The Center for the Art: Visual arts is a cornerstone

THE CENTER FOR THE Arts in Grass Valley has become a hub for arts throughout the Sierra foothills, drawing world-class talent to the region.

Performers have included Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Aaron Neville, Brandi Carlile, Rosanne Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Will Durst, Judy Collins and the Smothers Brothers.

In more than 150 performances a year, The Center attracts patrons from Nevada County, as well as Placer County, Sacramento, Tahoe, Reno and the Bay Area. It is a shining example of a regional economic engine for the arts.

The Center also is dedicated to promoting Nevada County artists. Managing the Fall Colors Open Studios Tour of Western Nevada County is a case in point.

“Presenting visual arts and promoting artists is at the cornerstone of The Center’s mission,” says Julie Baker, executive director of The Center.

“I am continually amazed at the quality and breadth of talent we have here in the foothills,” adds Julie, a former art gallery owner who has re-energized The Center since she came aboard in 2009. “We are so blessed to live in a community with so many artists.”

The Center has two art galleries, one in the main lobby and a newer space, the Granucci Room gallery with track lighting, wood floors and floor-to-ceiling display walls. The galleries are dedicated to Nevada County artists, and it is free for them to exhibit. The Center receives a commission on works that sell.

“We change the exhibits every three weeks,” says Julie. “Managing the gallery calendars is a labor of love for The Center and a benefit for our patrons when they come to a show.”

Granucci Room gallery

Photo credit: Lisa Redfern and Stephen Schaffer