Call for Support!

The arts are more than just paintings on a wall or performances on a stage—they are the heart of a thriving, connected community. The arts spark conversation, inspire innovation, and drive local economies. They bring us together, challenge our perspectives, and remind us of our shared humanity.

At the Stanislaus Arts Council, we have been working tirelessly to support, promote, and advocate for the arts throughout Stanislaus County. As the State-Local Partner of the California Arts Council, we serve as the official local arts agency for our region, making us uniquely positioned to sub-grant funding directly to artists and arts organizations—something most arts groups cannot do.

Bringing $1.6 Million to Stanislaus County Through the Creative Corps Heartland Grant

One of our greatest recent successes was facilitating the Creative Corps Heartland Grant, which brought $1.6 million in state funding to Stanislaus County in 2023-2024. Through this program, 16 incredible arts projects were funded all over our county, supporting artists and creative initiatives that directly impacted our community.

This is the kind of big-picture, transformative work that the Stanislaus Arts Council is capable of. And yet, many people don’t realize just how much we do.

We Are More Than Just a Gallery—But We Need to Keep It Open

While we operate a small but vibrant gallery in the heart of downtown Modesto, our impact reaches far beyond those walls. We work alongside business partners to bring the 3rd Thursday Downtown Modesto Art Walk, we advocate for arts funding at the state and local levels, and we create opportunities for artists to thrive in every corner of our county.

But here’s the reality: without community support, the gallery is in danger of closing after June 30, 2025.

Over the past year, we have seen the heartbreaking closure of several beloved arts spaces in Modesto, including The Chartreuse Muse, The Mistlin Gallery, and most recently the Peer Recovery Art Gallery. The Stanislaus Arts Gallery is now the last remaining community gallery in downtown Modesto, but it cannot survive without the support of the very community it serves.

The Arts Are Essential—And You Can Make a Difference

The arts are not a luxury; they are a cultural and economic driver. Studies show that arts and culture generate revenue, attract tourism, and enhance the quality of life for everyone. A city with a thriving arts scene is a stronger, more vibrant city—but that only happens when the community actively supports it.

So how can you help? There are many ways to show your support, and every action makes an impact:

Attend Our Events – Join us for exhibitions, artist talks, and community gatherings. Your presence shows that the arts matter.

Visit the Gallery – We feature a new exhibition each month, showcasing the incredible talent of local artists. Stop by, bring a friend, and immerse yourself in creativity.

Become a Member – Membership helps sustain the work we do and connects you to a community of art lovers and creators.

Purchase Local Art – Buying a painting, print, or card directly supports artists and helps keep our gallery running.

Make a Donation – Every dollar counts. If you believe in the value of having a creative space in Modesto, your financial support is crucial.

Share Our Mission – Spread the word on social media, tell your friends, and encourage others to get involved. Awareness leads to action.

This Gallery Belongs to the Community—But It Must Be Supported by the Community

The Stanislaus Arts Council can continue to operate with just a small office, but we know that’s not enough. Our community desires a third place—a creative space, a home for the arts, a gallery where inspiration lives.

If we cannot rally enough support before June 30, 2025, the Stanislaus Arts Gallery may have to close its doors. We do not want that to happen. We know you don’t either.

The future of the arts in Stanislaus County depends on all of us. Let’s show that our community values the arts, that we believe in creativity, and that we will work together to keep this space alive.

Now is the time to act. Will you join us?

Visit us, donate, or learn more at stanislausarts.org

Together, we can ensure that the arts continue to thrive in Stanislaus County.

Support the Arts. Promote Creativity. Elevate Community.

Dominique Johnson
Executive Director
Stanislaus Arts Council

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Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund