Art exhibits, classes, workshops, and demonstrations for everyone

—The large purple building with its iconic mural of Morro Rock in downtown Morro Bay is a must-visit for art appreciators and artists. Art Center Morro Bay (MBAA) has been offering art exhibits and art-related activities since 1951. This nonprofit, volunteer-run art center is a destination for emerging and professional exhibitors and art collectors who appreciate compelling exhibits filled with a vast array of quality art.

Art all year

Art Center Morro Bay presents eight exhibits annually with two spacious galleries and a classroom. Special juried exhibits have included the Pastel Society of the West Coast, featuring award-winning, national, and international artists.

Free demonstrations by talented artists are presented on the second Monday of each month from 3 -5 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

Adult art classes and workshops are offered throughout the year, and summer art camp is designed for children over the age of six. Drop-in figure drawing is offered every Wednesday evening from 6-9 p.m. for a minimal fee to cover the cost of the model.  Fine art classes and workshops may include, plein-air painting, portrait painting, sketching, and digital drawing. Craft classes include clay sculpture and jewelry.

Classes are available throughout the year, so check the website regularly.

Scenic Slopes by Mary Gail Stablein.

A history of art and community

Beginning in 1951, seventeen artists met in local homes, hanging their paintings on neighborhood trees, using whatever space was available for shows. The association acquired its current home in 1971 and has become an integral part of the community since opening its doors.

Art Center Morro Bay works with local high schools and the Cuesta College Art Department to provide internship programs and scholarships to deserving youths.

A board-of-directors-operated, member-supported nonprofit organization, Art Center Morro Bay is completely operated by volunteers. Members are the heart of the organization and membership is open to all. Visit the website to join.

Morro Bay Sunrise by Rod Aszman.

Art in the Park

Among MBAA’s most cherished legacies is Morro Bay Art in the Park, one of California’s longest-running outdoor art festivals. Founded and still produced by the nonprofit, Art in the Park has, for the last seven decades, brought artists, visitors, and the community together in a shared celebration of creativity.

This event is not only a treasured tradition, it’s also MBAA’s most important fundraiser, helping sustain scholarships, art programs, and the gallery’s operations year-round. As we look toward the future, the MBAA is reconnecting the event with its community roots, strengthening ties between artists, volunteers, and local businesses, and ensuring that this iconic event continues to thrive for generations to come.

Stay tuned for exciting updates as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and reimagine the future of Art in the Park in Morro Bay. Three annual weekend summer shows are held in Morro Bay Park over Labor Day, Independence Day, and Memorial Day weekends. Please reach out if you would like to get involved!

Come get inspired!

Art Center Morro Bay is located at 835 Main St., Morro Bay, CA, open 12-4 p.m. daily. For more information, call (805) 772-2504 or visit artcentermorrobay.org.