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.
Latination 12 Returns Sept 5–6!
Latination, one of Bakersfield’s most beloved cultural festivals, is back! Join us September 5–6, 2025, in the East Chester Arts District for Latination 12—a two-day celebration of Latinx art, music, food, and community. The event features an art show curated by Don Martin, live music by Mento Buru, and a festive block party on East 18th Street. Presented by the Arts Council of Kern and Metro Galleries, Latination honors the vibrant voices and creativity of our Latinx community.
We are looking for
- Artists
- Vendors
- Sponsors
- Volunteers
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.
To ensure the mural reflects the voices of Bakersfield residents, the community was invited to vote on their favorite designs from Wendy’s concepts. With the survey now complete and a clear selection made, the project is moving into the next phase—bringing the mural to life!
Stay tuned for updates, including opportunities to participate in the Community Paint Day, where locals will have a hands-on role in creating this inspiring artwork. Together, we’re making Saunders Park a destination for both nature and creativity!
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.
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!
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.Â
supporters
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.Â
