The Goleta Valley Art Association (GVAA) has returned to its “home base”, the Goleta Valley Library, after an absence of more than two years due to the COVID pandemic.
GVAA will present its second juried show of 2022 at the Goleta Valley Library from June 4th through June 29th. The featured artist of the month is John Williams, who has also been a long-time GVAA volunteer. John specializes in gorgeous landscapes painted in oil. His art is well known in the community and graces many homes across the country. He has also been a generous donor of his art to non-profit fundraisers. Congratulations John.
All GVAA shows end with a critique of the art selected by the juror. Carissa Luminess (May juror) is an award-winning, nationally known artist who teaches art and workshops. This month she will present her “Art Biz” workshop for GVAA members. The public is always invited to these critiques. Wednesday, June 29th, 5:15 – 7:00 pm is the next critique at the Goleta Valley Library.
The organization’s first juried show, Art for Peace, with a portion of proceeds going to Direct Relief, the Goleta-based provider of disaster assistance world-wide, for the people of Ukraine ran through May 27.
“This was an opportunity for our association to pay homage to the people of Ukraine, their bravery and solidarity in the face of brutal war,” said Elizabeth Flanagan, president of the organization. “We’re very excited to be back at the Goleta Valley Library and to celebrate our return with this special show.”
Our shows can be seen in the Community Room of the Goleta Library at 500 N. Fairview Ave., which is open Tuesday through Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sunday 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. The exhibitions feature 40 pieces of original art by local artists selected by jurors such as Cathy Quiel, Carissa Luminess, Garrett Speirs, Libby Smith and Cathy Runkle.
The community is always invited to view our month long shows and to attend our juror critiques on the final day (see website for schedule.) Upcoming shows are planned for July, September and November 2022.
With the community opening up again, the organization also looks forward to continuing its after-school program for Goleta Valley Union School District students who will have the opportunity to develop and share their creative talents with the guidance of GVAA members. “It’s an important service to the children and the schools and one we relish providing,” noted Flanagan.
For more information about the organization and to learn how to join, visit https://www.thegoletavalleyartassociation.org/
The Goleta Valley Art Association began with a small group of artists who first met in March 1963, showing their artwork at a Goleta bank. From its first meeting place in the office of the Goleta Valley Chamber of Commerce to its present-day site at the Goleta Public Library, the Association has grown from 16 members to over 200 members.
