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.
INSPIRE2 – Album Listening Session & Creatives Night!
Join us on January 15th at 6:00 – 8:00 PM for a free, immersive creative event featuring engaging speakers, live music and rap, hands-on art creation, and a special listening session with Jovon Dangerfield and Jeanette Richardson.
Arts Council of Kern
January 15, 2026
Meet & Greet: 5:45–6:00 PM
Event: 6:00–8:00 PM 1020 18th St, Bakersfield, CA
Seating is limited
Register: http://www.kingdomactivists.com
The Arts Council of Kern invites local artists to submit artwork for Cutting Edge: Beyond the Canvas, a gallery exhibition celebrating alternative and unconventional art forms. From custom skateboard decks to metalworks, sculptural builds, mixed-material creations, and more, this show highlights artists who push the boundaries of traditional mediums and redefine what art can be.
SUBMISSION FORM:
MORE INFO:
Community Grants Workshop
with Executive Director Jeanette Richardson
Grant Writing for Community Impact – Workshop Overview
Learn the foundations of successful community-focused grant writing in this informative and accessible workshop led by Arts Council of Kern Executive Director, Jeanette Richardson. This session provides a clear introduction to the grant writing process, including how to identify funding opportunities, craft compelling narratives, outline measurable outcomes, and prepare strong application materials.
ENROLL IN CLASSES WITH TOP INSTRUCTORS
Get involved in courses and learn from professionals with years of training and experience
Art Sherwyn
Ryan Rickard
Em Radmacher
2025-26 Learning and Events
Members get FREE seat access | Everyone must pay materials fee
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.
We are honored to be among the recipients of the California Arts Council grants! This funding will help us continue our mission of arts access, advocacy and education. The CAC’s support for the arts across California is invaluable. We believe that the arts make us who we are in California!
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.
