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3rd Annual Lafayette Community Day--Saturday, June 1, 2024--Project Sign-Ups Available Now!

The Community Foundation of Lafayette, in partnership with the City of Lafayette and the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, proudly presents the 3rd Annual Lafayette Community Day on Saturday, June 1, 2024 – a Day of Service, Celebration, & Community (8:00 am-1:30 pm in Lafayette Plaza).

All Lafayette residents are invited and encouraged to participate! Volunteer sign ups are now available at lafayettecommunityday.org.

The day will start with a Learning & Selection Fair where registered volunteers will have the opportunity to learn about our host organizations and groups and select a project for the day – more family-friendly projects have been added this year. 

Thank you to our returning major sponsor Republic Services and PG&E! We are sincerely grateful to these two partners for making this special day possible! Please visit lafayettecommunityday.org for more information.

OUR MAY EMAIL BLASTS ARE SPONSORED BY

Lafayette Car Wash and Detail Center

http://www.lafayettecarwash.com

Upcoming Local Events & Special Announcements from our Lafayette Chamber Members & Arts Community

Swan Lake

Contra Costa Ballet Foundation presents Swan Lake, May 10^th and 11^th, at The Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek. Get your ticket to “One of the greatest and most revered fairytale ballets of all time”. Contra Costa Ballet School is enrolling students for the spring semester. For more information see contracostaballet.org.

Walk through downtown with family & friends, shop local, support local!

The Lafayette Chamber’s Retail sub-committee is excited to announce and promote Lafayette’s local businesses and local artists with this exciting new event, Artisan Walk, on May 11, the day before Mother’s Day.

Businesses throughout Lafayette will be showcasing local artisan items – perfect gifts for upcoming occasions – Mother’s Day, Graduation, Father’s Day.

Participating Businesses - Artists

As of May 8, 2024; Subject to change! Download PDF Map

Abode Flooring – Susan Goldie Art

Amphora – featuring artisan goods!

Clocks, Etc. – Whitchurch Glass Designs & Spring Night Designs

Douglah Designs & Luxe Home By Douglah Designs – Lily’s Whims

First Mile Cycle Works – Old Road Brand

Floral Arts Florist – Madeline Creative Designs

Harper Greer – featured artist Lucy Beck

Hills and Grant Interior Design – Orinda resident artist Margie Gill

Hollie’s Homegrown – Arlynn Bloom, local watercolor, acrylic and oil painter and 30+ more local artists and artisans

Indigo & Poppy – Kolkka Furniture

Kimberley Harrison Interiors‘ retail shop, Apricity, will feature local artisan Regan Balinton, Demby Co.

Lamorinda Music – Fleurette Sevin Jewelry

Luck – Employee and Artist Lori Huhn

Mighty Market – West Coast Vibez – Resin Designs

Misto Lino – Karen Frock Photography

Reasonable Books – Jeff Heyman Fine Art Photography

Sharp Bicycle – Enumero Cribbage Boards

Soccer Post – Arthur Lockhart Photography, specializing in sport and family themes

Solano Jewelers – featuring artist Zarmine Aghazarian

Sonder Beauty Studio – artisan skincare and candles made locally in small batches

Vintage Vida – featuring “Muzzy” tie dye and reverse dying upcycled graphic tees

Ware Designs – featuring Suzanne Rogge, a local jewelry artist

Wax A Peel – Studio Jule

White Barn Home – Linda Dittas Artist, Deana Wentzel, Photographer, DD Ceramics

Your CBD Store – Amber DeSilva Art

Zahra Boutique Salon – Violet & Aster Floral Design, Vagabond Ruth, Sugar Sugar Wax, Cali Cactus Kids

Learn more at https://lafayettechamber.org/walk.

Own a Piece of Art Exhibited at the de Young Museum

Come to the Lafayette Artisan Walk on Saturday, May 11, 1-4:00 p.m.

That’s right, you can own a piece of art that hung at San Francisco’s de Young Museum. Jeff Heyman, an Orinda-based photographer, will be exhibiting his work at Reasonable Books, an independent bookstore, as part of Lafayette’s Artisan Walk on Saturday, May 11, 2024, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The Lafayette Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the Artisan Walk to promote local businesses and artists. Businesses throughout Lafayette will be showcasing local artwork.

Stop by Reasonable Books at 3645-C, Mt. Diablo Blvd., next to Trader Joe’s in Lafayette, to see Heyman’s photographs, including “Oak Scars No. 3,” a series of photos that was featured in last year’s de Young Open exhibit. While you’re there, you can browse through the thousands of carefully curated new, used and collectable titles at Reasonable Books.

Heyman, a Bay Area native with a degree in Fine Art Photography from San Francisco State University, has practiced photography for more than 40 years. In addition to the de Young Museum, Heyman’s work has been shown at the Lafayette and Orinda libraries and elsewhere. A range of his black and white photographs – including several of the Lafayette Crosses – will be on exhibit at Reasonable Books during the Artisan Walk. View photos here.

So bring family and friends to downtown Lafayette on May 11 and enjoy local shopping and local art. Make sure to head to Reasonable Books to see some great photography and shop their collection of handpicked vintage and contemporary books. 

For more information visit Reasonable Books online at https://reasonable.online or Jeff Heyman Fine Art Photography at https://heymanfoto.smugmug.com.

Whitchurch Glass Designs

Pocket Vase Large: $49

Whether you're showcasing fresh blooms or propagating new indoor houseplants, this versatile beauty adds a touch of joy to any space. A

11” x 6” free standing, curved design. Pocket size, approximately 4” square. This and many more of Cynthia’s creations are available locally at: Clocks, Etc., in Lafayette; the Red Door (both locations), in Brentwood; and for a limited time at Forma Gym in Walnut Creek. 

Cynthia will be at Clocks, Etc., on Saturday May 11, during the Downtown Lafayette Artisan Walk. It’s a great opportunity shop local for unique gifts for Mother’s Day, Graduation and Father’s Day. Then for the second year, she will be at the Ventura Fairgrounds on May 18 and 19 for the California Strawberry Festival. Over the past few months, she’s been making many deliciously eye-appealing strawberries for this event. Details about 2024 events are posted on www.WhitchurchGlassDesigns.com. Learn how Cynthia makes her designs and keep up to date on studio projects by following her on Instagram @WhitchurchGlassDesigns. 

Lafayette artist and resident, Cynthia Whitchurch creates her art by melting and bending colored glass into custom molds producing beautiful pieces including panels, bowls, plates, dishes, coasters, night lights and more. She welcomes the opportunity to partner with other local retailers to showcase her work. Contact Cynthia at WhitchurchGlassDesigns@yahoo.com

Lafayette Artisan Walk at Hollie's Homegrown!

Saturday, May 11th, 1:00PM-4:00PM, 998 Moraga Rd, Lafayette, CA, 94549

Mother’s Day weekend, join Hollie's Homegrown for the first ever Lafayette Artisan Walk! Meet local Artis Arlynn Bloom, whose work is currently showing in the shop. Arlynn will be doing a live painting demonstration!

Businesses throughout Lafayette will be showcasing local artisan items - perfect gifts for upcoming occasions. Walk through downtown with family & friends, shop local, support local. Peruse new work for our 25+ local artisans, and select beautiful, unique products to share with your loved ones! hollieshomegrown.com

Performing Academy!

Diablo Ballet presents The Firebird

Join Diablo Ballet for a brand new one act magical fairytale ballet by award-winning choreographer Brian Enos, The Firebird, performing May 17 - 18 at the Lesher Center for the Arts. Set to the sweeping score by Igor Stravinsky, a handsome Prince and his beautiful Princess fall in love through the majestic Firebird who saves them. The program also features 4 in the Morning by world renowned dance maker Val Caniparoli which is reminiscent of the Great Gatsby-esque Golden Era and inspired by Edith Sitwell's poem called "4 in the Morning," plus the stunning pas de deux from Light Rain by Gerald Arpino.

Immediately after the performance, join Diablo Ballet for a complimentary meet and greet with the cast in costume and a sweet treat for our younger guests! Patrons can also enjoy a specialty drink "The Firebird" at intermission. This delicious beverage both with or without alcohol is a tasty apple treat.

For tickets and information visit: https://diabloballet.org/the-firebird.

LAMORINDA ARTS COUNCIL

May 2024

Art Gallery at the Orinda Library - Ekphrasis Exhibition 2024

The Lamorinda Arts Council, California Writers Club Mt. Diablo Branch and Lamorinda Arts Alliance invite you to view 50 artworks paired with 50 bespoke writings displayed side by side in this collaborative exhibit. Ekphrasis is a term from ancient Greece meaning a literary description of visual artwork. The exhibit runs through June 28 during normal Library hours, closed Sundays and May 27. For more information email ekphrasis@LamorindaArts.org, call 925.359.9940 or visit http://lamorindaarts.org/galleries-2.

Art Gallery at Wilder – Ania Lesela “Contemplations”

The Lamorinda Arts Council invites you to view featured artist Ania Lesela of Orinda’s artwork in the Art Gallery at Wilder, 20 Orinda Fields Lane, Orinda. As a neuroscientist, physician and artist Lesela explores the interplay between the physical, spiritual, and the emotional using acrylic and mixed media. Wilder is open Mon. - Fri. 3:00-5:00 p.m., closed Sat. & Sun. and May 27. To view and/or purchase her artwork go to https://lamorindaarts.org/product-category/wilder-online-gallery/. Please download directions to the Gallery if you plan on visiting at https://lamorindaarts.org/current-exhibits-wilder/.

Lamorinda Idol – Auditions May 9 to 11

Lamorinda Idol runs from April through August and is open to youth singers from anywhere in Lafayette, Moraga or Orinda. Singers in grades K - 12 enter as soloists or in groups to compete for prizes. In-person auditions are held at Orinda Intermediate School from May 9 to 11. Local performance concerts are scheduled in June and July. Questions? Email idol@LamorindaArts.org or visit https://lamorindaarts.org/idol-2/

Art Embraces Words – Sat. May 18, 2:00 to 3:30, Reception Following

Emerging writers Elizabeth Perlman, Salman Ansari and Jennifer Granat read from their written work surrounded by original artwork and illustrations at the Lamorinda Arts Council's Sat. May 18 program. Lovers of the spoken word and art are invited to attend at the Lafayette Library & Learning Center Arts & Science Room; reception follows in courtyard. This free program is generously funded by a grant from the Community Foundation of Lafayette. Visit https://LamorindaArts.org/art-embraces-words or call 925.359.9940 to learn more or to apply to participate in the August 24 or October 26 programs. 

Mocktails & Cocktails – Sun. May 26 4:00 – 6:00 @ Tutu’s Lafayette

Join friends of the Lamorinda Arts Council for some artsy talk about the creative life. Share something you are working on to start the conversation. 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. at Tutu's, 53 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette. Look for our knockoff Picassoesque poster of surrealist Dora Maar – that’s us! No host bar. Just show up. Questions? Call 925.359.9940.

June 2024

Art Gallery at the Orinda Library: Ekphrasis Arts and Letters Delights and Surprises

The Lamorinda Arts Council invites you to celebrate summer by visiting the Art Gallery at the Orinda Library in June to view the Ekphrasis exhibit of curated artworks displayed next to their own bespoke writings. Ekphrasis is defined as a literary description of or commentary on a visual work of art. Visit the Gallery to view artwork and read writings through June 28 at 26 Orinda Way, Orinda during normal hours: Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday – Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; closed Sundays and June 19. For more information email ekphrasis@LamorindaArts.org, call 925.359.9940 or visit http://lamorindaarts.org/galleries-2

Art Gallery at Wilder: Leslie Golden’s California Landscapes and Garden Florals – Reception Sunday June 2, 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.

The Lamorinda Arts Council features Leslie Golden’s oil paintings in the Art Gallery at Wilder in June. Her theme is California landscapes and florals from her garden. “I’m aiming for fresh, effortless and elegant,” said Golden. Visit the Art Gallery at Wilder, 20 Orinda Fields Lane, Orinda 94563 Mon. – Fri. from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.; closed Sat. – Sun. and June 19. For more information, visit https://lamorindaarts.org/current-exhibits-wilder/ where you can also download directions if you plant to visit, email wildergallery@lamorindaarts.org or call 925.359.9940.

Lamorinda Idol Performance – Rock the Plaza Friday June 28 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Rock the Plaza is hosted by the Lafayette Chamber and is located at 3530 Plaza Way, Lafayette, CA (corner of Mt. Diablo Blvd. & Moraga Rd). Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic, chairs or blanket to enjoy the Idol finalists. Lamorinda Idol, a program of the Lamorinda Arts Council, is an annual singing competition open to students in K - 12th grade who attend school or reside anywhere in Lafayette, Moraga or Orinda. Learn more here: https://lamorindaarts.org/idol-2/

Mocktails & Cocktails – Sun. June 30, 4:00 – 6:00 @ Tutu’s Lafayette

Join friends of the Lamorinda Arts Council for some artsy talk about the creative life. Share something you are working on to start the conversation. 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. at Tutu's, 53 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette. Look for our knockoff Picassoesque poster of surrealist Dora Maar – that’s us! No host bar. Just show up. Questions? Call 925.359.9940.

July 2024

Art Gallery at the Orinda Library: Paintings by Christina Baal, Molly Gleeson-Kodama & Michiko Sakai - Raku Ceramics by Mary Leigh Miller – Reception July 6 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.

The Lamorinda Arts Council presents four local artists in the Art Gallery at the Orinda Library during July. You are invited to meet them at an artist reception held in their honor on Saturday July 6 from 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. where light refreshments will be served. Closed Sundays and July 4. For more information email gallery@LamorindaArts.org, call 925.359.9940 or visit http://lamorindaarts.org/galleries-2.

Art Gallery at Wilder: Judith Feins “Luscious California Landscapes” - Reception July 7, 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.

The Lamorinda Arts Council features well-known artist Judith Fein’s oil paintings in the Art Gallery at Wilder in July. Meet the artist at a reception in her honor on Sun. July 7 from 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. Visit the Art Gallery at Wilder, 20 Orinda Fields Lane, Orinda 94563 Mon. – Fri. from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.; closed Sat. – Sun. and July 4. For more information, visit https://lamorindaarts.org/current-exhibits-wilder/ where you can also download directions if you plant to visit, email wildergallery@lamorindaarts.org or call 925.359.9940.

Art Embraces Poetry: July 20 Readings 1:30 – 2:30; Open 3 Minute Mic 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Lovers of the spoken word and art are invited to listen to Gail Rudd Entrekin read poems from “Walking Each Other Home” and Jim Gunshinan’s read from his latest works on Sat. July 20 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. A 3 Minute Open Mic follows from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Poets are invited to register and reserve their spot by emailing literary@LamorindaArts.org.  The program is held at Town Hall Theatre, 3535 School St. in downtown Lafayette, a No Host Bar is open during the event. A reception immediate follows in the lobby where art from Lafayette Public Art Committee is on display. This free program is generously funded by the Community Foundation of Lafayette. Questions? Email literary@LamorindaArts.org, visit https://LamorindaArts.org/art-embraces-words or call 925.359.9940.

Mocktails & Cocktails: Sun. July 28, 4 – 6:00 p.m. @ Tutu’s Lafayette

Join friends of the Lamorinda Arts Council for some artsy talk about the creative life. Share something you are working on to start the conversation. 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. at Tutu's, 53 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette. Look for our knockoff Picassoesque poster of surrealist Dora Maar – that’s us! No host bar. Just show up. Questions? Call 925.359.9940.

Cal Shakes 50th Anniversary Season Launch and Community Picnic

Saturday, May 18, 2024 | 12 — 4pm PDT

Bruns Memorial Amphitheater

Tickets for this event are Pay What You Can. The suggested minimum donation is $5 per person. 

Featuring Performances, Food, Activities, and a sneak peek of As You Like It! Join us for a day of community fun:

• Student performances from Christ the King Middle School of Pleasant Hill, Miramonte High School of Orinda, and Saint Mary's College of California.
• Junior Center of Art and Science (JCAS) will be offering arts activities. 
• A sneak peek of this season's 50th Anniversary production of As You Like It, with the production's director Elizabeth Carter, Dramaturg Philippa Kelly, and Executive Director Clive Worsley
• Activities for kids

Learn more and get tickets here.

Diablo Symphony Orchestra

Please note that the following concert (being held on a school night) will run approximately 75 minutes, with no intermission. The Diablo Symphony Orchestra's final concert of the season brings New York City to the Lesher Center for the Arts on May 19 at 7:30 p.m., with Leonard Bernstein's Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, and the first three movements (“I’m Late, I’m Late,” “Her,” and “Pan”) of Eddie Sauter's Focus Suite, featuring soloist Greg Brown on tenor saxophone. Composed by Sauter in 1961 for saxophonist Stan Getz, Focus Suite couples a string orchestra and rhythm section with the tenor saxophone in a work described as a "meeting point between jazz and classical music." Brown, who retired in 2021 as chairman of the music department at Northgate High School in Walnut Creek, received the Paul A. Shaghoian Jazz Educator Award honoring excellence in jazz education from the California Music Educators Association in 2019. While at Northgate, he developed award-winning jazz band programs that inspired countless students. Under his baton, the Northgate High School Jazz Band won first place in the High School Big Band Division at the Next Generation Jazz Festival, sponsored by the Monterey Jazz Festival, for five consecutive years and performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival six times between 2014 and 2019. and performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival six times between 2014 and 2019. Since 2014, Brown has been co-director and educational consultant for the Big Band of Rossmoor.

The orchestra also announces its 2024-2025 Yen Liang Young Artists Competition, open this year to solo wind, brass, and percussion players born after April 1, 2001. The application (due by August 9, 2024) and competition details are found on the DSO's website at www.diablosymphony.org. The orchestra is proud to highlight the superb talents of area young musicians, and looks forward to featuring the winner at its first concert of the 2024-2025 season, to be held on October 20, 2024 at the Lesher Center for the Arts. That concert, geared for families, will also feature Peter and the Wolf by Sergei Prokofiev, narrated by Walnut Creek's Cindy Silva.     

Tickets for these concerts are available at the Lesher Center for the Arts box office (925-943-7469; 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek) or online through the DSO’s website at https://www.diablosymphony.org. Discounts for youth and groups of 10+ seniors are available, and children 12 and under are admitted free of charge to all concerts. Tickets will also be available at the door.

At Town Hall Theatre!

"Yes, and Wine!" Adult Improv

Next Classes: Sunday May 19th & June 16th from 7:00pm-9:00pm

Tickets/More Info: https://www.townhalltheatre.com/adult-education

Are you ready to try something new and have fun doing it? Join Town Hall Theatre for a beverage and play some improvised theatre games. These one-night-only classes are a great way to stretch your boundaries, meet new people, and have some laughs! Classes are open to improvisers of all skill levels. Purchase a 2024 Yes, And Wine Flex Pass today for preferred Flex Enrollment for three classes AND a Town Hall wine tumbler!

New Voices Series: Lucía Fuentes

June 14th-22nd

Tickets/More Info: https://www.townhalltheatre.com/lucia-fuentes

A heinous crime of the state in Mexico triggers global indignation. To honor the victims and their legacy of peace and justice, spiritual guru Hernán Espinoza walks Japan’s Shikoku pilgrimage path. A Buddhist nun who guides Shikoku pilgrims has a vital interest in Hernán’s journey yet senses she must test his intentions. When lured to a dangerous shortcut, Hernán suffers a breakdown. Not knowing whether he is alive or dead, a man or a woman, a saint or a sinner, in Japan or not, he continues to the end, which, on the circular Shikoku path, is also the beginning.

Town Hall Education 2nd-5th Grade: Finding Nemo KIDS

June 29th at 6pm, June 30th at 2pm

Tickets/More Info: https://www.townhalltheatre.com/2024-25-calendar/finding-nemo

Finding Nemo KIDS brings a vibrant underwater world to life on stage in a story full of family, friendship, and adventure. Performed by THT's Summer 2nd-5th grade Education class.

Town Hall Education 6th-12th Grade: Little Women

July 20th at 7pm, July 21st at 2pm

Tickets/More Info: https://www.townhalltheatre.com/2024-25-calendar/little-women

Jo March gives us her greatest story: that of the March sisters, four dreamers destined to be imperfect little women. Performed by THT's Summer 6th-12th grade Education class.

Town Hall Education 2nd-5th Grade: Miss Electricity

July 27th at 6pm, July 28th at 2pm

Tickets/More Info: https://www.townhalltheatre.com/2024-25-calendar/miss-electricity

Ten-year-old Violet is determined to show the world, not to mention the cool kids at school, just how special she is. Performed by our Summer 2nd-5th grade Education class.

New Exhibition at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center! Michael Robinson: The Spirits of Babylon

Now through May 19, 2024

The Lafayette Public Art Committee proudly presents the return of Oakland-based contemporary painter Michael Robinson for an exhibition of his latest creations in the Homework Room of the Lafayette Library and Learning Center, located at 3491 Mt Diablo Blvd, Lafayette. Prepare to be captivated by 'The Spirits of Babylon,' a collection showcasing three of his large-scale pieces, characterized by vibrant hues and enigmatic symbolism. Robinson's artistic journey is deeply rooted in spirituality, evident in his abstract figurative and modern surrealist styles. Drawing inspiration from artistic luminaries such as Kandinsky, Miro, Warhol, Klee, and Basquiat, Robinson's work promises a captivating experience for art enthusiasts. Don't miss this bold exploration of color and symbolism!

The exhibition will run until May 19 and is open to the public during library hours. Admission is free. Visit www.michaelrobinsonart.com to see more of the artist’s work. 

Saint Mary’s College Museum of Art

Current Exhibites at Saint Mary's College of California Museum of Art

Vignettes: Select Views of SMCMoA’s Permanent Collection 

Through May 12, 2024

Vignettes bring forward curated windows into the permanent collection explored through themes, eras, and art history. Highlights include recent gifts into the permanent collection as well as the legacy collection of landscapes by William Keith. Featured works include modernist European prints by Georges Braque, Marc Chagall, Ursula Fookes, Kathë Kollwitz, Marie Laurencin, and Jacques Villon: California waterways by Armin Hansen, Louis LaBrie, Bertha Stringer Lee, Gottardo Piazzoni, and Lundy Siegriest; pop art by Corita Kent and Andy Warhol; abstract expressionism by Seong Moy and Ruth Wall; and contemporary art by Joe Doyle, David Maxim, Diane Rosenblum, and Kal Spelletich.

Chimeric: Student Capstone Exhibition

Through June 23, 2024

Opening Celebration: Thursday, May 23 at 4 p.m.

Across mediums of digital art, painting, photography, sculpture, video, and mixed media, Chimeric bridges time, place, and perception. The artists hold a mirror up to the onlooker and invoke introspection on what it means to be human, commenting on identity, culture, and reality. Featured Artists include Alexa Andris, Olivia Bianic, Andrea Drenik, Bailey Drenik, Celeste Escobedo, Keaton Gershen-Lewis, Jade Johnson, Gabrielle Ly, Kylie Pavlik, Soren Peterson, Dominico Russo, and Kjersti Strong.

Harmonia Rosales: ΩA Omega Alpha 

Through June 23, 2024

Omega Alpha brings forward a visually enriched narrative that reimagines the traditional imagery of the black body in Christian art to empower lesser-known subjects through the canon of art history. Interweaving the oral histories and stories of Afro-Cuban religions, Rosales' depictions of the black body illuminate parallels in classical Western narratives while confronting the historical language of the Eurocentric male gaze. Referencing Greek, Roman, and European imagery, Omega Alpha inverts the narrative of how faith and orthodox-based stories are told, envisioning a new beginning rising from an end.

Lisa Congdon: Hold it Lightly

Through June 23, 2023

Illustrator and fine artist Lisa Congdon's current work, Hold it Lightly, explores themes of joy, liberation, and radical inclusion, displayed on printed matter featuring her bold, colorful illustrations and hand-lettering. Created in conversation with pop artist Corita Kent, Congdon's work reflects the profound personal impact of revolutionary joy. 

The Decisive Moment: PhotoUrbanism in San Francisco Bay, 1930s-1960s 

Through June 23, 2024

Photographers interested in the ‘decisive moment’ often utilized the camera’s innate mechanical qualities to capture real-time experiences and explore modern art concepts of pattern, contrast, and light through the lens. The practice dominated mid-20th-century photography in the West. From the construction of the Bay Bridge to the revolutionaries of the Black Panthers, this exhibition features work by Ruth-Marion Baruch, John Gutmann, Pirkle Jones, Peter Stackpole, Brett Weston, and Max Yavno, whose photographs captured moments that came to define social urban history in the San Francisco Bay Area. This exhibition is organized in collaboration with Pier 24 and the Pilara Family Foundation.

Diablo Regional Arts Association

View Bedford Gallery’s new exhibition, Re-Discovering Native America: Stories in Motion with The Red Road Project!

On view through June 23, 2024 at Bedford Gallery is their new exhibition Re-Discovering Native America: Stories in Motion with The Red Road Project!

Be among the first to experience the remarkable stories of resilience and the richness of modern Native American cultures explored in this timely exhibition. Learn more at www.bedfordgallery.org.



Artwork: The Red Road Project, Fast Eddie and Two Braids; United Tribes Powwow in Bismarck, North Dakota; Sage in the Colorado River; Julian with his son Elijah.

Lafayette’s Favorite Dinner Party – The “Taste of Lafayette” Restaurant Stroll! Friends, Food & Entertainment

Tuesday, May 21, 2024, 5:30pm-7:30pm

**Music/entertainment and bar will open to both ticket holders and non-ticket holders starting at 5pm on May 21. Pickup a picnic and join us in Lafayette Plaza!

Join us for an exciting lineup of live entertainment! Starting at 5pm, Generations in Jazz will delight you with a 40-minute set of classic jazz standards, followed by a second set featuring special guest musicians at 6pm. Don’t miss New You Dance Center‘s dynamic performances at 5:45pm and 6:45pm, showcasing everything from Salsa to Tap. The live shows wrap up at 7pm, but the energy continues with DJ Aj Rogers spinning tracks until 7:30pm. Don’t miss out!

THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT!!  Want to be one of the first to know when tickets for the next event go on sale? Click here to subscribe.

Want to “win” tickets to the 2024 Taste of Lafayette? Register for a reminder for our new event, Lafayette Downtown Artisan Walk on Saturday, May 11, 1pm-4pm!

View our Dining & Shopping Guide HERE.

The Park Theater Trust

Any Ted Lasso fans out there? If so, you’ll certainly recognize the banner now adorning the Park Theater marquee and smile at the message it conveyed to that lovable gang of footballers who, despite so many odds, overcame every one of them to emerge as true winners in the end. Well, the all-volunteer, nonprofit Park Theater Trust also continues to BELIEVE in its mission to light up the Park once more for Lafayette, Lamorinda, and the entire East Bay and it appears many of you do as well because, thanks to you, TPTT has PASSED $8 MILLION in its overall $12 million campaign to protect and revitalize the Park Theater!

Be sure to check out TPTT’s continued progress on its thermometer graphic in front of the Park (courtesy of Minuteman Press, who also BELIEVES!), along with the prominently displayed Donor Honor Roll posters. In addition to raising $1,048,271 from our wonderful community in 2023, a second local family very generously donated $1 million in early 2024. TPTT was also the recipient of a very successful fundraiser recently hosted by long-time TPTT supporter Leila Douglah and Douglah Designs, which brought in over $100,000!

TPTT continues huge forward progress with its design team led by Arcsine Architecture, and plans to initiate the permitting process with the city of Lafayette in just a few weeks. 

Here are a few dates to add to your calendar where you can show your support for TPTT and the Park Theater Renovation campaign: They will be a-poppin’ at Taste of Lafayette on May 21 and Rock the Plaza on Fridays, June 14 and 21. 

Don’t ever stop BELIEVING!! Please visit www.parktheatertrust.org for more information, including renovation renderings and how to donate to this community-wide initiative.

PPF Summer Camp presents Into The Woods Jr!

This weekday summer camp is geared towards our incredibly talented young performers in elementary and middle school. 

Camp runs June 3-22, Monday-Friday 9:00 am to 2:00 PM with performances on Friday, June 21 and Saturday, June 22 at 3:00 PM.

Registration is now open, please see the web site for registration link and info, peterpanfoundation.org.

Acoustic Music Events in Lafayette this Summer

Nonprofit Chamber member Front Porch Music invites you to a series of enriching acoustic music events in Lafayette this summer. Stay updated by joining our mailing list at frontporchmusic.org. Front Porch Music celebrates many traditional genres — folk, Americana, bluegrass, blues, country, and old-time.

Open Mic Nights at Hurst Farm

These summer open mic nights provide a wonderful opportunity for musicians to connect, play guitar, sing, and inspire. They are held on Saturdays at 7 PM: May 25th, June 15th, July 20th, and August 17th. Space is limited, so please sign up in advance at frontporchmusic.org.

Summer Music in the Grove

Bring a picnic dinner and a lawn chair to enjoy live music from the gazebo on Saturday, July 13, 2024, from 6 PM to 8 PM in the Oak Grove behind Lafayette Christian Church located conveniently off the Lafayette-Moraga Bike Path with free parking in the church lot.

Front Porch Presents on August 2nd

This lively acoustic music series is in partnership with the historic Town Hall Theatre. Experience the musical talent of Front Porch Music and friends on Friday, August 2nd at 7 PM. Tickets will be available at townhalltheatre.com. Lobby music downstairs in advance of the show. Join the frontporchmusic.org mailing list for early notice.

MEMORIAL DAY VIGIL

MAY 27, 2024 AT 5:30

The Lafayette Hillside Memorial annual Memorial Day vigil will be held Monday, May 27^th, 2024 at 5:30, and is open to all. There will be songs, poetry and remarks by local representatives. Please park in the Lafayette BART parking lot across the street and use the crosswalk. 

Welcome – MIKE MUNNELY

Remarks - Janet Thomas, Lynn MacMichael 

Remarks - MARK DE SAULNIER

Song - LAURA ZUCKER, “MEMORIAL DAY” 

Poem - FRED NORMAN, READ BY OWEN NORMAN

Remarks – ROXANNE Lanihan, GOLD STAR MOM

Remarks- Wei-Tai Kwok, vice-Mayor

Remarks – Gina Dawson, Mayor

“TAPS” – MAURICE LEVITCH 

Summer Camps & Programs, Student Enrichment, Schools & Kids’ Activities!

Time to sign up for summer! Check out opportunities from these fellow Lafayette Chamber members.

Have a program that should be listed? Email us!

Pre-College Arts Residency

Teens can Design, Create, and Exhibit this summer when registering for the Atelier Arts residency. Susan Goldie Art has recently expanded their offerings to include fashion sewing and arts education. Building on the legacy of sewnow!, and Susan’s International mixed media art practice, Atelier residency provides an in-person creative retreat experience to teens. It’s an opportunity to spend a week creating portfolio-worthy art and sustainable fashion you love, to work in the pro maker space with expert coaching, and to meet new friends with a creative mind set. Visit https://www.susangoldie.com/about-atelier-pre-college-residency to learn all about it, or email Susan: info@susangoldie.com.

Throw on your raddest 80's prom dress and join us for 80's Bingo! 

Saturday, June 1, 2024, 5:30-9pm, 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette

Price: $60 if registered before 5/10, $70 after

Your ticket includes a buffet dinner, 8 games of Bingo, raffles, 80's tunes and fun. Beer/Wine/Soda available for purchase. All proceeds benefit Sustainable Contra Costa and Diablo View Rotary. Register Here

Moraga Art Gallery "Vistas & Hues" Art Exhibition

June 5-August 18, 2024

VISTAS and HUES, the Moraga Art Gallery's new exhibit, opening on June 5th, pairs two artists with contrasting styles but the same messages: Art is multi-dimensional. Kerima Swain's paintings of scenic California balance the outer beauty of the natural world with the depth of her inner reflections. Meanwhile, Angelica Samame creates colorful and whimsical stylized portraits of women going about their daily lives. 

Also on display will be several dozen artworks by a score of member and guest artists: painters, ceramicists, printmakers, jewelry makers, woodworkers, photographers, and more. Featured as a guest artist, Irenka Kudlicki specializes in brilliantly colored, eye-catching, abstract acrylic paintings.

To celebrate the show's opening, the public is cordially invited to a free reception from 5:00 to 7:00 pm on Saturday, June 8 at the gallery, 432 Center Street in Moraga's Rheem Shopping Center. Come to see the art, meet the artists, hear live steel-drum Caribbean music played by Harry Best, and enjoy a glass of wine, light snacks, all in the company of other art lovers. For further information, visit http://www.moragaartgallery.com or call 925-376-5407.  

Image: Spring on Mount Diablo No. 5 by Kerima Swain

Main Street Arts in Martinez

Spring greeted Main Street Arts, an affiliate Gallery to Lamorinda Arts Alliance on March 19th. We have been blessed with the beauty of green hills, glorious flowers and the glory of new growth. Spring has also greeted Main Street Arts with a new exhibit of paintings and artwork starting May 2nd. Come and visit us to check out these original new works of art by our eleven members. We are open Wednesday through Saturday from 11:00 to 4:00 and Sunday from 10:00 to 2:00.

Our guest wall will feature the outstanding multimedia and oils of artist Ebba Navas. Ebba will showcase her talented work in oils inspired by her namesake, Swedish grandmother. She is also knowledgeable in other mediums: lost wax casting, photography, ceramics and watercolor to name just a few. Ebba has won numerous awards throughout the country and now resides in Benicia. "Love of all artist media is buried in my genetic code", Ebba Navas.

Please join us for First Fridays. Lots of shops on Main Street on Martinez stay open late every First Friday.

Every month Main Street features of drawing for a free beautiful artistic creation by one of our eleven members. Come in and sign up. Main Street Arts is located at 613 Main Street, Martinez.

Image: Artwork by Ebba Navas.

A NIGHT OF FUN AND PHILANTHROPY

Unleash your creativity while supporting a great cause at our upcoming “After Dark” event! Hosted at I Heart Art Studio in Pleasant Hill, this unique fundraiser is a collaboration between I Heart Art and The Giving Exchange (TGE), offering an evening of artistic exploration and community building. Embrace the theme of 'connection' as we bring together art, community, and global impact under one roof.

Studio Managers Amy and Abby will set up process-oriented art projects at different tables – you can expect an array of engaging activities, including button making, tin designs, watercolor and acrylic painting, embossing greeting cards, and water-based spray paint. Delight in a variety of adult-friendly art and craft activities, all art supplies provided, while enjoying complimentary wine and tunes spun by a live DJ. DJ Nate (Instagram @dots_bayarea) will be spinning the good tunes, and he's also available to teach the basics to anyone curious about trying out the DJ setup.

As part of TGE’s mission of creating lasting impact, we'll showcase art pieces from Kenya and offer attendees the opportunity to create artwork that will be carried to Kenya with our team in August to our friends and beneficiaries in country. As you engage in artistic expression, you'll be helping to fuel initiatives that promote education, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development around the world.

With only 30 spots available, get your ticket now to secure your place at this unforgettable event. Come join us for a night of creativity, connection, and making a difference!

Date: Friday, June 7, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM, I Heart Art Studio, 15 Vivian Dr, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523. Ample free parking available. Tickets: $50 per person (includes two drink tickets and all art supplies.) https://www.iheartartstudio.co/tge

Sculpture in the Garden

The Ruth Bancroft Garden annual Sculpture in the Garden exhibit is coming back! This will the 30^th year of this show and sale running from June 15^th through August 11th. We will be featuring over 30 artists and over 80 sculptures throughout the Garden and all proceeds from sculpture sales are split between the Garden and the Artists. Support local artists and our nonprofit organization by visiting the Garden during open hours – 9am to 4pm Tuesday through Sunday – or attending one of our after hours events! Learn more about the event on our website: https://www.ruthbancroftgarden.org/sculpture-in-the-garden/

Learn more and register at lafsmw.org.

Help the Community Foundation Fund Its 2024 Grants

The Community Foundation of Lafayette recently received more than 50 grant applications for its 2024 Excellence Grants cycle. They need your help funding the more than $560,000 in grant requests from deserving local nonprofits that identify challenges in our community and work tirelessly to find solutions. 

The nonprofits they support are solving problems every day whether it be:

• homelessness
• food insecurity
• senior service needs
• helping children feel confident and valued
• providing the gift of the arts that enrich our community

Recently, the Community Foundation mailed its May Mailer that provides more information about the impact your donation makes on these nonprofits. If you missed the mailer, you may click HERE to read it on line.

Attention Artists in Lafayette and Nearby Areas: Showcase Your Art in Lafayette's Galleries!

Are you an artist looking to display your work in Lafayette? The City of Lafayette Public Art Committee welcomes proposals for exhibitions in our downtown galleries. Opportunities include spaces like the Library Public Art Gallery, the library’s Homework Room, and the Town Hall Theatre Lobby Gallery. Have 3-D work? We have a Public Art Display Case at the library waiting for your artwork! Who Can Apply: Local artists are encouraged to submit proposals. Deadline: Rolling application process, so send in your proposals anytime! How to Apply: Visit lovelafayette.org/PublicArt for application details. Don't miss this chance to exhibit your talent and contribute to Lafayette's vibrant art scene! Join us in bringing creativity to our community.

Calling all downtown Lafayette property owners!

Ready to add a splash of color and creativity to your property? The Public Art Committee is on the lookout for mural sites on downtown's public-facing walls. Whether it's a blank canvas waiting to be filled or a space in need of a fresh makeover, we want to hear from you! The Lafayette Downtown Mural Program is offering funding and logistical support to bring vibrant murals to downtown. Visit www.lovelafayette.org/murals and click the Call for Murals Sites flyer link for details. Property owners with high-visibility sites downtown can express interest by completing the Mural Site Host Statement of Interest form. Let's beautify Lafayette together!