of the community since opening its doors.

Art Center Morro Bay works with local high schools and the Cuesta College Art Department to provide internship programs and scholarships to deserving youths. The MBAA established and is still responsible for the three annual summer Morro Bay Art in the Parks, the second-oldest park show in California!

A board-of-directors-operated, member-supported nonprofit organization, Art Center Morro Bay is completely operated by volunteers. Members are the heart of the organization and membership is open to all. Visit the website to join.

Art Center Morro Bay is located at 835 Main St., Morro Bay, CA, open 12-4 p.m. daily. For more information call (805) 772-2504 or visit artcentermorrobay.org.