Spring has sprung in Stanislaus County and April has arrived, bringing with it a statewide celebration of creativity, expression, and cultural vitality. As Arts, Culture & Creativity Month in California, this moment offers an opportunity to both reflect on the impact of the arts in our daily lives and to actively engage with the extraordinary work happening across our region.

We are pleased to share that the City of Modesto will formally recognize this occasion with a proclamation at the Modesto City Council meeting on Tuesday, April 7 at 5:30 PM. This acknowledgment affirms what we know to be true—the arts are not ancillary, but essential to the identity, economy, and wellbeing of our community.

As we move through April, we invite you to participate fully in our creative community—attend, create, advocate, and celebrate. The arts are a reflection of who we are and a vision of what we can become. Your presence, support, and engagement are what sustain and elevate this work.

In community & with appreciation,

Dominique Johnson
Executive Director
Stanislaus Arts Council
djohnson@stanislausarts.org

Stanislaus Arts Council Highlights

Current Exhibition: Youth In Bloom
Celebrate the remarkable creativity of Stanislaus County’s young artists in our ongoing exhibition, Youth In Bloom, on display from March 9 through May 22. The exhibition showcases a vibrant array of works that reflect the talent, vision, and dedication of our local youth. Join us for the Reception on May 20 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, with the Awards Ceremony beginning at 6:00 PM. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Elliot Community Celebration Fund for generously sponsoring this inspiring showcase of blooming talent.

Modesto Art Walk – Call for Artists (Deadline: April 6 at 5:00 PM)
Artists are invited to reserve their space for the upcoming Art Walk. We encourage early registration to ensure participation:
https://www.stanislausarts.org/art-walk-artist-reservations

Van Gogh Challenge – Call for Art (Deadline: April 4, no cost to submit or participate)
Finalists will be featured during the April 16th Modesto Art Walk, with selected award winning works on exhibition in the Visit Modesto Visitors Center from May 26 through June 21.
https://visitmodesto.com/van-gogh-challenge-sign-up/

Modesto Art Walk – Thursday, April 16 | 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Begin your evening at 1315 J Street to pick up your map and experience the creativity within our community quilt—an inspiring collective work created from fabric squares designed by locals at the Art Walk through our recent Create Stations, generously supported by The Raymus Foundation.

Art Walk Guests are also invited to participate in our Create Station featuring the “Mini Masterpiece” experience—complimentary 6x6 canvases and personal paint kits will be available to create on-site or take home at no cost. Throughout the evening, we encourage you to engage with artists, explore exhibitions across downtown, support local creatives through accessible art purchases, and enjoy the many dining offerings available.

This month’s Art Walk coincides with the State of the City address at The State Theatre. We warmly invite attendees to continue their evening with us following the conclusion of that event.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our dedicated venue partners for their support and participation in the Art Walk: Melodiq, Lo-Fi Cocktails , Chinn’s International, The State Theatre, D’Forno Cocina, Dragonfly Art for Life Studio, Papachino’s, Tresetti’s, Tokyo Express, Provident Care, Pure Grind, The Taste Studio, and Rancho Fresco.

Community Events & Opportunities

April 1 | Community Dialogue – Prospect Theater Project
An evening of thoughtful discussion exploring identity, storytelling, and contemporary themes inspired by Stop Kiss.
https://prospecttheaterproject.org/box-office/?eid=189911

April 3 | “A Festival of Art” Spring Show Reception
6:00 – 8:00 PM | Reception & Awards at 7:00 PM
Show on Exhibit: March 28 to April 25, 2026
Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum
610 N. 9th Street, Modesto, 209-409-8617
Hours: Saturdays from 10 am to 3 pm.
Admission is Free

April 4 | Figure Drawing Session
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Merced Multicultural Arts Center, Room 4, on the third floor, 645 W. Main Street, Merced.
An open studio session supporting artists of all levels, featuring a nude, female model.
$20 participation fee, For more information email ccbeader@gmail.com

April 17–19 | Valley Repertory Theatre Company
Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike
Denair Gaslight Theater
For Tickets and Showtimes visit denairgaslight.com

April 18 | GarageFest
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
A citywide event transforming Modesto into a destination for discovery, connection, and community exchange.
https://visitmodesto.com/events/garagefest-2026/

April 19–20 | CA Arts & Culture Summit
Sacramento, CA
A convening of leaders, advocates, and creatives shaping the future of arts and culture across the state.

More information and tickets can be found here .

April 20 | California Arts Council 50th Anniversary Awards Ceremony
Following the Summit at the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium.
Hosted by California Arts Council
https://secure.everyaction.com/hxioITB-6UWD-go4xJPv2Q2

April 21 | Arts Advocacy Day at the Capitol
A powerful opportunity to engage directly with elected officials and champion the arts.
https://na.eventscloud.com/website/90509/arts-advocacy-day/

The People’s Earth Day, Really Really Free Market, Bike Repair Shop, Plant Swap & Art Competition
Hosted by Valley Improvement Project
A youth-centered creative opportunity connecting art, environment, and community voice at Fairview Park in Modesto, 10 AM to 2PM.
For details: Laura@vip209.org

Regional & National Creative Opportunities

America 250 City Art Poster Project
Presented by the U.S. Conference of Mayors in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts
Submission Deadline: May 1, 2026
https://www.usmayors.org/programs/america-250-city-art-poster-project/

Grants for Arts Projects (GAP)
The NEA’s principal funding opportunity for organizations nationwide.
Deadline: July 9, 2026
https://www.arts.gov/grants/grants-for-arts-projects

California Arts Council 2026 Grant Programs

Through statewide grant opportunities, we ensure every Californian has the opportunity to create, participate, and flourish through the power of artistic expression. Deadline: May 12, 2026
https://arts.ca.gov/grants/grant-programs/

Looking Ahead

Central West Ballet Presents: Cinderella
May 1–3, 2026
Mary Stuart Rogers Theater
A timeless production brought to life with elegance, charm, and theatrical delight.

CWB will be joining the April 16th Modesto Art Walk! Make plans to stop by their table in front of Chinn’s International.
https://tickets.galloarts.org/10742