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.
SOUND
SOCIAL
A FREE NETWORKING NIGHT FOR BAKERSFIELD & KERN COUNTY MUSICIANS
BUILDING A STRONGER COMMUNITY TOGETHER
The sound social is a free networking event created for musicians in Bakersfield and Kern County to connect, collaborate and grow together. Whether you’re a solo artist, in a band or part of the local music industry, this is your chance to meet like-minded creatives, share ideas and be a part of a stronger music scene.
MEET. CONNECT. SHARE YOUR SOUND.
10 OPEN MIC SPOTS, FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED
ICEBREAKER GAMES
CONNECT WITH LOCAL ARTISTS & BUSINESS OWNERS
JULY 22, 2026 | 5 – 7 PM
1020 18TH STREET, BAKERSFIELD, CA
FREE ENTRY
Stories on the Sidewalk is an outdoor walking tour that brings Bakersfield and Kern County history to life through live theatrical reenactments. Stroll through downtown and encounter notable historical figures, local legends, and unforgettable stories portrayed by talented actors right here in Kern County. Created through a collaboration of local writers, historians, theater groups, civic organizations, and downtown businesses, this family-friendly event offers an entertaining and engaging journey into our community’s rich past.
SEPTEMBER 4 & 5
Be Part of Latination 13!
Submit Your Artwork
Share your creativity with the community by submitting your artwork for consideration in the Latination 13 exhibition. Showcase your talent as part of this vibrant celebration of Latin art and culture.
Become a Vendor
Bring your products, artwork, food, or organization to thousands of festival attendees by becoming a Latination 13 vendor. Join our lively marketplace and connect with the community.
Become a Sponsor
Support one of Kern County’s premier cultural celebrations while showcasing your business to a diverse audience. Explore sponsorship opportunities and help make Latination 13 possible.
Volunteer
Be part of the team that brings Latination 13 to life! Volunteers help create a welcoming and memorable experience for artists, performers, vendors, and festival guests.
Please submit all documents and materials to Don Martin at curator@kernarts.org
JOIN OUR CREATIVE COMMUNITY
Artist Directory
Our Artist Directory connects local artists with opportunities, resources, and the community.
Be Discovered
Get your work seen by the community and potential collaborators.
Stay Informed
Recieve updates on exhibitions, calls for art, and Arts Council events.
Support Local Arts
Help strengthen and grow Kern County’s creative community.
$20 / YEAR for non-members | FREE for Arts Council members
Sign up today and be part of Kern County’s arts community!
Our new exhibit is open for viewing!
OPEN 9 AM – 5 PM
The Arts Council of Kern invites Kern County to attend the upcoming exhibit titled “From the Desert to the Sea.” This exhibition will showcase landscape paintings that capture the breathtaking beauty of Kern County and the Central Coast, highlighting the unique environments from the arid desert to the fertile valley and the expansive Pacific Ocean.
EXHIBIT DETAILS
Title: From the Desert to the Sea
Opening Night: First Friday June 5, 2026 | 5PM – 8PM
Location: Arts Council of Kern Gallery, Downtown Bakersfield
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.
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.
Charter School
Creative Charter Classes with Em Radmacher
Artful Learning Experiences for Students
Discover our upcoming charter school classes led by talented instructor Em Radmacher! These hands-on sessions are artful, crafty, and designed to spark creativity while helping students build a deeper understanding of artistic techniques and creative expression. From playful projects to skill-building exercises, there’s something for every young artist to explore.
The full list of classes is available on the next page — click below to learn more!
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.
