welcome to the
Arts Council
of Kern
Come explore the arts
with us!
We work hard to make art accessible to all our residents and pride ourselves on highlighting traditional and contemporary artists in and around the county. We are your starting point for discovering new experiences and programs that will unlock your creativity and introduce you to new ideas.
Join Art Sherwyn on Your Artistic Journey – October 11th
On Becoming an Artist
Art Sherwyn
$20 Class Fee / ACK Members FREE
SAT / OCT 11, 2025 / 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Calling Artists and Poets!
Intertwined – Woven Words & Works
Exhibition Opening: November 7, 2025
Location: Arts Council of Kern – West and East Gallery
The Arts Council of Kern invites artists and poets to submit work for our upcoming exhibition, Intertwined – Woven Words & Works.
This show will highlight weaving in all its forms—fiber, natural materials, stories, and poetry—bringing together multiple cultures and generations.
Thank You for Making Latination 12 a Success!
From the colorful art and live music to the dancing in the courtyard and the incredible food, Latination 12 was a true celebration of Bakersfield’s Latin community and culture. None of it would have been possible without the artists, performers, vendors, sponsors, volunteers, and you, the community, who showed up to make this festival unforgettable.
We are deeply grateful to our volunteers, city officials, local businesses, and our generous sponsors, for helping bring Latination back to downtown Bakersfield. Your support allowed us to showcase the creativity and diversity that makes Kern County shine.
Thank you for joining us in honoring culture, community, and connection. Together, we proved once again that Latination is more than just an event—it’s a movement of pride, unity, and celebration.
We can’t wait to see you again at Latination 13!
—The Arts Council of Kern
The Latination 12 Art Exhibition Is Open! 
The energy of Latination 12 continues in our gallery! The Latination Art Exhibition is now on view through October 23rd, 2025 at the Arts Council of Kern.
Explore bold and inspiring works by Latino artists from across the region—art that celebrates culture, creativity, and community. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome to experience this vibrant showcase.
Arts Council of Kern Gallery — 1020 18th Street, Bakersfield, CA
Thank you to our generous sponsors!
Lots of Fun Happening at Saunders Park!
The City of Bakersfield Recreation & Parks Department, in partnership with the Arts Council of Kern and California Arts in Parks, is bringing a vibrant new mural to Saunders Park! This exciting public art project, created by local artist Wendy Johnson, will celebrate the beauty of nature, community, and the outdoor spaces that inspire us.
Stay Tuned for More Fun at Saunders Park!
Mark your calendars for the final event on Friday, October 10th, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. This family-friendly evening will combine creativity and play—enjoy hands-on art activities and join in the fun! Come out, bring your friends and family, and be part of the growing arts community at Saunders Park!
Shop local at Makers Market inside the Arts Council of Kern! Discover handcrafted goods by Bakersfield artists and take home a piece of our creative community.
Open Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM at 1020 18th Street.
INTRODUCING SECOND SATURDAY!
Second Saturday is part of a larger, city-wide celebration of local art and small business that takes place one Saturday each month in downtown Bakersfield. As part of this grander event, the Arts Council of Kern hosts our own vendor fair from 9 AM to 1 PM inside our building at 1020 18th Street.
It’s a fun and creative opportunity for artists, makers, and vendors to sell their work, meet the community, and even create live during the event. Since we’re not usually open on Saturdays, Second Saturday gives artists a special extra day each month to connect, showcase, and make sales in a festive setting.
If you’re interested in joining us as a vendor, click the button below to apply!
Become a Member With Us!
Become a Member of the Arts Council of Kern
When you become a member of the Arts Council of Kern, you’re not just joining a creative community—you’re helping build it. Your membership directly supports local artists, youth programs, public art projects, and arts education throughout Kern County.
As a member, you’ll enjoy invitations to exclusive events, gallery openings, and community celebrations, along with opportunities to connect with fellow art lovers and cultural leaders. Most importantly, you’ll be playing a vital role in ensuring the arts continue to thrive across our region.
Support the arts. Celebrate creativity. Make a lasting impact.
Support Local Artists at First Friday’s ArtWalk
Hosted by the Arts Council of Kern, the ArtWalk will showcase a diverse array of talents, featuring artists, artisans, and vendors, creating a dynamic atmosphere for attendees. Engage in hands-on experiences such as jewelry making and storytelling, making this event a unique and enriching way to celebrate the month of creativity!
ArtWalk takes place in downtown Bakersfield on the first Friday of every month, from October through June.
The cost to participate as an artist-vendor is $35 per month.
Support Local Artists at First Friday's ArtWalk
Hosted by the Arts Council of Kern, the ArtWalk will showcase a diverse array of talents, featuring artists, artisans, and vendors, creating a dynamic atmosphere for attendees. Engage in hands-on experiences such as jewelry making and storytelling, making this event a unique and enriching way to celebrate the month of creativity!
ArtWalk takes place in downtown Bakersfield on the first Friday of every month, from October through June.
The cost to participate as an artist-vendor is $35 per month.
