Our Mission:

The Richmond Art Center is a dynamic arts organization that empowers and transforms individuals and the community through creative exploration, experience and education.

Our History:

The Richmond Art Center was founded in 1936 by local artist Hazel Salmi. Working for the WPA, Hazel walked, biked and rode streetcars throughout Richmond carrying a suitcase filled with art supplies. Hazel's firm belief was that within every person resides an artist—her aim was to transform individuals and the community through creative exploration, experience, and education. In 1951, recognizing the arts as essential in its civic cultural fabric, Richmond integrated the Art Center into its new civic center. 

About Us:

The Richmond Art Center is a Bay Area cultural institution that showcases both emerging and established artists, including Richard Diebenkorn, Jasper Johns, Jay Defeo, Wanxin Zhang, and Hung Liu — many of whom launched their careers at the Art Center. Four galleries and a sculpture courtyard host 14 -16 exhibitions a year. The Art Center also offers a comprehensive range of on-site classes, docent-led tours, community events and off-site programs at schools and community centers for adults, teens and children. At the Center alone, 160 beginning to advanced classes and workshops are taught every year across a wide range of media, to over 1100 students all taught by experts in their fields.