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Art Abounds

Enjoying the Arts in Redding, California…

The hallmark of a strong, well-rounded community doesn’t rest solely on its infrastructure, buildings, businesses and school system. It can’t be accounted for merely by a community’s proximity to nature or the strength of its economy. It takes people with an ability to create and appreciate art in its many facets. Redding doesn’t have large-scale museums akin to the Smithsonian, the Guggenheim, the D. Young, the J. Paul Getty, or the Louvre. But what it lacks in grand, art-centered structures, Redding more than makes up for in intimate galleries, performing arts venues and spaces filled with passion-fueled creativity.

Art is all around us – on the walls of quaint galleries, shining from small but mighty stages, wafting through speakers in intimate venues, adorning old and new buildings. Most importantly, art is within us. Follow along as we highlight some of the local spaces in Redding where art is brought to life by talented locals with a heart for making their community even more vibrant.

Photo courtesy of North Valley Art League

North Valley Art League & Carter House Gallery:
48 Quartz Hill Road

The North Valley Art League & Carter House Gallery, nestled in the green expanse of Caldwell Park, welcomes formally trained artists and up-and-coming talents alike. From gallery-hung works of art to artisan made gifts, to classes that teach the finer points of art, inspiration abounds at the North Valley Art League. The work of its artists also adorns the walls of Redding City Hall, adding a touch of pleasure to any visit you make for city business.
nval.org

North ValleyArt League & Carter House Gallery. Photo courtesy of North Valley Art League
Shasta County Arts Council in Old City Hall. Photo courtesy of Shasta County Arts Council

The Shasta County Arts Council:
1313 Market Street

Housed in historic Old City Hall, The Shasta County Arts Council proudly welcomes local and regional artists from across the creative spectrum. From paintings and photography to ceramic arts, jewelry, fiber art and more, this local nonprofit organization keeps learning, diversity, cultural understanding and accessibility at the forefront of every monthly

gallery it curates. The Art Council’s classes and workshops help share valuable techniques with the broader creative community.
shastaartscouncil.org

The Art Hunger Summer Gallery. Photo courtesy of The Art Hunger

The Art Hunger:
1504 Market Street

The Art Hunger transforms the ground floor of the historic IOOF Hall, home of Viva Downtown,
into a vibrant, inclusive, fun-filled, themed gallery each month. The Art Hunger makes art accessible – a tangible reminder of the power of art to transform a person and a space. Excited gallery visitors can’t wait to bring home a piece of local artwork. With weekly creative hangouts, Art Hunger welcomes artists from all walks of life to make something beautiful together. Don’t miss the stunning public art outside the IOOF Hall, started by Viva Downtown and curated by The Art Hunger. This rotating art gallery showcases the work of local artists within the arched spaces alongside the 1888 building.
thearthunger.com

Riverfront Playhouse Entrance. Photo courtesy of Riverfront Playhouse

Riverfront Playhouse:
1950 California Street

Watching local performers become the living embodiment of characters from your favorite play, book or movie has a way of stirring the soul. As an audience member at the Riverfront Playhouse, you’ll be treated to an up-close-and-personal glimpse into the lives of real, relatable characters. Whether you laugh, cry or wait with bated breath to

see what brilliance emanates from the stage next, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience at this Downtown Redding gem. Riverfront’s lounge is a great place to enjoy libations and snacks and could be the perfect venue to rent for your special event. Take in the local art in the playhouse’s mini gallery, curated by The Art Hunger.
riverfrontplayhouse.net

Axiom Repertory Theatre venue. Photo courtesy of Axiom Repertory Theatre

Axiom Repertory Theater:
2613 Bechelli Lane

From plays, musicals and concerts to community events, this venue is always aglow with local, regional and world-renowned talent. With a
mission to bring diverse,
artistic voices into an inclusive,

professional theater space, Axiom’s productions have staying power. Theater and music summer camps for kids, technical training and apprenticeship opportunities are helping to raise the next generation of performing artists. Visit Axiom’s Looking Glass Lounge for a cocktail or a snack before the show, during intermission or even while you’re enjoying a stellar performance in the theater.
axreptheatre.com

Photo by Jeannine Hendrickson

The Cascade Theatre:
1731 Market Street

This 1929 icon features a revolving door of talent from around the world and right here at home. Prepare to be enchanted with a troupe of ballet dancers as they float across the stage. Listen to an orchestra as it makes every heart in the building sing. Marvel at your favorite musician or vocalist as they serenade you

amid the golden glow of the theater. Watch a documentary that illuminates a new passion within you. No matter what show you take in at the Cascade Theatre, it’s a treat to experience it in this beautifully restored, art deco building.
cascadetheatre.org

IOOF Hall. Photo by Nigel Skeet

Viva Downtown:
1504 Market Street

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) Hall is one of Redding’s oldest buildings, but under the loving care of Viva Downtown, today, it is the space to experience live music, cultural presentations, spoken word and more in Downtown Redding. In the heart of the Redding Cultural District, Viva’s board room welcomes community members in for vital public meetings and workshops. Entrepreneurs and business owners gather there to generate new ideas. Creatives see the building as an ideal event space in the Downtown corridor. Visit the IOOF Hall on the fourth Friday of each month for performances by local musicians and other creative experiences throughout the year.
vivadowntownredding.org


The Redding Performing Arts Center:
3274 Bechelli Lane

Performing arts education and experience is top of mind for the Redding Performing Arts Center. Kids in grades kindergarten through high school can hone their skills and bring their passion to life on the stage during age-group-specific theatrical productions. Adults who have wanted to try their hand at creative arts like improv, comedy, photography or flamenco can discover their inner actor, comedian, photographer or dancer there, too.
reddingpac.com

Turtle Bay Exploration Park front entrance sign. Photo courtesy of Turtle Bay Exploration Park

Turtle Bay Museum:
844 Sundial Bridge Drive

Nature, science, history, and art form the perfect blend at Turtle Bay Museum. This family-friendly destination makes learning fun for all ages and abilities and has sensory hours, specifically for kids and adults with special needs. The museum hosts rotating exhibits, drop-in activities like Art Studio Saturday, periodic paint and sip experiences, gardening workshops, opportunities to interact with the animals that call the park “home,” and so much more. Turtle Bay is proof that nature is the universe’s most outstanding art form.
turtlebay.org

About Kimberly N. Bonéy

Proud wife and mom, is a freelance writer, designer, up-cycler and owner of Herstory Vintage. When she’s not working, she is joyfully wielding jewelry-making tools and paintbrushes in her studio. Antique shops, vintage boutiques, craft stores and bead shops are her happy place.

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