Upcoming events.

The Stanislaus Art Exchange Exhibition Reception & Artist Talks
You are invited to join us at the Stanislaus Arts Council Gallery at 1315 J Street, in Modesto, on Saturday, February 15, 2025 from 2 to 5 PM for the CSU Stanislaus BFA Student Artists’ Reception & Artist Talks.
Sweet Treats will be provided by Mocha Magic.
Admission is FREE, donations are always appreciated.
We hope you come join us!
Support the Arts. Promote Creativity. Elevate Community.

Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund Informational Webinar
The Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund (PAEPF) grant program will be opening in Early March, and now is the time to get ready. Learn more about the program https://www.caforthearts.org/paepf-program
Join us February 12, 2025 for an informational webinar to learn about eligibility requirements and how you can apply. There will be a series of these webinars held during February, all of the webinars will cover the same material and include a Q&A period. You are welcome to attend any session.
The Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund (PAEPF) is funded by the State of California and administered by CalOSBA. Eligibility criteria applies.

“Celebration in Black” pop-up exhibition celebrating Black History Month at Gallo Center for the Arts
"Celebration in Black" pop-up exhibition at Gallo Center for the Arts celebrating Black History Month from February 5 to March 2, 2025. The GCA lobby is open to the public from 10 to 6 PM Monday through Friday, and 12 to 6 PM on Saturday.


Dia de los Muertos Exhibition Final Day
The Stanislaus Arts Council invites you to participate in the Dia de los Muertos exhibition, celebrating the vibrant and culturally rich Mexican tradition of honoring deceased loved ones. This exhibition, running from October 16th through November 21st, 2024, at Showtime Studios (1313 J St., Modesto, CA), will feature artwork that embraces themes of remembrance, cultural traditions, and the joyful celebration of life. Artists are encouraged to submit works that pay tribute to ancestors and explore the rich symbolism associated with Dia de los Muertos. All mediums are welcome.


Dia de los Muertos Exhibition Opening
The Stanislaus Arts Council invites you to participate in the Dia de los Muertos exhibition, celebrating the vibrant and culturally rich Mexican tradition of honoring deceased loved ones. This exhibition, running from October 16th through November 21st, 2024, at Showtime Studios (1313 J St., Modesto, CA), will feature artwork that embraces themes of remembrance, cultural traditions, and the joyful celebration of life. Artists are encouraged to submit works that pay tribute to ancestors and explore the rich symbolism associated with Dia de los Muertos. All mediums are welcome.
Artist Call | Smarter Entry | Hanging Guidelines
Exhibition Dates: October. 16th - November 21st, 2024
September 20: Entry Deadline via SmarterEntry
September 27: Notice of Acceptance
October 11: Receiving at 1315 J Street, 12-4 p.m.
October 16: Exhibition Opens at Showtime Studios
October 17: Art Walk, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.
November 21: Final Open Day
November 22: Artists Pick Up Artwork, 12-4 p.m.

Autumn Art Exhibition Final Day
Join us for an inspiring journey into creativity and innovation at the Autumn Art Exhibition, presented by the Stanislaus Arts Council. This esteemed exhibition, once exclusive to members, now welcomes submissions from artists of all backgrounds and mediums from all over California. Held at our new location at 1315 J Street, Modesto, CA, this juried showcase invites artists working in water media, oil, pastel, graphics, mixed media, and sculpture to share their unique perspectives. Celebrate artistic excellence and community spirit with us from September 3rd to October 11th, 2024. Join us for Art Walk on September 19th from 5-8pm. Additionally, this exhibition will host an invitation only artist reception for the participants of this exhibition and its sponsors.

Autumn Art Exhibition
Join us for an inspiring journey into creativity and innovation at the Autumn Art Exhibition, presented by the Stanislaus Arts Council. This esteemed exhibition, once exclusive to members, now welcomes submissions from artists of all backgrounds and mediums from all over California. Held at our new location at 1315 J Street, Modesto, CA, this juried showcase invites artists working in water media, oil, pastel, graphics, mixed media, and sculpture to share their unique perspectives. Celebrate artistic excellence and community spirit with us from September 3rd to October 11th, 2024. Join us for Art Walk on September 19th from 5-8pm. Additionally, this exhibition will host an invitation only artist reception for the participants of this exhibition and its sponsors.
Artist Call | Smarter Entry | Hanging Guidelines
Exhibition Dates: September 4th - October 11th, 2024
Entry Deadline: August 16, 2024
Acceptance Notifications: Sent by August 23, 2024
Artwork Drop-off: August 30, 2024, 10 am - 2 pm
Reception: Invitation Only - September 13, 2024
Third Thursday Art Walk on September 19, 2024, 5 pm - 8 pm
Artwork Pickup: October 12, 2024, 10 am - 2 pm

Abstracts, Impressions, & Fantasy: Exploring the Boundaries of Reality
Join us for a captivating exploration of imagination and creativity at the "Abstracts, Impressions, & Fantasy: Exploring the Boundaries of Reality" exhibition. This open call invites artists to transcend the confines of realism and delve into the realms of abstraction, impressionism, and fantasy. Hosted by the Stanislaus Arts Council, this exhibition will be showcased at Showtime 1313 J St. Modesto, CA, and is open to all mediums.
Whether through bold colors, fleeting whispers, or enchanting tales, each piece in this exhibition will challenge the boundaries of reality. The exhibition runs from July 23 through August 23, 2024, with a special Art Walk event on August 15, from 5-8pm.
Artist Call | Smarter Entry | Hanging Guidelines
Exhibition Dates: July 23 - August 23, 2024
Entry Deadline: July 13, 2024
Acceptance Notifications: Sent by July 16, 2024
Artwork Drop-off: July 19, 2024, 10 am - 2 pm
Reception: TBA
Third Thursday Art Walk on August 15, 2024, 5 pm - 8 pm
Artwork Pickup: August 24, 2024, 10 am - 2 pm

Trash to Treasures - Loving the Discarded Art
Join us for a transformative journey as artists breathe new life into discarded materials, reimagining them as vibrant works of art. 'Trash to Treasures: Upcycled & Repurposed Art Exhibition' invites you to explore the beauty of reinvention, where forgotten objects find renewed purpose and meaning. From captivating sculptures to intricate fabric art, each creation tells a story of resilience and creativity. Step into a world where innovation meets sustainability, and where every piece holds the promise of a second chance. Don't miss this inspiring showcase of ingenuity and imagination, where what was once deemed waste becomes a treasure to behold.
Artist Call | Smarter Entry
Exhibition Dates: June 11 - July 19, 2024
Entry Deadline: May 25, 2024, by 11:30 pm
Acceptance Notifications: Sent by June 2, 2024
Artwork Drop-off: June 7, 2024, 10 am - 3 pm
Art Walk: July 18, 5-8pm
Artwork Pickup: July 26, 2024
Graffiti Days Art Exhibition
Experience the vibrant essence of Modesto at the "Graffiti Days" art exhibition! Celebrating our city's rich cultural heritage, artistic vibrancy, agricultural roots, and iconic car culture, this showcase promises an immersive journey into the heart of our community.
Here's a summary of key dates and deadlines for artists looking to participate:
📅 Submission Period:
March 4th - April 13th: Submit your artwork via Smarterentry.
📧 Acceptance Notification:
By April 21st: Artists will be notified of acceptance via email.
🎨 Exhibition Dates:
May 7th - June 1st: "Graffiti Days" will be on display at Picasso’s Deli in Downtown Modesto
Celebration of Fiber Arts
Join us for the Celebration of Fiber Arts, an inspiring showcase of textile artistry, taking place at Mistlin Gallery in Modesto from April 2 to May 3, 2024. Throughout this vibrant exhibition, attendees will have the opportunity to explore a diverse array of fiber art, including wall-hung quilts, handmade dolls, wearable art, and more.
Key Dates:
Exhibition Dates: April 2 to May 3, 2024
ArtWalk: April 18, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Important Deadlines:
Entry Submission Deadline: March 4, 2024
Fiber Art Delivery: March 30, 2024
Entry Pickup: May 4, 2024
Don't miss your chance to participate in this celebration of creativity and craftsmanship! Submit your entries by March 4, 2024, and mark your calendars for a memorable exploration of the vibrant world of fiber arts.
Young @ Art Student Exhibition
Welcome to the 2024 Young@Art Student Exhibition – a celebration of creativity by youth artists from pre-school through high school! Join us at the Mistlin Gallery from March 5 to March 30, with an Art Walk on March 21, to witness the vibrant expressions of our young talents.
Special Note: This show is tailored for very young children, so submitted works should reflect positive thoughts and deeds. Content must be free of drugs, alcohol, weapons, gang symbols, and overt sexuality or violence. Instructors are encouraged to critique works before submission, and CCAL reserves the right to remove objectionable artwork.
Celebrate the artistic spirit of our youth and be part of the Young@Art experience! For more information, contact Linda Knoll at 209-247-2626 or email education@stanislausarts.org.
Join us at the Young @ Art: The Concert on March 9th!
March 1 & 2 - Receiving
March 5 - Opening Day
March 21 - Art Walk
March 30 - Closing Day & Awards Ceremony
Stanislaus Arts Photo Contest Exhibit
Stanislaus Arts Council is pleased to host a unique contest for photographers worldwide to showcase their perspectives & artistic expression. The contest will be comprised of two different competitions, and are open to all photographers and all types of photographic work; including but not limited to work with DSLRs, film cameras, cell phones, large format & pinhole cameras. Each competition will have 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place winners, in addition to many sponsor awards.
Sept. 15 - Competition Opens
Dec. 15 - Last Day to Submit Photos
Jan. 5 - Notification of Acceptance
Jan. 27 - Receiving Day
Jan. 30 - Show Opens at Gallery
Feb. 15 - Art Walk
TBD - Award Reception
March 1 - Gallery Show Closes
March 2 - Pick Up
Single Exposure: A Don Hall Show
The Mistlin Gallery presents “Single Exposure,” an exceptional exhibition showcasing the vibrant and thought-provoking creations of local artist Don Hall. This dynamic showcase features Don’s colorful, large-scale self-portraits in painting and abstract ceramic sculptures.
Join us for an engaging exploration of art history and personal expression. The exhibition runs from January 2nd to January January 26th, with a special artist reception on January 18th from 5-8pm during Art Walk.
Located at 1015 J Street in downtown Modesto, this event promises a delightful blend of humor, thoughtfulness, and creativity. Mark your calendar and immerse yourself in Don Hall’s world of vibrant self-reflection and artistic innovation!
Dec. 28 - Receiving
Jan. 2 - Opening Day
Jan. 18 - Art Walk
Jan. 26 - Closing Day
Jan. 27 - Pick Up

Give the Gift of Art: Opening Day
Give the Gift of Art is a member show running from November 21st to December 22nd.
This is an open-theme exhibition that gives artists creative control and all types of mediums are welcome. This show was designed to encourage people to share the gift of art for the holidays.

Autumn Art Festival Award Ceremony & Gala Fundraiser
This annual event showcases the exceptional talent of CCAA members in an open-themed, juried art show. It's a platform for artists to connect, compete for cash prizes, and share their unique artistic expressions with the community. Join us in celebrating the power of art and support this fundraising event that fosters creativity and enriches our local art scene. Save the date for the fundraising gala on the evening of September 23rd, 2023, where the winners will be announced and the art community comes together in a night of celebration and inspiration.
Submit Online

Autumn Art Festival Opening Day
This annual event showcases the exceptional talent of CCAA members in an open-themed, juried art show. It's a platform for artists to connect, compete for cash prizes, and share their unique artistic expressions with the community. Join us in celebrating the power of art and support this fundraising event that fosters creativity and enriches our local art scene. Save the date for the fundraising gala on the evening of September 23rd, 2023, where the winners will be announced and the art community comes together in a night of celebration and inspiration.
Submit Online

Creative Synergy
This exhibition, “Creative Synergy,” is an opportunity for visual artists, sculptors, photographers, writers, poets, musicians, composers, dancers, and choreographers to come together, form teams, and develop unique blends of various artistic genres inspired by a common theme. Imagine the possibilities - a painting accompanied by a poem, a photograph paired with a pre-recorded music performance, or a 3D sculpture alongside a dance piece. The sky's the limit when it comes to combining your creative skills with those of your fellow artists.

Salon des Refusés - Emerging Artist Exhibition
The Central California Art Association at Mistlin Gallery is hosting its first ever Salon des Refusé: Emerging Artist Show, featuring new and emerging artists from Stanislaus County. Open to all mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, and more, the show is a platform for artists to showcase their unique perspectives. Running from June 13th to July 15th, 2022, the open-ended theme encourages creativity and originality. The Salon des Refusé is inspired by the Parisian Salon des Refusé, which gave a voice to unknown artists.

Members’ Open Theme Show
Central California Art Association (CCAA) was established in 1952 with the mission to support regional artists and encourage excellence in the visual arts. We are excited to offer this opportunity to highlight our regional talent. The Members Open Theme Show presents CCAA member artists working in painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, mixed media and photography. Artists’ work can be on any theme suitable for a family friendly environment. The Emerging Artists Show will be presented in Gallery A, and the Members Only Theme Show will be showcased in Gallery B of the Mistlin Gallery. Celebrate 70 years of bringing fine art to our community!

Trash To Treasure: Upcycled & Repurposed Art
Trash to Treasure is an annual event that showcases the work of artists who have created pieces using only repurposed and recycled materials. The event aims to raise awareness about the importance of sustainability and the creative possibilities of repurposing waste. The exhibition will feature a wide range of mediums, including sculpture, painting, mixed media, and installation art. The event is organized by the Mistlin Gallery and is open to artists of all backgrounds and skill levels.

Love Modesto
This show is open to artists working in all mediums and will be exhibited at the Mistlin Gallery in Modesto, California, during the month of April. “Love Modesto ”, calls for artists to show What they love about Modesto through their own perspective. The sub themes will be; Graffiti Night, Agriculture, Modesto Sites, Science Fiction, Interesting Architecture, Historical Figures, Modesto Famous Figures and Performing Arts. Submissions for this show will be accepted through Smart Entry now through March 19th.

Young@Art - Student Art Exhibit
Get ready to showcase your creativity and talent! The Central California Art Association's annual Young@Art exhibition is open to all youth-aged artists, from pre-school to high school. All art submissions will be accepted, and winning artists will be awarded with ribbons and cash prizes. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to have your art recognized and celebrated. Submit your artwork and be a part of this exciting event!

Letters Home Photography Pop-Up
An emotional and personal photography experience that visually documents the resettlement of immigrant and refugee college students in the Central Valley. Through the exhibition, you will gain an understanding of the stories they want to tell their families, their longing for their cultural heritage and their determination to maintain it. Join us on February 16th during the art walk, don't miss this chance to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences.

Collision VII - Invitational Only Exhibition
"Collision VII" is a collaborative event where 18 poets and 18 photographers were paired and challenged to create singular works that represented both of their unique, personal views. The results will be displayed in Mistlin Gallery during February 2023 and a poetry reading with a slide show of the photographic images will celebrate the final results on February 24, 2023. This is the seventh renewal of the popular event that began in 2008 and has been a bi-annual event until COVID interfered with the schedule. The event is organized by David Schroeder and Linda Scheller.

Circus Vargas: Behind The Curtain
"Circus Vargas: Behind the Curtain" is an exhibition of photographs by award-winning photographer and realist painter William Harris. The exhibition features candid and mostly unposed images taken in 1991 and 1998-1999 at Circus Vargas in Modesto, California. Harris's personal project captures the essence of the traveling tent circus and its performers through his documentary approach, which captures slices of life that are often ignored. The exhibition aims to showcase the beauty and wonder of the circus, inviting the audience to appreciate the art and skill that goes into each performance.