Arts & Galleries

09/01/2010

Weekly drawing and painting classes in Hemet
A weekly drawing and painting class begins Sept. 13. Students ages 5 and up will be introduced to various media. All skill levels are welcome.

Classes will be 4-6 p.m. on Mondays at the Hemet Valley Art Association gallery, 2115 E. Florida Ave., Suite D in Hemet.

Cost is $15 per class and includes all materials.

Register at the gallery or by calling teacher Mary Hemje at 951-207-8172.

08/26/2010

Rebuilding arts colony near Temecula shows off
Wildfires that swept through the Temecula hills six years ago did not melt the drive and determination of the Dorland Mountain Arts Colony staff and supporters.

Volunteers have helped to build two cabins in accordance to fire code standards and the road that leads to the hillside hideaway has been paved.

08/25/2010

Danger, decadence delight
Harold Fox was known from childhood as "the kid that draws."

Now 70, he's known for the narrative paintings that showcase his drawing skills.

Once he hit retirement, his production increased enormously. And he recently decided, with the encouragement of family and friends, to start exhibiting his work.

"I had no idea people would be so interested," said Fox, of Riverside.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Harold Fox

08/24/2010

Art, literature, plays sought for arts council competition
The Diamond Valley Arts Council is accepting entries of two- and three-dimensional works of art, photography, poetry, short stories, one-act plays and musical performance for the juried exhibition that will be featured during the 5th annual Festival of the Arts, Oct. 15-17.

08/23/2010

'Star Trek' draw less than stellar
A little more than two months into the run of the Riverside Metropolitan Museum's "Star Trek: the Exhibition," attendance appears to have been less than stellar, but city and museum officials say they expect it to pick up significantly during the remaining six months.

08/19/2010

Open house offers glimpse into artists' environment
Dorland Mountain Arts Colony in Temecula invites the public to visit this Sunday afternoon, for a chance to see what resident artists have been producing.

The arts colony will hold an open house from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. There's no admission or parking charges.

08/18/2010

Artist Spotlight: John Brownfield's love of art history
Redlands artist John Brownfield enjoys exploring different styles and is inspired by different eras of art history. The human form continues to challenge and inspire him.

"He is an outstanding draftsman, with a solid command of the human form and all the gestures and signs of emotion it can produce," said fellow artist Jeff Owens.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: John Brownfield

08/17/2010

Hemet workshop teaches how to paint on fabric
Constance Peters will teach how to paint on fabric at workshops Saturday at the Hemet Valley Art Association gallery, 2115 E. Florida Ave., Suite D, in Hemet.

Participants will create and 11-inch by 60-inch designer scarf. The cost is $30, which includes all materials.

The workshops are from 9 a.m. to noon. Advance registration is required.

Information: 951-927-2556.

--Brian Rokos

08/13/2010

Artful Insight into Everyday Life
The spark that ignited Randy Wright's photography goes back decades to when he purchased his first camera, a 35mm single lens reflex, while he was stationed in Korea in the Army in the mid-1960s.

He enjoyed learning about the camera while he was in the service. But after his enlistment ended, so, too, did his time for taking photographs.

Photo Gallery: Artist spotlight: Randy Wright

Hemet Valley Art Association announces winners
Teddie Oatey and Lee Moler were repeat monthly Best of Show winners in the Hemet Valley Art Association's July contest.

Oatey won for her watercolor of a girl in a garden, receiving her second fine art award this year. Moler won for his photo of waterfowl, earning the photography honor for the third time this year. He credits his ability to capture "just the right light."

08/12/2010

Sitcom star puts on art show in Big Bear Lake
Around the time he walked out of his executive office at the CBS Studios for the last time, Dwayne Hickman decided that it was time for his life to take a turn in a completely different direction.

For much of his life, the former child actor who would later become a television executive had worked at a fast pace and been dependent on so many others in order to find success in his career.

Inland etiquette maven explains the mango fork
Maura Graber's worldwide search for a rare fork has led to the publication of her book "Let Them Eat Cake: The Strange Saga of the Mango Fork & the Unique Dining Habits of the Dutch."

08/05/2010

Art at the beach
The 44th annual Sawdust Festival features the fine art and craft of more than 200 artists. Media include painting, jewelry, ceramics, clothing and textiles, wood and metal sculpture, photography, and more. You can watch live demonstrations or just go to admire all the artwork, with a little shopping thrown in.

Retrospective event in memory of Idyllwild pioneer, artist is scheduled Saturday
A retrospective program and exhibit devoted to the late Lora Woodhead Steere, an artist, naturalist and Idyllwild pioneer, is scheduled Saturday in the mountain community where she inspired generations of artists and nature seekers.

Glass collection on display in Redlands
A recently donated collection of Mary Gregory glass is on permanent display at the Redlands Historical Glass Museum. The 79 pieces, dating as far back as the 1870s, were donated by Margaret Smith and her brother, Thomas Linden, of Newport Beach.

Early work influences artist's work
When David Aguilar studied art, film and psychology at USC, he decided to remove the background from his paintings; a move that helped him create his signature look.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: David Aguilar

Art Institute sets open house in San Bernardino
The Art Institute of California-Inland Empire has scheduled an open house for 9 a.m. Saturday at 674 East Brier Drive in San Bernardino. The school will offer facility tours, information and the opportunity to meet the creative forces behind Disney -- Pixar's World of Cars Online.

The school offers an education in media arts, culinary arts, fashion and design.

Information: 1-800-353-0812.

08/04/2010

Hemet Valley Art Association selling art and supplies at Aug. 11 meeting
Members of Hemet Valley Art Association will sell art supplies, crafts and their art at its meeting from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Aug. 11 at the Simpson Center, 305 E. Devonshire Ave., Hemet.

The public is invited and refreshments will be served.

Information: 951-652-4592.

--Brian Rokos

08/02/2010

Sea No Evil art show brings stars to Riverside
The Sea No Evil art show attracted a wide swath of art lovers, artists, music fans and environmentalists to the Riverside Municipal Auditorium.

Photo Gallery: Sea No Evil

07/29/2010

'Sea No Evil' turns activism into art
Four years ago, Erin and Derric Swinfard realized that it was time to do something to make a difference in the world for their child.

So the Riverside couple sat down and, after watching some online videos of the work that the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society was doing, realized they had found the area in which they wanted to make an impact.

It seems every year that impact is growing exponentially.

A true Renaissance man
Kevin McCarthy is a visual artist, guitar player and writer. He has directed and produced theater performances.

He excels at raising funds in his role as CEO of the United Way of the Inland Valleys and he excels in his creative pursuits during his personal time.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Kevin McCarthy

07/23/2010

A Sculpture garden
Artist Dore Capitani's repertoire consists of a mix of metal work -- custom mailboxes, furniture and other functional art -- garnished with a generous helping of large fine sculpture.

Capitani shows his work, and that of other Idyllwild area artists, at his Mountain Metals and Sculpture Garden in Mountain Center.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Dore Capitani

Create basket designs with the San Bernardino County Museum
Creative basket class

Stretch your creative muscles at a basket design drawing event at the San Bernardino County Museum on Saturday.

Families who visit between 11 a.m.-4 p.m. can draw basket designs using the museum's special exhibit "Generations of Symbols" as inspiration. Drawings will be displayed in the Hall of History.

Sea No Evil brings art and music together for a fourth year
EVIL WAYS

Sea No Evil, quite possibly the hippest event of the year in Riverside proper, is back for another visit July 31 at the Riverside Municipal Auditorium.

The art show, a fundraiser for the Sea Shepherd Organization, will feature a speech from Capt. Paul Watson; you might recognize him from "Whale Wars."

07/22/2010

San Jacinto arts center hosts artist's reception Saturday
A reception for artist Charles Knox is scheduled from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday at the Esplanade Arts Center in San Jacinto.

07/20/2010

Hemet Valley Art Association announces July's Best of Show winners
Annie Childs won Best of Show in fine art with her "Still Life" in pastel, and Constance Peters won Best of Show in photography with her "Hands of a Native American Basket Weaver" in the monthly contest of the Hemet Valley Art Association.

07/15/2010

Hemet woman returns to love of painting
When Annie Childs' husband died last year, she put down her brushes and capped her oils. The artist couldn't paint without crying because she thought of Billie each time she tried.

It wasn't the first time that being overwrought with emotion caused her to abandon her beloved hobby. Living in Washington in the early 1990s, she took oil painting classes from Gordon Bechtel for about five years.

Distinctive Old-West artistry
Corona artist Alfredo Rodriguez learned to use a brush and pigments at the same time he was learning to speak.

He still remembers painting portraits and school projects with a set of watercolors that his mother gave him when he was just 6 years old.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Alfredo Rodriguez

07/16/2010

Target sponsors family arts activities at two Inland museums
Art fun for families

Families can explore two Inland museums for free this weekend thanks to Target's Arts & Wonder Free Family Event. The giant retailer is partnering with more than 120 museums and cultural organizations in 30 cities nationwide to offer families the chance to explore and learn about art.

07/10/2010

Native American arts showcase starts Sunday in Idyllwild
A Native American Arts Festival, including a tribute to a Hopi silversmith and teacher, is planned at Idyllwild Arts beginning Sunday.

The festival at venues around the campus showcases artists, tribal elders and scholars addressing art and culture issues in the mountain setting. It includes free programs and exhibits as well as fee-based workshops on subjects from pottery to Navajo inlay jewelry.

07/09/2010

Temecula man creates mural of biblical proportions
Many artists dream of creating something that will stand the test of time.

For artist Ron DiCianni, he hopes his painting, "Resurrection," is that piece.

It is believed to be the world's largest contemporary design of the famous moment from the Bible. It also has been featured in magazine articles and television shows.

"This will impact generations after I'm gone," he said proudly.

07/08/2010

Audio File: Music and art collide at SoCal events
MUSIC AND ART

Art-loving music fans, pay attention.

Riverside is combining music and art in two events this month and if you head out to Los Angeles, you can see a lot of work from some famous musicians.

Music mag Alternative Press is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a group art exhibition in Los Angeles.

Artist Charles Knox showing work, meeting public in San Jacinto
The Diamond Valley Arts Council is hosting an exhibit of local artist Charles Knox through August at the Esplanade Arts Center, 2181 W. Esplanade Ave. in San Jacinto.

Knox's themes include musicians and the socioeconomic ills of urban life. Knox is donating half of the proceeds from the sale of his work toward establishing an art program for students.

Audible art walk set for Saturday in Idyllwild
The Incredible Audible Art and Studio Tour event organized by Art Alliance of Idyllwild is scheduled from noon until 5 p.m. Saturday in the mountain community.

A map for the free walking tour is available at the Village Centre gazebo at Village Center and North Circle drives off Highway 243 beginning at 10 a.m., according to a news release.

07/07/2010

Art is part of summer for Redlands students
Ghosts haunted the workroom at Redlands Art Association on a recent morning.

It was part of summer camp for young art students.

Teacher and artist Kristy Bergeson soaked a piece of cheesecloth in white glue, stretched it out, then draped it over a plastic bottle to bring her ghost to life -- or death.

Earlier, she showed the group how to build haunted houses out of cardboard and sticks.

07/03/2010

Artist Spotlight: Silk painting does not require artist to be perfect
For artist Antoinette Hanson, it was love at first sight. She had dabbled in many art forms over the years, including watercolor, ceramics and life drawing, but when she found silk painting, she found her passion.

07/01/2010

Big reputation, but thinking small now
The Riverside Community Art Association is displaying new works by longtime Riverside artist Joanna Mersereau.

The watercolor artist and esteemed member of the Inland arts community continues to build upon her long established talent and reputation at 81.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Joanna Mersereau

06/27/2010

Chalk artists brighten streets at Old Town painting festival
Sounds of jazz and the scraping of chalk against asphalt filled the air Saturday as artists worked on colorful murals along Temecula's Main Street.

A mother-daughter team of Robin and Kayla Burney of Temecula used bright orange hues as they completed "Daylight Dragon."

Kayla, 15, said she has been going to painting festivals most of her life.

Photo Gallery: Temecula Street Painting Festival

06/23/2010

Artist Spotlight: Performance artist Koyote The Blind performs art form he calls "The Telling"
Koyote The Blind, portrayed by performance artist Ricardo Flores, is a mesmerizing figure who spins words, sounds and gestures together in a presentation of poetic auditory dance.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Koyote The Blind

06/22/2010

New leadership energizes Idyllwild arts scene
The Art Alliance of Idyllwild is bringing innovation to its well-known events through its new board of directors.

AAI board member and publicity chairperson Lea Deesing said the diversified board has the energy, cohesiveness and talent to make the events more successful than ever. She said a good example is having board member and retired professional chef Gary Kuscher provide catering for all its events.

06/20/2010

Star Trek enthusiasts get first glimpse of Riverside exhibit
Fans began to gather as early as 9 a.m. Saturday to be among the first to pass through the new Star Trek: The Exhibition on the opening day of its eight-month run.

Trekkies young and old gathered outside of the Metropolitan Showcase in downtown Riverside eager to get a glimpse of elaborate costumes from their favorite characters or purchase quivering tribbles.

Photo Gallery: Star Trek exhibit opens

06/18/2010

Art was always a calling for local arist
When Julie Evans was growing up in Loma Linda in San Bernardino County, an artist neighbor invited her over every Sunday to paint with her.

"I started when I was 11, really enjoyed it and it dominoed from there," Evans said.

After graduating from Redlands High School, in 1984, however, she moved toward the "practical" career and ended up in law school

Paperweight exhibit to go on display Sunday at Pass-area museum
"Magnificent Visions in Glass," a new exhibit at the Edward-Dean Museum & Gardens, opens Sunday. A reception will be held at 2 p.m. at the museum, 9401 Oak Glen Road in Cherry Valley.

The collection of paperweights will be on display Fridays through Sundays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Sept. 5.

06/17/2010

Star Trek boldly comes to Riverside
As many as 40,000 visitors are expected to beam up -- or more likely, drive -- to Riverside over the next eight months to see "Star Trek: The Exhibition," which opens Saturday at the city museum's Metropolitan Showcase.

Lawyer 'slings mud' artistically
A lot of lawyers have been accused of slinging mud at the opposition.

Yucaipa's David Porras would probably welcome that charge.

Porras is a partner with the Riverside law firm of Varner and Brandt. On weekends, he transforms into a master craftsman, working on the potter's wheel in his home studio and glaze-firing porcelain bowls and vessels.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: David Porras

Banning Center for the Arts posts new summer hours
Banning Center for the Arts has new summer hours.

It's open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and from 1 to 8 p.m. Fridays through Aug. 31.

The center features a gallery and hosts art classes.

The center is at 130 N. San Gorgonio Ave., Banning.

Information: 951-849-3993.

--Erin Waldner

06/16/2010

Corona group seeks art for exhibit
The Corona Art Association is looking for a few good artists and photographers for an upcoming exhibit.

The deadline is today to enter the exhibit "Buildings, Past or Present." Artists can show their work from 1 to 6:30 p.m. at the association, 510 Foothill Parkway, Corona.

A reception is scheduled from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. June 26. For more information, call Cathi at 951-371-2447.

--Leslie Parrilla

06/11/2010

Mixed media artist resists specific labels
Riverside resident April Durham is a creative practitioner who resists specific labels, instead preferring to blur the borders between creative disciplines and genres -- otherwise known as a mixed media artist.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: April Durham

06/10/2010

Civil War book collection could be boost for Murrieta Library Friends
Sometimes you're surprised with astonishing treasure.

People frequently donate books to the Friends of the Murrieta Library, a fundraising organization that supports library programs.

But several months ago, an anonymous donor left a box for the group containing 25 books about the American Civil War.

The remarkable part?

County museum offers 'Swinging at the Grove' event
"Swingin' at the Grove," an evening event inspired by the Cocoanut Grove nightclub scene of the 1930s and '40s in Los Angeles, is planned for July 10 at the San Bernardino County Museum.

Idyllwild hosting live painting, art show June 12-13
Visitors can view art being produced and displayed this weekend at the Plein Air Festival and 3-Dimensional Art Show and Gallery Tour sponsored by the Art Alliance of Idyllwild.

From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, artists will be scattered throughout the forest, painting scenes. Visitors can enjoy appetizers as they move among the artists.

06/09/2010

Largest festival of disabled artists set
Jesse Higman's paintbrush isn't a brush at all. With limited mobility in his hands because of a car crash 27 years ago, this Seattle-based artist created a method all his own.

Art workshops for children available Saturdays in Banning
Art workshops for children are held 10:30 a.m. to noon every Saturday at Banning Center for the Arts. The topics are sculpture, clay, painting and mixed media.

The cost for each four-week session is $40, plus $10 for art supplies.

For more information call instructor Ann Kato at 951-797-0333.

--Erin Waldner

06/06/2010

Exhibition about race opens at Riverside Metropolitan Museum
Race is biological fiction, but it plays a very real role in the structure of our society. That is the point of the new exhibition at the Riverside Metropolitan Museum.

"RACE: Are We So Different?" opened June 3 on the museum's second floor.

06/04/2010

Koi and gardens, what could be better
On Sunday, the Inland Koi Society will present a tour of seven diverse Koi ponds and gardens located in the Riverside area.

06/02/2010

Artist profile: Ken Stansbury's 'incidentals'
Art arrived early in Ken Stansbury's life, when he was enrolled in art classes at the Arlington Art Guild at age 5. His parents nurtured his creativity and he learned about drawing by watching his mother sketch faces in magazines.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Ken Stansbury

Plein air painting demonstration set in Hemet
David Messer, a plein air painter of California Vineyards, will demonstrate at the Hemet Valley Art Association's meeting at 1:30 p.m. June 9 at the Simpson Center, 305 E. Devonshire Ave. in Hemet.

The longtime Temecula resident worked in the television industry as animator for 12 years. He is now an instructor at UC Riverside and at workshops. Messer works in watercolor, oil and pastel.

Temecula-area workshops to help street festival artists
Two upcoming free workshops will help artists during the Old Town Temecula Street Painting Festival scheduled for June 25-27.

05/29/2010

Beaumont artist takes first place in Orange Show exhibition
Beaumont artist David Fairrington recently took 1st place in the citrus category of the National Orange Show 2010 All-California Juried Art Exhibition.

He was awarded $700.

Fairrington's oil painting of an orange will be part of the permanent collection at the National Orange Show Events Center in San Bernardino.

--Erin Waldner

05/28/2010

Art show to benefit Oak Grove Center
An open house for the "UNRAVELING" art show is set for next weekend.

The show will feature the work of sisters Danae and Ariel Wilson. Admission is free and light appetizers will be served.

A portion of the proceeds from purchased art will benefit the Oak Grove Center for Education Treatment & the Arts in Murrieta. The center treats at-risk youths.

05/26/2010

Artist Spotlight: Leora Lutz's art and writings reveal a wide range of interests
Riverside artist Leora Lutz is one part hunter-gatherer and another part organizer-editor as she weaves materials and bits of information into her visual narratives.

She often focuses on her concept of landscapes as metaphors and her curiosity about the short-lived lines that man creates through the landscape.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Leora Lutz

05/25/2010

Norman Rockwell collection is topic of talk in San Jacinto
Stewart Mortensen will speak about the Norman Rockwell collection on exhibit at the Esplanade Arts Center during a reception from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday at the center.

Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for seniors. Children under age 17 are free when accompanied by an adult.

05/20/2010

Artist Spotlight: Jack Culley creates complex interdisciplinary art
Inland artist Jack Culley mixes geology, geography, mathematics, art history and nostalgia.

His work sometimes includes a hint of social commentary as well. Culley, of Riverside, groups his work into three categories -- the Altarpiece Series, the Perception Series and the Last Great American Landscape Series.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Jack Culley

Riverside museum offers Smithsonian Week presentations
Riverside Metropolitan Museum will host presentations about "Adornment" as part of Smithsonian Week in Riverside.

Frank Hailer, genetics researcher at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and National Museum of Natural History, will present "Adornment in Birds," about shaking tail feathers, colors and sounds in mating birds, at 5 p.m. Thursday at the museum, 3580 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside.

05/17/2010

Saturation 2010 infiltrates Riverside May 27-31
ARTS INFILTRATION

Saturation, a homegrown underground arts and music festival, returns to Riverside starting Thursday.

Events include workshops, art and live music through May 31 at various locations around the city's downtown area.

05/13/2010

Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art shows masters
BELLAGIO GALLERY EXHIBIT

'Figuratively Speaking: A Survey of the Human Form" opened May 1 at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art.

Works by Pierre-August Renoir, Pablo Picasso, Alberto Giacometti, Joseph Cornell, Roy Litchtenstein, David Hockney, Judith Shea, Bill Viola, Yoshitomo Nara, and Vanessa Beecroft are included in the exhibit of 30 paintings, photographs and sculptures.

'Star Trek' beams down to Riverside museum
When "Star Trek: the Exhibition" lands here next month, the Riverside Metropolitan Museum will be boldly going somewhere it never has before: the realm of blockbuster exhibits.

If the exhibition does as well as officials hope, the expected 40,000 visitors and $800,000 gross revenues would make it the biggest, most profitable show in the 85-year-old museum's history.

Artist seeks 'comfortable' compositions
Martin Tobias is a jack-of-all-media and a prolific master of his art explorations.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Martin Tobias

05/08/2010

An artist's world turned around at age 8
At 8 years old, Martha Schafer had a life-changing experience when a neighbor showed her how to paint.

"Painting became my whole world after that," said Schafer, whose work is being featured through May 22 at the Redlands Art Association gallery 215 E. State St., Redlands.

Bedpans on display at Redlands glass museum
Some people collect vintage teapots. Others zero in on old handbags or ceramic poodles.

Then there's Mary Mook, who has made a hobby of gathering up antique hospital bedpans and urinals.

Mook recently donated her collection of about a dozen such pieces to the Redlands Historical Glass Museum, which is displaying them through the end of June.

05/07/2010

Beaumont High art show displays student work
Tori King recently participated in her first art show.

"It's amazing," the budding artist enthused. The 17-year-old showed a drawing and painting of lilies.

King is a senior at Beaumont High School, the setting for Wednesday night's art show. A variety of student artwork was displayed and student musicians and thespians performed. Any Beaumont High student could participate.

05/06/2010

Savor local artist's work while sipping wine
Food and wine make a natural pair. The owners of Temecula's Tesoro Winery, Buzz and Kimberly Olson, are throwing art into the mix, too.

As part of its So Cal Artist Series, Tesoro Winery will host Fallbrook artist Richard Powers at its tasting room in Old Town Temecula at 7 p.m. May 13. The event is free.

'Heart-mending' novel say those who have read 'In the Company of Angels'
Thomas Kennedy, prize-winning author of "Greene's Summer" and other books, read from his newest work recently at Cal State San Bernardino and at Mt. San Jacinto College's Menifee Valley campus.

Kennedy is currently on a national book tour promoting his latest novel, "In the Company of Angels." His local appearances were arranged by Duff Brenna, an English professor in Menifee.

05/05/2010

Artist Spotlight: Oakes' paintings reflect his travels and his daily life in the Inland area
Time and place hold profound meaning for artist Joe A. Oakes. His sense of place is rooted within memory of past travels and within the areas of the Inland Empire he visits in his daily life. He also paints from his memories of traveling throughout Mexico and the California coast.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Joe A. Oakes

Watercolorist to demonstrate craft in Hemet
Janice Cipriani-Willis will demonstrate at the Hemet Valley Art Association's meeting at 1:30 p.m. May 12 at the Simpson Center, 305 E. Devonshire Ave. in Hemet.

Cipriani-Willis is a watercolorist who lives at the Dorland Mountain Arts Colony in Temecula.

05/04/2010

Latino art on display in San Bernardino
Latino art will be on display Saturday during an exhibit Saturday at the Norman Feldheym Central Library in San Bernardino.

A reception, sponsored by the Inland Empire Latino Art Association, will be held from noon to 3 p.m. in the library's upper gallery, with refreshments and food available. The art work will be on display in the upper and lower art galleries.

05/03/2010

Temecula decides not to create artwork policy
Temecula has decided against crafting a written policy to deal with art displays in city-owned buildings following two recent incidents in which artwork was removed from a library and a box office.

Instead of using a policy, city Community Services Director Herman Parker said he or someone designated by him or the city manager will select artwork that can be shown in city buildings.

05/01/2010

Artists in Redlands to capture city's agricultural settings
The agricultural aspects of Redlands will be interpreted by local artists in the annual plein-air art show co-sponsored by the Redlands Conservancy and the Redlands Art Association. It's titled "Working Properties."

The show takes place from Sunday to Friday at the art association gallery, 215 E. State St., Redlands. A public reception for the artists will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

04/30/2010

Art show planned in Grand Terrace Sunday
The 26th annual Grand Terrace Art Show will be held Sunday in the Community Room at City Hall.

Oil, watercolor, acrylic, collage, photography, mosaics, bonsai trees and hand-painted china will be on display, as well as quilted fiber art, needle art, glass and ceramic tile art, digital art, carved walking sticks and fine woodworking.

The event is open free to the public from 1 to 4 p.m.

04/29/2010

Author Debbie Macomber finds her art in crafts
Debbie Macomber may be a bestselling author, but she has no problem laughing at herself.

In a recent phone interview, she quoted a letter from a devoted reader: "You're my favorite author. You put me to sleep every night."

Macomber will be sharing more of her favorite letters from readers on Thursday at the UC Riverside Palm Desert Graduate Center.

Downtown Riverside First Sundays season to end with a bang
The community outreach program Family Fun Day on First Sundays in downtown Riverside is wrapping up its 2009-2010 season. Free family activities will take place at several Riverside organizations Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.. The new season will start again Oct. 3.

Here are some highlights of this Sunday's activities:

04/28/2010

For Cherry Valley artist, the eyes have it
Victoria Henley attributes her love of the arts to her mother-in-law.

Several decades ago, her mother-in-law introduced her to oil painting, which led Henley to pursue art in an array of media.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Victoria J. Henley

04/21/2010

Book embraces bounty of Inland birds
As books go, this one is for the birds -- in the best possible way.

"Backyard Birds of the Inland Empire" is an easy-to-use field guide to the many feathered creatures that make their homes in the region.

04/22/2010

Evening of art, food in Hemet benefits Valley Restart Shelter
An evening of art and food will benefit Valley Restart Shelter, which assists homeless or nearly homeless individuals and families.

Guest artist Charles Knox headlines the event, which will be 5:30-8:30 p.m. on Saturday at Solera Diamond Valley Lodge, 1645 Paseo Diamante in Hemet.

04/17/2010

Art exhibit raises water awareness
An exhibit at the Mt. San Jacinto College Art Gallery is raising awareness for water conservation.

"Water in the Desert" showcases 42 photographs taken at places such as Coachella Valley and the Salton Sea by students from Mt. San Jacinto College and Copper Mountain College in Joshua Tree.

04/15/2010

Artist Spotlight: Wildlife artist Lindsey Foggett's work far beyond typical wildlife painting genre
Wildlife artist Lindsey Foggett's charming British accent grips you as she weaves stories surrounding her artistic life.

Foggett particularly delights in telling of one pivotal moment early in her artistic career when an art professor was critiquing one of her miniature wildlife paintings and said, "You will never make a living painting this sort of stuff!"

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Lindsey Foggett

04/13/2010

Banana museum splits for new Salton Sea location
The International Banana Museum and its 17,000 fruit-themed items have found a new home, at the Salton Sea.

After the quirky collection was booted from its home in a Hesperia exhibit center, owner Ken "The Bananaman" Bannister went looking for a buyer. His eBay auction, with a $7,500 opening bid, didn't work, but the publicity surrounding his search did.

04/09/2010

San Jacinto reception showcases water photos
An opening reception for a traveling photo exhibit, "Water in the Desert," is scheduled from 3 to 5 pm. Saturday at Mt. San Jacinto College's Art Gallery on the San Jacinto campus, according to a college news release.

Western art show begins in Old Town Temecula
The Western and Wildlife Open Juried Art Show will debut Friday and run until May 22 in Old Town Temecula.

The show, sponsored by the Temecula Valley Art League, will feature Old West and wildlife-themed art.

The show is at The Merc, 42051 Main St., Temecula.

Information: 951-303-8100.

--Jeff Horseman

04/08/2010

Artist's work on exhibit in Beaumont
After more than 60 years of oil painting, Roy Morrissey's own collection is down to several western-themed pieces that are on exhibit at Jack's Fine Art and Framing in Beaumont.

"Many collectors have him in their collection; it's a great investment for people," said gallery owner Jennifer Dunaway. "It's very hard to get a chance to see his work and any art collector will know him."

Combining beauty, function in sculpture, furniture
Sculptor and furniture designer Louie Tozser blurs the line between art and craft.

He creates objects that serve a utilitarian purpose and others that revolve around a sense of design and achievement in response to the inspiration he finds in the world around him.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Louie Tozser

Hemet art gallery to host Photoshop, camera classes
Jim Watters will teach Photoshop techniques from 9 a.m. to noon and how to use a digital camera from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday at Hemet Valley Art Association Gallery, 2115 E. Florida Ave. in Hemet.

The cost is $3 per class.

Information: 951-652-4592.

--Brian Rokos

Food, art fundraiser in Hemet to benefit Valley Restart Shelter
An evening of gourmet food tasting and an art show on April 24 will benefit the Valley Restart Center in Hemet. The center assists people who are newly homeless or at risk of being homeless.

The event will take place from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Solera Diamond Valley Clubhouse, 1645 Paseo Diamante (west of the corner of Warren Road and Mustang Way).

04/07/2010

Cal State San Bernardino joins in Ring Festival LA with new exhibit
Eva Kirsch wants to scare you. And she has just the Brunhilde to do it.

The life-size prop, which belongs to the LA Opera, sports a wild mane of black hair and a frightening white mask. It looks more like a witch than the heroic Valkyrie of Wagner's "Der Ring des Nibelungen" opera on which it is based.

Artist who returned to art, now set to be shown
A couple of years ago, Hearrice Dixon's daughter gave her an artist's kit complete with canvas, brush and paints. That was the impetus she needed to rekindle a love of painting that had been simmering since high school.

04/02/2010

Idyllwild Area Historical Society reaches fundraising goal, leading to construction of an archive center
They previously converted a garage into an office and temporary archive, but soon members of the Idyllwild Area Historical Society will watch an archive and research center building take shape behind the society's museum that will offer more lasting protection to artifacts and delicate film negatives that help tell the story of the San Jacinto Mountains communities.

Art, photography show set for Hemet library
"An evening of art" will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on April 17 upstairs at the Hemet Public Library, 300 E. Latham Ave. in Hemet.

Original art and photos will be sold, and there will be art demonstrations. Scholarships will be awarded to high school students who display their art.

The suggested donation for admission is $5. Proceeds benefit scholarships and the Hemet Valley Art Association gallery.

04/01/2010

Riverside students show off artwork
Riverside's Washington Elementary School will show off the artistic talent of its K-6 student body Thursday, April 1 at an exhibit in Riverside Art Museum's Taylor Family Gallery.

Photo Gallery: Washington Elementary School Art Show

Artist Ray Serna draws on early encouragement
Temecula artist Ray Serna began drawing in grade school and remembers his fifth-grade teacher, Mrs. Platner, offering praise and encouragement.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Ray Serna

03/31/2010

Young artists' exhibit set for April 20 at Cal State San Bernardino
More than 50 San Bernardino County students will exhibit their work at the 12th annual Young Artists' Gallery from April 20 to May 1 at Cal State San Bernardino.

A jury selects works by students enrolled in visual arts courses for the countywide Young Artists' Gallery.

03/30/2010

The Western Science Center museum in Hemet may see promised federal money
An executive at the Western Science Center is cautiously hoping that the regional museum in Hemet next year will see some of the $14 million promised to it by the federal government 10 years ago.

03/27/2010

Time for High Desert's International Banana Museum to split
For $7,500, you could be the new owner of the International Banana Museum, including its custom yellow jumpsuit, golf putter and thousands of other fruit-themed items.

Art demonstration set for Hemet art association meeting
HEMET

Art demonstration at Simpson Center

Jill Jones of Brain Waves Art Studios will demonstrate her craft at the Hemet Valley Art Association's meeting at 1:30 p.m. April 14 at the Simpson Center, 305 E. Devonshire Ave. in Hemet.

03/26/2010

Annual art show sees big crowds, excited families
Friends and family of nervous art students packed the Art Alliance Gallery on Thursday night for the 48th annual Press-Enterprise Riverside County High School Art Show at the Riverside Art Museum.

The art competition, sponsored by the museum, The Press-Enterprise and Bank of America, had more than 300 submissions this year from 65 schools in Riverside County.

Photo Gallery: 48th annual Press-Enterprise Riverside County High School Art Show

It's astounding! Rocky Horror, rock 'n' roll and racing legends
Here's Inland Arts' weekly look at Things to Do in Riverside. For more things to do, log on to inlandarts.com or inlandsocal.com/iguide

Rocky Horror

03/25/2010

Photography exhibit planned in Banning
Banning Center for the Arts will present a free photography exhibit March 30 through April 28. Photographs by David Valenzuela, Roy Azarnoff, Patrick Backer and members of the Sun Lakes photography group will be on display.

The center is at 130 N. San Gorgonio Ave. and is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Information: 951-849-3993.

- Erin Waldner

03/24/2010

Capturing the unnoticed
Ira Yawnick is a gregarious, energetic photographer who thinks nothing of driving to Palm Desert, Torrance, Moreno Valley, San Pedro, Fallbrook and Redlands several times in the same week.

He logs thousands of miles in search of inspiration and the perfect subject, such as rare desert blooms in Anza-Borrego, rambunctious kids at street fairs and elongated shadows cast across historic neighborhoods.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Ira Yawnick

03/21/2010

Rock art presentation set Monday in Banning
There will be a presentation on prehistoric rock art at 6 p.m. Monday at the Dorothy Ramon Learning Center, 17 W. Hays St. in Banning.

Donations are requested at the door.

Steve Freers, an expert in this field, will be giving the presentation. A press release says Freers spoke of rock art in the area of Mt. San Jacinto in 2009 at the Learning Center. It was standing-room only.

--Erin Waldner

03/20/2010

Tahquitz Rock, Idyllwild's Mecca for climbers, is focus of exhibit
Jane Levy wanted to celebrate the 50th anniversary of her first climbs of Tahquitz Rock, a mecca for rock climbers that towers above the mountain community of Idyllwild.

So she invited some of her fellow climbers from the 1960s for a reunion at the Rainbow Inn in November with little publicity, to the angst of the climbers who lamented missing the event on Web forums.

03/19/2010

Nonprofit Spotlight: Jefferson Transitional Project
The recipe for positive outcomes in mental health community programs often rests with the art and magic of believing that recovery and healthy living are attainable.

One such program that has achieved significant success with this philosophy is Jefferson Transitional Project.

Moreno Valley Arts Commission hosts street fair
Moreno Valley Parks and Community Services and the Moreno Valley Arts Commission will host "Art au Soleil," a street fair showcasing Moreno Valley artists and performers from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Stoneridge Ranch Towne Centre, 27110 Eucalyptus Ave.

03/18/2010

MURAL MAGIC AND MORE
Artist Robin Knilans Morrow is a whirlwind of smiles and motion as she paints outdoors plein-air or climbs atop a scaffold to put the finishing touches on a 40-foot mural.

Morrow started her professional art career at 14 when she began accepting commissions to paint portraits. She later painted murals and signs for the Disneyland Hotel, and El Torito, Claim Jumper and Rusty Pelican restaurants.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Robin Knilans Morrow

03/13/2010

In San Jacinto, teacher, former students paint together
Most great teachers love to see their students soar to new heights. Sandra Robinson is no exception.

After retiring from more than 20 years of teaching art, Robinson and six of her former students formed a consortium of artists known as the Valley 7.

Since June 2008 the local women have regularly met to critique each others' works or share accomplishments in the art world.

Young Temecula artist headed for his brush with fame
When John Woolley flies to New York later this month to exhibit his work at Artexpo, he will be joining 500 other artists at the biggest trade show of its kind in the world.

Like the others, John will play tourist and visit all the attractions. Unlike the others, he will get in for the children's price.

03/12/2010

Mini art goes on display in Redlands
The 41st Annual Multi-Media Mini Show, sponsored by the Redlands Art Association, will be on exhibit through April 8 at the Gallery and Art Center, 215 E. State Street, in downtown Redlands.

The group plans a grand opening party today from 5 to 7 p.m.

Organizers say the "mini show" concept means the exhibit is limited to art pieces of 14.5 inches, including base or frame. All media is accepted.

03/11/2010

Bellagio installs docents in gallery
Gallery guides

Docents (trained guides) have been added in the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art to educate visitors about the art on display.

The docents are available from Wednesdays through Sundays at 3:30 p.m. Each group is limited to the first 20 attendees. The docent led group tour lasts about 45 minutes and are complimentary with the purchase of any Gallery admission.

La Quinta Arts Festival showcases new, returning artists
About 230 artists are showing their work at the 28th annual La Quinta Arts Festival at the La Quinta Civic Center through Sunday.

Visitors viewing the art also can watch acrobatic performances, listen to live music, and savor wine, beer and food.

St. Patrick's events, March 12-17, 2010
RIVERSIDE COUNTY

COLTON

Liam's Irish Pub, pre-Paddy parties today and Saturday; Wednesday, 11 a.m-midnight, live bands all day, $10 cover after 5 p.m. 21 and older. 1089 S Mount Vernon Ave., Colton. 909-422-9900

Riverside

03/10/2010

Picturing nature In old way -- film
In today's computerized world, it's nice to find an artist still clicking away with a camera and film.

Idyllwild's Trish Tuley takes pictures the old-fashioned way to capture the beauty of nature as it occurs.

"I am self-taught, continue to shoot with film and use no colored filters," she said.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Trish Tuley

Beaumont sculptor works to release beauty hidden in stone
Turning an ordinary-looking stone into a work of art is something Dennis Armatis takes pride in doing.

"When you carve away its rough exterior, it is almost like releasing the spirit of the stone -- and its beauty," he said.

Armatis, of Beaumont, began carving stone about 2½ years ago, after completing a 20-year career with Riverside County law enforcement.

Opera singer to perform at Riverside Art Museum
Los Angeles Opera singer Michael Gallup will join the La Sierra University Opera Theater at 7 p.m. Thursday to perform portions of Mozart's "The Magic Flute" at the Riverside Art Museum, 3425 Mission Inn Ave.

San Bernardino County Museum lecture to focus on tribes' history
Michael Contreras Jr., a member of the Torres Martinez Band of Desert Cahuilla Indians, will talk about the history of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians at 7:30 p.m. March 24 at the San Bernardino County Museum.

03/09/2010

Art show 'out there' in open desert
From the outside, with its broken or boarded windows and gaping holes in the wooden walls, it looked like any number of abandoned shacks in Wonder Valley, east of Twentynine Palms.

Video: Art event addresses desert concerns

Photo Gallery: Dry Immersion 3 Desert Project

03/07/2010

Opera, dinner in Hemet will benefit Ramona Bowl
HEMET

Opera, dinner to aid Ramona Bowl

A night of opera will be held on March 19 in Hemet to benefit the Ramona Bowl.

The event takes place at Dattilo's Ristorante Italiano at 2288 E. Florida Ave. Cocktails begin at 6 p.m. with dinner at 7. The cost is $50 per person. Cocktail attire is requested.

03/05/2010

Pass guild to participate in two-day Palm Springs quilt show
About 50 members of the Pass Patchers Quilt Guild are displaying their handiwork.

They're one of three guilds participating in a quilt show today and Saturday at the Palm Springs pavilion.

Some 250 quilts will be on display -- some of them large, others small. Setting up for the show Thursday, participants hung quilts in a rainbow of colors and an array of patterns.

Artists from seven University of California campuses make a mark in the desert
Artists from seven University of California campuses will gather Saturday amid the creosote and hollowed-out cabins of Wonder Valley east of Twentynine Palms for a desert-inspired art event.

The remote landscape will be host to art installations, musical performances and at least one video work. The public event includes 19 artworks created by 24 artists.

Return to high school by way of time travel
Rod Norville has come up with a novel way to reconnect with his Riverside Poly High School classmates.

Norville, a science fiction writer, has written a book, "A Man Beyond Time," set during his high school years. And he's inviting the class of 1952 to a book-signing Saturday at Barnes & Noble in Riverside.

03/04/2010

Nude models help students at MSJC's Menifee Valley campus capture human form
Mayuri Dasi's bare flesh became a textbook Wednesday.

In a classroom with a screen blocking the view from outside the front door, 30 or so aspiring artists studied and sketched Dasi as the fully naked woman struck poses on a platform.

Video: Artists stress the importance of the nude portrait

Photo Gallery: MSJC's nude figure sketching class

'Adornment' exhibit delves into history of transforming one's appearance
Styles change. Remember the '80s? Throughout history, people have used a variety of adornments, such as clothing and accessories or piercings and tattoos to make a statement.

The Riverside Metropolitan Museum is delving into the history behind these statements in its current exhibit, "Adornment," on display through February 2011.

Video: ADORNMENT Exhibit

Photo Gallery: The Making of Riverside Metropolitan Museum's 'Adornment'

Bold and direct - Tom Fong's work on display in Loma Linda
Tom Fong, a native Californian artist recognized nationally and internationally for his bold, colorful, and direct watercolor paintings, will demonstrate his technique Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Loma Linda Cultural Arts Association monthly meeting held at the Loma Linda Senior Center.

03/03/2010

Artist dives into deep end
Loma Linda artist Donna Morin knows how to dive into the deep end of the pool. She uses graphic sensibilities and abstracted symbols in her postmodern paintings, including her current series of work that is about swimming, both literally and metaphorically.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Donna Morin

Fundraiser will benefit fire-damaged Hemet Theatre
A fundraiser Thursday will benefit the Hemet Theatre.

The owners of Sweet Baby Janes, a new barbecue restaurant at 124 S. Harvard St. in downtown Hemet, will donate 30 percent of the proceeds received between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.

The single-screen theater's interior suffered smoke and water damage in the Jan. 20 fire that destroyed Ellen's Nails and Spa, Elite Flowers and Document Solutions.

03/01/2010

Palm Desert film screenings continue with "Herb & Dorothy"
The Public Art Documentary Film Screening series continues Mar. 18 with the screening of "Herb & Dorothy." The screening will be followed by a conversation with two local art collectors.

Going forward for Ramona Bowl, it is more Hemet, less Hollywood
The operators of the Ramona Bowl say they are trying to reconnect with the community and focus on their core event -- the Ramona Outdoor Play -- after the venue almost went broke last year amid declining attendance and the staging of other events that failed to produce much revenue.

02/27/2010

Criticism continues over removal of art in Temecula
City guidelines for an upcoming art show at a city-owned building says Temecula will have the final say on what works are displayed, prompting more criticism from an anti-censorship group.

02/25/2010

Museum looks at history of body adornment
Riverside Metropolitan Museum's newest exhibition will explore how humans have adorned their bodies throughout the centuries.

"Adornment" will open Thursday with a reception from 6 to 9 p.m. at the museum, during the weekly downtown Riverside ArtsWalk event.

San Jacinto gallery to show paintings and other art
As a volunteer at Mt. San Jacinto College Art Gallery, Ann Logan-Kenner has seen quite a few exhibits. Starting Saturday, she will see her own art displayed at the gallery.

"It will be very nice to share my work with other people who appreciate art," said Logan-Kenner, 77, of Hemet.

Logan-Kenner is one of 13 artists whose artwork will be featured at the gallery's 2010 Art Associates Show.

Curtain of innocence in southwest Riverside County
Censorship fights have a long history in southwest Riverside County, where plays, portraits and even dictionaries spurred showdowns pitting freedom of speech against community morals.

Most recently, a national anti-censorship group criticized Temecula officials last week for ordering an artist to remove a portrait of a nude woman from a city-owned building.

Temecula says 'sorry' to artist after works not allowed to be displayed
The city of Temecula has apologized to the artist whose depiction of a nude woman in a portrait was not allowed to be part of a show in a city-owned building.

02/24/2010

Riverside artist finds inspiration in castoffs
Riverside artist Harriet Singer finds art in what many of us might pass up as litter or debris.

"I think rust is beautiful," states Singer. "I like to let the old stuff be old stuff and use it in its original form while creating something new by combining pieces in unique ways."

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Harriet Singer

Menifee author is up for mystery book award
Menifee author Jeri Westerson has readers on the edge of their seats as the ending of her medieval novel "Serpent in the Thorns" approaches.

But an even better ending for Westerson may be unveiled March 13 at the Omni Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.

02/23/2010

Artist says paintings were pulled from Temecula library
Another local artist has stepped forward to say her paintings were removed from an exhibit in a city-operated facility in Temecula.

New University of Redlands center ready to show
After being dedicated last week, the University of Redlands' new 42,000-square- foot Center for the Arts is ready for its close-up.

The two-story, Ann Peppers Hall, home to the art and art history departments, includes rooms designed for graphic arts, digital and studio photography, dark-room processing, lithography, typography and art education.

02/20/2010

Noted writer to speak at Menifee campus
Award-winning poet Steve Kowit will do a reading at Mt. San Jacinto College's Menifee Valley campus on Thursday.

Kowit has received a National Endowment for the Arts fellowship in poetry, two Pushcart prizes, the Tampa Review prize and several other awards, according to a college news release.

Writers wanted for a new writers' magazine
The Crafton Hills College literary magazine is looking for a few good men and women to submit poetry, short stories and art work.

The Sand Canyon Review is a campus publication that seeks submissions from the local and national artistic community, said Ryan Bartlett, English professor and adviser to the magazine staff.

Arts school headmaster to retire in 2011
William M. Lowman, president/headmaster of Idyllwild Arts Academy high school and administrator of the school's summer program for children and adults, will retire next year after a 25-year tenure.

Faith Raiguel, board chair of Idyllwild Arts Foundation, announced his June 30, 2011 retirement in a news release.

02/21/2010

Winning art comes from the VA Medical Center patients
Winners of the Jerry L. Pettis Memorial VA Medical Center's 2010 Creative Arts Competition were announced Feb. 18. Artwork by military service veterans was showcased by the Loma Linda hospital during a public display and reception that afternoon.

Photo Gallery: Creative Arts Competition at the Jerry L. Pettis Memorial VA Medical Center

02/18/2010

Curator: City employee objected to nude painting
The curator of an art show in a Temecula-owned building said this morning that a city employee told her a painting depicting a nude woman could not be displayed.

Sissi Hale would not say who the employee was. The removal of Temecula artist Jeff Hebron's work from an ongoing show at The Merc has sparked accusations of censorship from local artists and a national anti-censorship group.

University of Redlands introduces new Center for the Arts
After nearly a decade of planning, the University of Redlands will present its new Center for the Arts building in a dedication ceremony Friday at 1:30 p.m. Following the dedication student-led and self-guided tours of the facilities will be open from 2 to 3 p.m.

Wildomar sisters, others are drawing for Haiti donations
These kids are creative in more ways than one, and Haiti might be the better for it.

Moved by the plight of Haitians struggling to recover from the devastating earthquake last month, sisters Marley and Presley Magana of Wildomar wanted to help.

"We were watching the news and primarily Marley was really upset about what was happening in Haiti," said her mother, Michelle Magana.

02/17/2010

Temecula criticized for removing nude portrait from city-owned gallery
A New York City-based anti-censorship group is criticizing the decision to remove a portrait of a nude woman from an art gallery run by the city of Temecula.

See 'The Legend of the Arrowhead' come to life
The original musical, "The Legend of the Arrowhead," will show one night only, Thursday, Feb. 18, at 8 p.m. at the historic California Theatre of the Performing Arts in San Bernardino. The cast hosted a special performance for a group of Inland school children at the theater Wednesday morning.

Video: Musical satire traces San Bernardino history

02/19/2010

Exhibit showcases collection of well-known children's book art
Exhibit showcases collection of well-known children's book art

The Peppers Art Gallery at the University of Redlands will feature an exhibit of original artwork from well-known children's books and the Les and Zora Charles collection of picture book art.

02/17/2010

Photographer chronicles desert dogs
Photographic artist John Divola spent six years documenting the roving dogs that chased his car when he drove through the isolated desert at the east end of the Morongo Valley.

Divola is an internationally known contemporary artist and is considered one of the top artists living in the Inland Empire.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: John Divola

02/14/2010

Redlands photographer to receive honor
Assemblywoman Wilmer Amina Carter, D-Rialto, will honor John Coleman, a Redlands photographer who has recorded local African American history, at her 2010 Black History Month program.

Literature festival planned at University of Redlands
The annual Charlotte S. Huck Children's Literature Festival, featuring nationally and internationally known authors, illustrators and editors, is set for March 12 and 13 at the University of Redlands.

02/16/2010

Workshop offered on Maloof style
Mike Johnson and Larry White, who both worked with famous furniture maker Sam Maloof for decades, are offering a one-day workshop through UCR Extension called "A Day in the Studio of Sam Maloof, Master Woodworker" from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, and again on May 22.

Veterans to show art
Artwork by military veterans will be displayed from noon to 3 p.m. Thursday at Loma Linda's Veterans Administration Medical Center.

The free show is open to the public and will be in the medical center's Community Living Center dining room, 11201 Benton St.

02/14/2010

Photographer to speak at MSJC Menifee campus
Professional photographer Justin Hulse will discuss his work and the career aspirations of his photography students in a Wednesday speech.

The free event at Mt. San Jacinto College's Menifee Valley Campus, is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the business and technology building assembly hall, room 927.

Information: Keith Hanz, photography department chairman, 951-639-5546.

--Jeff Horseman

02/12/2010

San Bernardino kicks off its birthday celebration
"The Legend of the Arrowhead," an original musical written by Heather McCluskey takes the stage in San Bernardino on Thursday.

Organizers say it is the kickoff of the city of San Bernardino's bicentennial events.

More than 100 quilts will be displayed at Hemet show
Phyllis Binkley was attracted to fibers and fabrics when she learned to sew as a young girl.

"Doll clothes came first," she said. "I made a lot of my own clothing through high school and later on."

Binkley is displaying a needle felted piece of a small waterfall in Yosemite at the Valley Quilters 30th annual Quilt Show opening today.

02/11/2010

UC Riverside gets rare copy of H.G. Wells novel
The Eaton Collection at the University of California, Riverside acquired a rare, first American edition last month of "The Time Machine" by English novelist H. G. Wells. UCR is one of only 25 repositories in the world to own a copy. The purchase was made possible with a $10,000 grant from the B.H. Breslauer Foundation. Because the London edition was the source of all subsequent printings, fewer copies of the American edition survive.

Artists are wanted
Banning Center for the Arts is seeking artists for its gallery co-op.

Artists are required to work in the gallery one day a month.

Interested artists may bring three original works of art to the center between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Friday through Feb. 20 to be juried. Watercolor, oil and acrylic paintings, pottery and sculpture will be accepted.

02/10/2010

Riverside County now has its own history magazine
History lovers and those who have information about the history of Riverside County will now have a place to read about and share that information.

A new publication put out by the Riverside County Historical Commission and the Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District will highlight the history of Riverside County. The second issue will be out in April and can be obtained by subscription.

Vietnam vet, now docent, finds peace
After Tom Fontanes repaired his last telephone a year ago, the busy signal that had separated him from the memories of combat in the Vietnam War was stilled.

Gospel concert celebrates centennial
Hemet songwriter Danney Ball and The Burchfield Brothers of Nashville, Tenn., will perform at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Hemet Nazarene Church. It is the first of a series of gospel music programs to be presented at local churches. Ball will team up with a variety of gospel groups and quartets to celebrate Hemet's centennial.

Ball wrote the "Welcome to Hemet" song.

02/09/2010

UC Riverside shows off rare copy of sci fi classic
UC Riverside provides rarities to science fiction scholars the way the planet Pandora supplies "unoptainium" to humans in the movie "Avatar."

The university is the site of the Eaton Collection of sci-fi, fantasy and comic books, making it the place to find genres the literary world hasn't always valued highly.

UC Riverside's Writers Week begins Tuesday
Authors will discuss the trials and triumphs of the writing process next week when UC Riverside hosts its annual Writers Week.

"This is our 33rd year - it's the longest-running literary event in Southern California," said Michael Jayme, assistant professor of creative writing at UCR and director of Writers Week.

Special Section: Hays Press-Enterprise Lecture

Quilts show gratitude for service
A joint effort by Maze Stone Quilters and members of the Valley Quilters Guild has resulted in lots of patriotic quilts being donated to the Quilts of Valor Foundation program.

02/07/2010

Auditions set for Redlands Shakespeare Festival
The Redlands Shakespeare Festival plans auditions for its sixth annual season 1-5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, and 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 21, at the Joslyn Senior Center, 21 Grant St., Redlands. Festival directors will seek to cast a repertory company of 45-50 actors.

02/05/2010

Student musicians competing for honor
The best musicians from a Hemet Unified School District solo and ensemble festival will play for the public at 7 p.m. on March 1 at the Tahquitz High auditorium.

Tahquitz is at 4425 W. Commonwealth Ave. in Hemet. Admission is free.

The musicians will be chosen from among those playing Saturday at a festival at Ranch Viejo Middle School. That festival is not open to the public.

02/04/2010

Special exhibit of glass on tap in Redlands
For some 20 years, Michigan resident Norma Von Stuck collected bells.

She gathered them up everywhere, whether they were commemorative bells, souvenir items or ones that were holiday-themed. "Her criteria for selection was, if she didn't have one," said her son, Redlands resident Monte Stuck.

Western Science Center offers slime time
Patrons at the Western Science Center on Saturday can make slime and a Valentine's Day card and get answers to such questions as why oil and water don't mix and whether cornstarch and water form a solid or liquid.

Science Saturday runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the museum, 2345 Searl Parkway at Diamond Valley Lake in Hemet.

There is no charge for the event. Information: 951-791-0033.

02/03/2010

Exhibit at museum shows Riverside residents in antique-style photos
The photographs in the "Riverside-Americans" exhibition now at the UC Riverside/California Museum of Photography look like they were taken 150 years ago.

They were created with 19th century techniques, using metal plates and a time-consuming development process that sometimes leaves peeled-up film at the edges.

Restaurant, jazz club envisioned for Odd Fellows Temple in downtown Hemet
Jason Strain and Matt McPherson sat side by side as saxophonists in the Hemet High School jazz band.

Now, years later, they are a duet hoping to reinvent a historic Hemet building and bring soul to downtown.

Strain has his sights set on a summer opening for the Allegro Eatery & Music Venue in the Odd Fellows Temple on Harvard Street.

Strain said downtown really needs something.

Hemet dance team celebrates success
The Hemet High School dance team had a successful month of competition in January.

On Jan. 23 at Aliso Niguel High, Hemet was first in Military, Dance Drill, Pom and High Kick, and fourth in Hip Hop.

On Jan. 30 at West Covina High, Hemet was first in Dance Drill, second in Military and Pom, third in High Kick and fourth in Hip Hop.

Brian Rokos

Tea and antiques help celebrate Hemet birthday
A March 13 tea and antique appraisal has been sanctioned by the city of Hemet as an official centennial event.

The event is sponsored by the Soroptimist International of San Jacinto-Hemet Valley and will be held from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at Hemet United Methodist Church, 330 S. Buena Vista St. in Hemet. The cost is $30 per person or $200 for a table of eight.

02/01/2010

Riverside museum wants tattoo stories for upcoming exhibit
The Riverside Metropolitan Museum is taking a new look at a very old tradition.

For its upcoming exhibition, "Adornment," the museum will explore the ways that people adorn themselves, including tattooing, cosmetics, jewelry, clothing and accessories.

The exhibit opens March4, but in preparation the museum is looking for people willing to share their thoughts -- and their tattoos.

01/31/2010

Youth Spotlight: Kyle Toth
Kyle Toth is an example of talent meeting luck at just the right time to create special opportunities.

The 19-year-old Temecula resident is one of 12 students in the nation accepted into the master woodworking program at North Bennet Street School in Boston, where he is enrolled in a two-year program leading to certification as a master craftsman.

01/30/2010

Dickens Festival returns with novel entertainment
The world of Charles Dickens once again spills off the page and into the streets of downtown Riverside Feb. 6-7.

This year's Riverside Dickens Festival focuses on the novel "The Old Curiosity Shop." It will feature all annual favorites, including Fezziwig's Ball (sold out, except for the observation deck), strolling street performers and Oliver's Alley for children.

01/29/2010

Anthology explores the myths and realities of Inland deserts
Ruth Nolan's love affair with the California desert began as a teen, when she moved to a remote part of the Mojave.

01/28/2010

No concrete proposals on first day of Hemet teacher contract negotiations
The Hemet Unified School District did not make a formal proposal Wednesday on the first day of contract negotiations with the Hemet Teachers Association.

The sides are expected to continue talks today on a 2010-11 deal that almost certainly will include cuts as the district tries to erase a $19 million deficit.

Art exhibit uses Riverside community as inspiration
In a new exhibit being shown at the UCR/California Museum of Photography, members of the Riverside community and UCR ARTSblock curators and staff are part of the show.

Photographer Keliy Anderson-Staley's exhibit, "Riverside-Americans," will have an opening reception from 6-9 p.m. Feb. 4 as part of First Thursday ARTSwalk in Downtown Riverside.

01/27/2010

Artists' quilts are on display at Mt. San Jacinto College
These quilts are for hanging, not covering a bed, and the artists who created them will be on hand Saturday when their exhibit opens at Mt. San Jacinto College's Art Gallery at the San Jacinto campus.

Western Science Center gets $150,000 from Hemet for improvements
The Western Science Center will receive $150,000 from the city of Hemet to build new exhibits at the museum and expand classrooms and laboratories.

Artist on display in Redlands began in kindergarten
Artist Landy (Yolanda) Terrell first picked up a paint brush in an after-school art class when she was in kindergarten.

"It was as if it belonged in my hand," she said. "I could take a paintbrush and make mountains move, make people be whatever I wanted them to be."

Artist Spotlight: Cathi Calhoun
Artist Cathi Calhoun's motivation comes from the joy of discovery and exploring new expressions.

She works in a variety of media, including watercolor, acrylics, photography and monotypes. The freedom to pursue whatever develops has led her to create work that is fresh, imaginative, and expressive. This approach has also brought her recognition and awards.

01/26/2010

San Bernardino Symphony opens with Michael Jackson songs
The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra continues to prove itself to be more than a fine professional orchestra. Under the leadership of conductor Carlo Ponti, the staff and volunteers, it has become a gem for the community. At its Sunday afternoon concert, the orchestra and Ponti showcased orchestral sections, diverse and worthy music and outstanding performers. The event also served as a teaching tool for the young people in the audience.

01/23/2010

Riverside resident captures life through long lens
What began as a photography assignment in India in 1959 while Constance Mayfield St. Jean was a cultural anthropology research assistant, turned into a serious passion for art photography, which the Riverside resident has continued to pursue throughout several decades.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Constance Mayfield St. Jean

01/22/2010

KVCR-TV will air Palm Springs special next week
A primer on Palm Springs and other desert cities is airing 8 p.m. Monday on KVCR-TV.

"Hello Paradise" is an hour-long pledge special culled from the locally produced, weekly show of the same name.

It will profile resort hotels, museums and attractions, golf, restaurants and upcoming special events in the Coachella Valley.

University of Redlands organist releases CD recorded on famous organ
Art teacher and university organist Frederick Swann will release his newest recording, "The Artistry of Frederick Swann," on Sunday. Produced by Gothic Records, the CD is believed to be the first commercial recording made with the Casavant Opus 1230 pipe organ.

The instrument was dedicated in the University of Redlands' Memorial Chapel in 1928 and has since been fully restored.

01/20/2010

Artist probes beyond reality for truth
"There are things and then there are things in relation to other things."

That simple statement on Duncan Simcoe's Web site has provided fertile investigative territory for his art for decades. It is the core concept connecting his diverse themes of conflict, violence and social injustice.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Duncan Simcoe

01/17/2010

Art show begins in Temecula on Friday
A juried art show featuring 45 creations begins Friday in Temecula.

The Visual Expressions 2010 Juried Art Show is sponsored by the Arts Council of The Temecula Valley and is the council's first juried show.

An artists' reception and award ceremony will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at the Gallery at the Merc, 42051 Main St., Temecula.

The exhibit is scheduled to run through Feb. 21.

Artist Spotlight: Lisabeth Mertins
Lisabeth Mertins' visual imagery and style may seem familiar to readers of The Press-Enterprise: She just produced the unique and artistic front page for the Special Opinion/Editorial Section focusing on the grand opening of the Fox Performing Arts Center in this past Sunday's edition.

01/16/2010

Pass-area history goes on display
A museum that emphasizes the history of the San Gorgonio Pass area debuts today.

"I think it will open up an interesting history that many people might not know about," said Ken Holtzclaw, a Banning author of several Pass-area history books.

01/15/2010

Rancho Cucamonga Community Foundation receives grant
The Rancho Cucamonga Community Foundation has received a $25,000 grant to support arts programming at the Lewis Family Playhouse at the Victoria Gardens Cultural Center.

Sinfonia Mexicana expands its youth academy to include Folklorico dance
When Sinfonia Mexicana's Youth Academy was named the official Youth Mariachi of the 2010 San Bernardino Bi-Centennial celebration, the group saw it as an opportunity to expand.

The result was Sinfonia Mexicana's Ballet Folklorico Dance Company.

01/10/2010

Parlors OK if they cover up
Corona recently allowed tattoo parlors anywhere in the city, as long as they take on a more upscale and inconspicuous look, something traditional tattoo artists say hides the art but represents a growing trend that may soon be coming to the Inland area.

Artist's work reflects Hawaiian style
An artist whose work is strongly influenced by Hawaiian culture and scenery will have her work on display at the gallery of the Banning Center for the Arts.

The work of Bridgette Adams Greb will be on display through Feb. 20 at the center, 130 San Gorgonio, in Banning. A free reception is set for Jan. 15 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.

01/08/2010

Club Corner - Hemet Valley Art Association
Name of Club: Hemet Valley Art Association Inc.

When formed: Dec. 16, 1963

Current president: Pat Pierce

Number of members: 150-170

01/09/2010

Temecula boy scout's project honors Holocaust victims
The memorial is simple, almost sparse. Three concrete benches face a fountain with six ascending bowls, and the only sound is trickling water.

But maybe visitors will hear something else, maybe the cries of six million Jews who perished in the Holocaust. Brandon Sigel hopes so.

01/08/2010

Riverside showcases art from sister-city partnership
Riverside will show off its global reach by presenting art exhibits of work related to the sister cities of Ensenada, Mexico, and Sendai, Japan.

Starting Jan. 14, the Riverside Community Arts Association will showcase two exhibits with art related to or created by Riverside's two sister cities.

Artist Spotlight: Art is a restoration for Laura Ryan
Using the tools of scrapbookers and rubberstampers, Laura Ryan opened a door to a variety of art projects, rushed through and never looked back.

Her leap of faith into creative expression has led to experiments in a wide variety of media that recently earned her the 2009 Artist of the Year award at the Hemet Art Association.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Laura Ryan

Take a tour through history at the Rains House
A firsthand look at history will be open and available to the public, for free.

The historic John Rains House will be the site of a tour through Rancho Cucamonga history on Friday, Jan. 22.

Two Riverside high school students win water art contest
Two local Riverside high school students have been awarded a special prize. Their art will displayed in 60,000 places.

Sixty thousand water bottles to be exact.

For the 12th year, the Riverside Public Utilities held a contest where students from Riverside high schools were asked to create original artistic labels for the RPU water bottles.

01/07/2010

Lyric Opera hits bravura on few funds
Recent decades have not been kind to the opera world, which has suffered a decline in audiences and aficionados.

The Riverside Lyric Opera, which serves opera fans from throughout the Inland area, is passionate about reversing the trend. The organization and its talented singers show that opera is still very much alive and growing in Riverside and the region.

12/28/2009

Redlands artist finds freedom to create after job loss
The recession has resulted in a good news, bad news situation for artist Richard Freund.

Losing his job after 30 years as a computer programmer led to economic hardship, but the situation afforded him the opportunity to make art full time.

12/25/2009

Claremont Museum of Art to close after this weekend
Two more days remain to check out what is on display at the Claremont Museum of Art in The Packing House.

The facility will close after this weekend and put its permanent collection in a secure storage facility, according to a news release.

The museum attributed the closing to current economic conditions.

12/24/2009

Final chapter coming for Moreno Valley bookstore
B. Dalton will conclude its last chapter Jan. 16 when it disappears for good from Moreno Valley.

That will leave this city of nearly 185,000 people without a bookseller, except for a smattering of independent Spanish, religious and adult stores.

12/22/2009

Artist Spotlight: Richard Waggoner
Woodcarver Richard Waggoner is a man of few words. His hands and carving tools speak for him. They convey reflections on country, service and the traditions of his community.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Richard Waggoner

12/17/2009

Holiday events, Dec. 18, 2009
RIVERSIDE COUNTY

Hemet

Christmas at the Bowl, today, 4-8 p.m. additional dates, Saturday, 4 p.m. The Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre, 27400 Ramona Bowl Road, call for information on specific events, 800-645-4465.

New Year's Eve calendar, Dec. 18, 2009
RIVERSIDE COUNTY

Riverside

Decadent New Year's Eve Bash, Dec. 31, 8 p.m. Club Sevilla, 3252 Mission Inn, Riverside, $25. 951-778-0611.

Harvest New Years Eve Car Show, Dec. 31, 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Harvest Christian Fellowship, 6115 Arlington Ave., Riverside, Free entry, 909-687-6902.

Robert Wagner to talk about memoir
Morongo Casino Resort and Spa is launching a celebrity authors series with Robert Wagner, who has starred in three TV series and appeared in notable films from the 1953 "Titanic" to "Austin Powers."

Wagner will discuss his 2008 memoir, "Pieces of My Heart" at 2 p.m. Saturday. His daughter Katie Wagner will join him.

Art Institute graduates showcase best works
The Art Institute of California, Inland Empire celebrated the works of 30 graduating students Tuesday evening at the Graduate Portfolio Show.

The exhibition was held at the Riverside Art Museum and included works in graphic design, animation, Web design, interior design and culinary arts.

Earlier in the evening, prospective employers browsed the portfolios as the students stood by answering questions.

12/16/2009

Corona muralist paints Inland area, Detroit and more
Singing Elvis Presley's "It's Now or Never" to a lady in a club led Daniel Melendez to Michigan, with the woman, and eventually to the busted romance.

But it also revived an interest and a career in doing murals.

"Call it destiny or whatever it was, it was a weird circumstance," said Melendez, now a Corona resident.

12/15/2009

Artist Spotlight: Judy Davis
Artists struggle with the dichotomy between creating personal art they love and making work that is marketable. During her college years, Judy Davies was literally painting pictures to match the couches while working for a furniture company.

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Judy Davies

12/13/2009

Art students to show off portfolios in graduate show
After months of work, students from The Art Institute of California -- Inland Empire will show off the fruits of their labors.

The Graduate Portfolio Show will be held Tuesday from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Riverside Art Museum. Potential employers are invited to browse student works.

From 6 to 8:30 p.m. the show will be open to the public. Participating students are scheduled to graduate March 26.

12/11/2009

Winterfest brings weekends of wonder to Temecula
Old Town Temecula will host a blizzard of holiday activities during Winterfest, a monthlong calendar of events starting Friday night.

Winterfest kicks off at 6 p.m. with a visit from Santa, snow to play in, a holiday train and the Spark of Love Toy Drive.

12/10/2009

Corona Art Association honors annual winners
Corona Art Associated selected R. Mike Nichols as its Artist of the Year during its annual reception Saturday.

Also honored with awards were Marilyn West, Carmen Lopez, Cathi Calhoun and Jill Jones.

Photo Gallery: Corona Art Association selects annual winners

12/08/2009

Artist Spotlight: Photographer David Lawrence captures natural glimpses
Retired art professor David Lawrence is a visual philosopher.

Lawrence, of Redlands, explores everyday images within easy reach of his camera and provides viewers with a profound sense of beauty that travels below the surface.

Photo Gallery: Photographer catches natural glimpses

12/01/2009

His realistic work is accessible, if edgy
Artist David Rosales is a reflective artist using everything in his personal arsenal to address what he sees as contradictions and conflicts in perceptions throughout our contemporary experience.

Photo Gallery: Inland artist David Rosales' cultural commentary

11/29/2009

Adams' 'Moonrise' sells for $360,000
An early print of an iconic Ansel Adams photograph sold Tuesday for $360,000 at a Swann Auction Galleries sale in New York City.

11/26/2009

Event celebrates new Inland anthology
The release of the book "No Place for a Puritan: the Literature of California's Deserts" will be celebrated at the main Riverside Public Library on Dec. 5 at 2 p.m.

11/25/2009

Halls ringing with versions of 'Jingle Bells'
The holidays are the time of the year when artists trot out albums they recorded in July, and halls are filled with the ringing reinterpretations of "Jingle Bells."

Here are the big-name holiday concerts to catch in the Inland region.

Sara Evans

Artists explore landscapes in 'Edenistic Divergence' exhibit
Landscapes are the unifying theme for a new exhibit at the Riverside Art Museum, but the four participating artists have different interpretations of the subject.

"Edenistic Divergence," organized by guest curator Andi Campognone, will be on display through Feb. 20.

11/24/2009

Playful work
Temecula artist Ingrid Wright sparkles with crackling energy and a megawatt smile.

Before she pursued her creative interests, she worked as a fashion model, developed a successful dental practice and raised a family. At 46, she left dentistry and dedicated herself to art.

Wright thrives on expanding and evolving her talents and taking on new challenges.

Photo Gallery: Artist Wright's work sparkles with color

San Bernardino builds show out of Schumann's constructions
The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra scratched the classical music itch big time with not one, not two, but three orchestral works by Robert Schumann, and the intensely cerebral exercise of listening to three Schumann pieces left me aching for something raucous, something playful.

11/23/2009

Aspiring tattooists reject fears that their work at home could harm clients
In kitchens and living rooms across the Inland area, unregistered tattoo artists are inking their friends, relatives and anyone else looking for a deal.

Health officials say it's a risky and illegal practice.

11/22/2009

Beach mural must go
One of those silly homeowners flaps resulted in a directive to paint over a beach-scene mural to make an ill woman feel like her Hemet is by the ocean.

"I'm going to fight it, for her," said Rich Sanford, who commissioned airbrush artist Richard Williamson to paint the mural for his fiancée, Judy Lee Parsons.

Arts event sets up under umbrellas
The La Quinta Arts Foundation will present Art Under the Umbrellas, Nov. 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in Old Town La Quinta.

More than 75 artists will line the lawns and streets of the area, off Washington and Calle Tampico, presenting art and jewelry.

The event will also feature live music and wine tasting. The event and parking are free.

11/20/2009

Family fun doesn't have to break the bank
Looking for something to do with the kids that's enjoyable, educational and, best of all, cheap? There are museums, libraries and art galleries all over the Inland region that offer great programs for families that don't involve an admission fee. Here's a list that's just the tip of the iceberg of inexpensive or freebie fun the whole family will enjoy:

First Sundays

11/19/2009

Temecula arts group looks to expand horizons
For the Arts Council of the Temecula Valley, 2010 will begin with a blank canvas it hopes to fill with a montage of events and programs that will play a role in changing the face of the arts in the area.

Riverside resident earns spot in photography exhibit at Kent State
Glennis Siegfried, a Riverside resident and senior photojournalism and library and information science major at Kent State University, earned a spot in a new exhibit for her photograph featuring the residents of Hattie Larlham Center.

11/18/2009

Artist Spotlight: Don Roth
Don Roth has earned the unofficial title of "The Norman Rockwell of Cats" through his series of paintings known as "The Kool-Kat Kollection." He began working on the series back in 2000 and each year since he has continued to create new paintings for the series.

Photo Gallery: Artist Don Roth's feline creations

11/17/2009

Mission Inn luncheon marks National Philanthropy Day
It is appropriate at this time of year that the true spirit of giving and generosity is celebrated as National Philanthropy Day, a nationwide event that marks the work accomplished through the generous donations and volunteer efforts of individuals and organizations offering their time, talent and passion to improve their community.

11/15/2009

Riverside International Film Festival holds poster contest
Want your artwork in lights? And on the web? And in a film-festival program?

11/13/2009

'Soldier-Artist' paintings on display
"Soldier-Artist," an exhibit of 15 paintings by Victor Contini, is on display at the General Patton Memorial Museum in Chiriaco Summit.

Contini's studies as an art student at Cleveland Institute of Art were cut short when he went to fight in World War II. He died on the island of Saipan. He was 26.

His niece Mary Contini Gordon put together the exhibit of paintings, which will run through Dec. 31.

Is art a dog's best friend?
It's been said that dog is man's best friend.

At the exhibit "Intelligent Design: Interspecies Art" at the Sweeney Art Gallery in Riverside, dogs and other animals are also collaborators with different forms of art.

The exhibit pairs 20 artists with different animals from cats and bears to rats and trout. There are also artistic collaborations including artists, cockroaches and spiders.

11/11/2009

Artist Spotlight: Rich Lopez
Beaumont artist Rich Lopez has a long history of sinking his hands into rich clay. He has been creating pottery by hand for more than 40 years.

And throughout the decades, he has cultivated a spiritual connection in his work.

Photo Gallery: Ceramic artist Rich Lopez of Beaumont

11/10/2009

San Bernardino cartoon artist received early guidance from Charles Schulz
Cartoonist Charles Schulz launched the careers of Snoopy, Linus and Charlie Brown -- and gave a boost to cartoon artist Darlene Douthit of San Bernardino as well.

As a teenager in the early 1960s, Douthit was a budding cartoon artist living in Sebastopol in northern California. She had been told that a professional cartoonist lived nearby, she said.

11/09/2009

Sculpture exhibition reflects suffering of war victims
A new exhibition at the Crafton Hills College Art Gallery will protest the suffering of people victimized in wars.

"Pieces & Parts" was created by University of Redlands School of Fine Arts professor Renée Azenaro. It consists of about 30 works made up of aluminum window screens, plaster and beeswax.

An opening reception will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday in Finkelstein Performing Arts Center.

11/06/2009

Museum exhibits Inland art for collectors, fundraising
Want to start or supplement an art collection? Riverside Art Museum is holding its sixth annual "Off the Wall" fundraiser exhibition, presented by the Art Alliance.

There are 869 pieces of original artwork created by Inland artists available for purchase right off the wall for $50, $100, $200 or $300. "Off the Wall Jr." arwork prices are $10, $20 and $30.

Photo exhibition will chronicle Fox Theater's transformation
Riverside resident Michael Elderman thinks Riverside's Fox Theater has a story to tell.

He'll be telling its story in the form of a photographic essay exhibition, "Riverside's Fox Theater: An Intimate Portrait" at La Sierra University's Brandstater Gallery. It opens with a reception on Monday and runs through Dec. 10.

11/04/2009

Artist Spotlight: The insightful creations of Caron Rand
Caron Guerrant Rand's artwork is reflective, insightful and thought provoking. She infuses portraits with sentiment and creates abstract works exploring layers of pattern and meaning. She also creates art that delivers intense, impassioned messages.

Photo Gallery: Challenging creations by Riverside artist Caron Guerrant Rand

11/03/2009

Exhibit features art, music
Riverside's Richard Espinosa, who has been creating original art for more than 70 years, will be displaying his work during Thursday's Art Walk.

The show will be at the Universalist Unitarian Church in Riverside at 3657 Lemon St. from 6-9 p.m. The event will feature the music of Marcus Devant, Shae, Sal & Isela, Sherilynn, Vienna and David Robinson.

Reality clashes with the surreal at challenging RCC show
You might as well ask artist Pamela Mower-Conner directions from Tyler Mall to Timbuktu when trying to dig into the motivation and meaning behind her paintings.

Noncommittal responses obscure the expected route from point A to point B, leaving one to wonder if a beginning and end even exist, and whether the landmarks to get there even matter.

Video: RCC art exhibit provokes inward thoughts

Photo Gallery: "The Haunting Terrain" art exhibit at RCC

Fellowship group to host dancing, chanting event for peace
The Inland Communities Fellowship of Reconciliation will present The Dances of Universal Peace at All Saints Episcopal Church in Riverside Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m.

The circle dancing and chanting event is open to the public, including children ages 6 and older. Admission is $10.

11/01/2009

Museum to celebrate Kaiser Steel's 40-year run
For 40 years, Kaiser Steel was an industrial giant of the Inland Empire.

In the gloomy early years of World War II, industrialist Henry J. Kaiser built the plant in Fontana so it would be safe from a coastal attack. The steel mill was the largest west of the Mississippi River and its steel was made into supply ships that helped win the war.

11/02/2009

San Bernardino County Museum sets Wildlife Art Festival
The San Bernardino County Museum is going to get a little bit wild this month.

The museum's 27th annual Wildlife Art Festival will take place Nov. 21 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Nov. 22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. An opening reception with several participating artists will take place the evening of Nov. 20.

The festival exhibit will include paintings, sculptures, carvings, photographs and prints.

Artists explore post-apocalyptic world, masculine vs. feminine themes
Two artists will display works described as "surrealistic" and "complex" in a show that will be open from Nov. 2 to Dec. 4 at Riverside City College's Quad Gallery.

11/01/2009

Riverside Art Museum holds an 80th birthday bash for its building
The day Dottie Smith took her daughter to dance class was a fateful one.

Photo Gallery: Celebrating 80 years of the Riverside Art Museum

Photo Gallery: Arts & Craft Beer fundraiser at Riverside Art Museum

10/30/2009

Exhibit captures famous entertainers
caught on film

'Shot in the Dark" is a photo show by Ed Foster and is on exhibit at the Whitney Library on Tropicana Ave. at Nellis Road through Dec. 6.

Photos in the exhibit include shots of Robert Goulet, Jack Jones, Buddy Greco and Joe Williams.

10/23/2009

Riverside Art Museum holds an 80th birthday bash for its building
The day Dottie Smith took her daughter to dance class was a fateful one.

In the mid-1960s, Smith helped found the Art Alliance, a fundraising group supporting the arts in Riverside. At the time, the Art Center and School occupied a converted dog pound, leased from the city of Riverside on Brockton Ave., and it was outgrowing the facility, recalled Smith's daughter, Sarah Smith, past president of the Art Alliance.

Photo Gallery: Celebrating 80 years of the Riverside Art Museum

10/31/2009

Artists explore post-apocalyptic world, masculine vs. feminine themes
Two artists will display works described as "surrealistic" and "complex" in a show that will be open from Nov. 2 to Dec. 4 at Riverside City College's Quad Gallery.

10/30/2009

The 'Y' in Riverside is 100 years old
Bent Corydon has vivid memories of the day in 1974 when he and a friend scrambled over a back wall and snuck into the abandoned YMCA building at the corner of Lemon Street and University Avenue in Riverside.

It was a rat- and cockroach-infested wreck with gaping holes in the roof. Rain-damaged beams sagged, and gas and water pipes were leaking in a dozen places.

10/29/2009

Museum reopens after renovations
It looked like Christmas morning at the Edward-Dean Museum on a recent weekday as workers unwrapped packages filled with antiques and delicate artifacts.

Employees of Burgess Moving & Storage Company of Riverside were returning to the Cherry Valley museum its inventory of decorative arts from the 16th to 19th centuries. The museum had been closed for five months for renovation and refurbishing.

10/28/2009

Artist Spotlight: Artist Mary Gehley is the goddess of gourds
Childhood memories can mark a lasting trajectory to our future in ways we rarely comprehend. Gourd artist Mary Gehley is fortunate to understand the connection.

Her childhood memories, rich with art and creative adventures, serve as inspiration for her artwork and her outlook on life. Her path in art and life is marked by her fondest memories and the keen sense of curiosity she developed as a young girl.

Dia de los Muertos celebration to honor Mexican culture, art, loved ones
It's a day for the dead that celebrates life.

Families will gather Monday in honor of loved ones who have died. The annual Dia de los Muertos celebration will take place on the corner of Mission Inn Avenue and Orange Street, in front of the Riverside Metropolitan Museum, from 6 to 9 p.m.

10/23/2009

Insects are livin' large in Hemet exhibit
Butterflies' wings, no matter how vivid, are actually tiled with transparent scales. A praying mantis can consume a frog. When a mosquito bites you, it's using a highly specialized, six-piece tongue.

Video: Mechanical bugs invade Hemet museum

Center still going strong
In November 1964 -- long before Earth Day was celebrated and before all things "green" became trendy -- a group of Jurupa-area leaders established a center "to teach respect and responsibility toward the earth and its inhabitants."

10/22/2009

Nonprofit Spotlight: The Banning Cultural Alliance
Small seeds bloom into impressive realities when properly nurtured. This is proven repeatedly through the sheer force of dedicated volunteers and supporters of nonprofit organizations. In the Inland area, the seedling ideas of a few visionary leaders have created a network of arts and culture sites weaving a rich tapestry of talent and community enhancements across the area.

10/21/2009

American Artists from the Russian Empire opens Saturday
"American Artists from the Russian Empire" opens Saturday at The San Diego Museum of Art.

The exhibition features nearly 70 works showcasing such painters and artists as Louise Nevelson, Jules Olitsky, Mark Rothko, and Ben Shahn. Details: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

10/20/2009

Illustrator Scott Flanders' dangerous landscapes, ominous warnings and treacherous terrain
Every year San Diego becomes a mecca for the faithful pilgrimage of graphic storytellers, digital design masters, and pen-and-ink wizards who hold court with enamored followers and comic book aficionados at a convention extraordinaire called Comic-Con.

10/27/2009

Artist Spotlight: Artist Mary Gehley is the goddess of gourds
Childhood memories can mark a lasting trajectory to our future in ways we rarely comprehend. Gourd artist Mary Gehley is fortunate to understand the connection.

Her childhood memories, rich with art and creative adventures, serve as inspiration for her artwork and her outlook on life. Her path in art and life is marked by her fondest memories and the keen sense of curiosity she developed as a young girl.

Photo Gallery: Mary Gehley, goddess of gourds

10/20/2009

Kennewick man display making local history

Hundreds visit AIDS in Africa exhibit
Tamara Welter has read the grim statistics of AIDS in Africa: tens of millions dead, infected with HIV or orphaned by the epidemic.

On Monday, the Perris woman learned about the impact of AIDS in a personal way, as she journeyed through a replica of an African village at a Riverside church while listening to the story of a 14-year-old girl who lost a father to AIDS and whose mother is sick with the disease.

10/19/2009

Exhibit shares art, science
Blaise Evers expends a lot of his brain power on the study of trephination -- the act of perforating the skull with a surgical instrument. He has researched the earliest record of such surgeries performed in ancient Peru thousands of years ago.

10/18/2009

Angelou inspires hope - except for tickets. It's sold out.
Author and poet Maya Angelou said her mission in public speaking is to provide some hope and humor.

That attitude might explain why her lecture Thursday at UC Riverside is sold out.

Denise Stadelbacher, spokeswoman for UC Riverside presents, said the University Theatre is at capacity and there is no "wiggle room" left.

10/16/2009

'Phantom' haunts California Theatre on Saturday
The California Theatre of the Performing Arts will test the strength of its 1920s "Mighty Wurlitzer" on Sunday with a screening of the silent classic "Phantom of the Opera."

Video: Organ tunes up for 'Phantom' screening

10/17/2009

Ceramics bring out Redlands artist's soul
Whenever artist Kristy Bergeson needs to do some soul searching, she looks no further than her potter's wheel.

"I can make forms with my hands that are beautiful to me and that bring out my soul," said Bergeson, of Redlands. "With ceramics, I'm home."

10/14/2009

Hemet artist Rigo Rivas ventures back to images frozen in time
Hemet artist Rigo Rivas, who studied art in the United States, still maintains a sense of color, composition and content linked to his native El Salvador.

10/10/2009

Three Inland groups receive Irvine art grants
Three Inland arts organizations will receive grants to help them improve their community outreach, the James Irvine Foundation announced Friday.

The grants are $225,000 to the Riverside Art Museum, $275,000 to the Redlands Community Music Association and $350,000 to the San Bernardino Symphony Association.

In phone interviews, arts leaders expressed their gratitude.

Banning gallery features paintings by Robert French
The work of a painter known in part for his depictions of Southern California oceans and sunsets is showcased as part of a Banning Center for the Arts show.

The center will continue to present "Robert French: 1916-2007, Shadows and Light, Oil on Canvas" through Nov. 20 at the Banning Center for the Arts, 130 N. San Gorgonio Ave. in Banning. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

10/09/2009

Cirque du Soleil brings tent show to Southern California
Cirque du Soleil is returning to its Southern California stomping ground with a new show.

Its creators say "Kooza" is returning Cirque du Soleil to its roots as well.

It premieres Oct. 16 in a big top at the Santa Monica Pier.

10/07/2009

Redlands art show marks 30th anniversary this month
As a child, Sheila Hansberger went door to door selling crayon drawings to neighbors for a penny each.

"I've been interested in art my whole life," said the Yucaipa watercolorist, whose work will be featured at the Art, For Heaven's Sake! festival Oct. 16-18 at the Redlands United Church of Christ.

Museum adopts new name
Phil Pendley made a pair of significant announcements at Saturday's Science Under The Stars fundraiser for the museum by Hemet formerly known as the Western Center of Archaeology and Paleontology.

10/05/2009

Gallery of theme park treasures opens at Disneyland
Disneyland reopened a gallery for its treasures in a new location on Main Street U.S.A.

It occupies the site of the bank near the park's entrance.

The space retains the feel of an early 20th century bank, according to a press release, and has three rooms:

A vault containing Disney treasures.

A room showing Disney-inspired art.

A store selling prints, books and sculpture.

Center's fundraising event in Riverside geared toward kids
Saturday will be a busy night for kids at the Riverside Plaza. From 6 to 9 p.m. the Carolyn E. Wylie Center for Children, Youth and Families will hold Clowning Around 4 Kids, a yearly fundraiser event that includes carnival games, a bounce house, balloon animals and more.

10/04/2009

From ancient times to modern, wars re-enacted in Chino
Donning historical uniforms, weapons and in some cases old-time accents, hundreds of war re-enactors are converging at Prado Regional Park in Chino this weekend to portray the lives of soldiers past and present.

10/02/2009

Art opens up a colorful world for disabled
For years, Anna Duncan, 24, of Beaumont, drew pictures in varying shades of black, white and gray.

Now, Duncan, an art student at Mt. San Jacinto College in San Jacinto, is focused on color, she said.

"I've done simple drawings and worked with charcoal and graphite," Duncan said. "I'm into painting now and sculpting. I want to go into digital, also."

10/01/2009

Riverside museum explores Moon Festival
Storytelling, folk songs and calligraphy will be part of the Chinese Moon Festival that will be hosted Saturday by the Riverside Metropolitan Museum.

"It's a family festival," said Barbara Wong, a professional storyteller participating in the event. "Originally, it was a harvest festival. It's a time for reunion and for the family to get together."

Students welcome historic Barton schoolhouse
A crowd of students from Montessori public charter Grove School gathered on corners awaiting the arrival of a flatbed truck inching its way down Nevada Street carrying an oversized load.

Half of the 108-year-old historic Barton schoolhouse was parked at Heritage Park across from Grove's Orange Avenue campus, soon to be returned to use by students. The second half was moved Wednesday.

Longtime educator, air museum board member dies at age 89
Robert Hummel was an educator for 35 years, much of that time in Riverside County, and in retirement consulted on school building projects and pushed education as an integral part of March Air Field Museum.

Mr. Hummel died Sept. 14 at The Village in Hemet from complications of Parkinson's disease, according to his family. He was 89.