Brenda Colgate (Right) shows off a piece from her late mother Bea Guttman to former Arts Benicia Director Kathryn Weller Renfrow at the 2016 exhibit “Forma Natura: Nature as a Source.” Arts Benicia will turn 30 in 2017. (Photo courtesy of Mary Shaw)

By Vicki Dennis
Special to the Herald

Arts Benicia has been a vibrant force in the region for years, but 2017 has special meaning for the organization.
“Next year, we will mark our 30th anniversary which speaks volumes to the long-term commitment to the arts in our community,” Celeste Smeland, executive director, said.
But before the anniversary celebrations begin, Arts Benicia is focused on some remaining 2016 business: the annual End-of-Year Giving Campaign.
“Each year, the community’s generosity allows us to continue to offer the quality exhibitions, classes and programs that Arts Benicia is known for,” Smeland said.
Arts Benicia relies on these contributions from community members, especially at the end of the year.
“I know there are many worthwhile causes to contribute to and we are so grateful to be included in people’s giving plans at this time,” Smeland said. “Even the smallest sum is
meaningful to us and directly supports our programs for artists and the community.”
She added that all contributions are tax-deductible and can be made by sending a check to Arts Benicia, 991 Tyler Street, Suite 114, Benicia, CA 94510, or by going online to artsbenicia.org and clicking the “Donate Now” button.
According to Smeland, the new year will be a dynamic one with special events and programs to celebrate Arts Benicia’s 30th anniversary.
“We will honor Arts Benicia’s 30 years of commitment to the arts with a year of world-class exhibitions showcasing Benicia’s rich artistic legacy and featuring the best from our local and regional artists’ communities,” she said.
In addition, Arts Benicia will continue its important work with children and families, bringing art to classrooms and after school, offering the beloved Family Art Days, and its new Teen Art Program. An outstanding roster of adult education classes and workshops will provide learning experiences ranging from introductory art practice to professional development.
“We also plan exciting new cultural collaborations with many organizations in Benicia and the region,” Smeland said.
Included are activities with the Benicia Historical Museum, Liberty High School, City of Benicia Parks & Recreation, Sustainable Solano, the American Association of University Women/Vallejo-Benicia Chapter, and Beatnik Gallery in Sacramento.
“On behalf of our board and staff, we thank the community for supporting Arts Benicia in 2016 and hope you will support us again at this end of year campaign,” Smeland said. “I’d like to let folks know that, even though the gallery and office are closed from December 23 through January 3, we will be checking emails, voice mails, and postal mail. Feel free to contact me directly at celeste@artsbenicia.org.”
Arts Benicia is located at 991 Tyler St., Suite 114, in Benicia’s Arsenal. The Arts Benicia Gallery’s upcoming exhibition will be The Art of a Community which will open on Saturday, Jan. 21, followed by an opening reception on Saturday, Jan. 28. During the exhibition, the gallery and office are open Wednesday to Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.
For more information, contact Exhibitions and Programs Manager Mary Shaw, 707-747-0131 or visit www.artsbenicia.org.

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