mendocino art center

For a place with a population of less than 1,000 it's astonishing Mendocino can host a major annual music festival, a renowned annual film festival, have a vibrant local theatre - and host this very impressive Art Center. In summer months in particular there are open days and events, but throughout the year there are exhibitions and a varied display of art. Definitely worth a visit even if you're in Mendocino only for the weekend.

I believe the best times (and exhibits) are during the summer months, when artists present their works to the buyers, uh tourists. We came in mid October.My princess, who's a semi-professional artist, spent time outside in the garden, and was impressed with the placement of sculpture, and the interaction between natural and man made contributions.When I pressed her to be critical, she admitted the interaction between artists and visitors was minimal, compared to other galleries and art centers that she's visited. I have to agree, there were two clerks manning the front desk. One was constantly slamming the metal cabinet (which disturbed the silent gallery), and another clerk was a bit stuffy.Most of the artists' galleries were closed. Occasionally you'd see a painter behind a closed door. I understand the need for privacy.I did purchase a handmade journal for my son. Its leaves are made of fine paper, with actual leaves imprinted upon them. He will like it.We didn't rush our visit here. But we didn't leave with too many memories, either.

We were impressed with the variety of quality art and crafts. There were a couple of featured artists with displays. This is a great place to see quality and to purchase all types of art and crafts.

I wish I had been in town early enough on the Saturday I got there, as it was the final day of the Open Plein Air Festival, and all the artwork submitted by all the participants was up on the walls. As it was, 75% of it was gone by the time I got there on Sunday morning, but you could see what I missed!

While on a recent trip up the north coast of California, we stopped at Medocino for a few days. The whole town is worthy of a five-star review, but we especially enjoyed the Mendocino Art Center. It features artists from the Mendocino area (both living and historical), has two great galleries of local artists, and has beautifully crafted, unique gift items (most of which you'll want to keep for yourself). The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, and we came away knowing much more about the tradition of north coast artists and craftspeople. It's free, but a small donation is always appreciated. They've also got a knockout garden with a cafe, and for the price of a cup of coffee you can sit and look at CA natives (the plants, and your fellow patrons).

Visiting the center is worth one's time to see many local artists' works since there is such a rich variety of media from ceramics to paintings. Don't miss walking around the grounds to also see some whimsical sculptures.

When in Mendocino be sure to check out a performance at the Mendocino Art Center. We were there in early August 2014 and we're fortunate to see a wonderful performance of The Graduate. The production was wonderful and a highlight golf our visit. Highly Recommended!

My husband and I made a trip down the Pacific Coast Highway from Seattle to San Diego. Mendocino has some very nice shopping options. The art shops are a highlight of local talent. The art center was well worth spending extra time there!

Something for everyone. This is a worthwhile place to visit whenever you're in town as the offerings of jewelry, clothing, oils, silks, pottery, ironworks and more changes. Some of the pieces are truly world class.

A great collection of fine art by local artisans. We're not talking arts and crafts these are wonderful works of art on display.

You should come here if only for the magnificent gardens full of art. This is an art school and gallery. All is welcome. It's very close to Main Street. Very much worth the walk up the street. Stop by.

Five or six years ago we chanced on this -- it's a big, varied gallery of local artists with changing shows; much of the art is impressive, thoughtful, compelling, no matter what your taste is. Nice store as well, and nice folks at the front desk.

Wonderful art and incredible prices! The volunteers were very helpful in with information about artists.

This art center is staffed by the artists themselves, apparently as part of the requirements for membership in the art colony. The pieces on display change frequently, with 1-person shows. Many artists, using many different media, styles and themes make this place a great experience. On sunny days, the garden, filled with whimsical sculptures of rock, steel and other materials, many of them permanent fixtures, is great fun. The pieces are situated amidst flowers and shrubs, often half-hidden to be found. This isn't a half-baked little tourist trap - Mendocino doesn't seem to have many if any of those - It's an art center of some quality. Probably not for young children (unless they're inclined to art), but teens will find many things of interest here. Allow an hour or so. Most items are for sale, many of them at very reasonable prices.

We enjoyed visiting this local gem. The sculptures, paintings, and jewelry are all very unique and interesting.