ARTS

Benicia’s resident artists share their talents via an eclectic mix of media and styles, including glass art, prints, sculpture, ceramics, photographs, paintings and even hand-screened wallpaper. The city is particularly known for its art glass studios, where you can often see nationally acclaimed glass artists at work.

Nearly 80 artists have opted to locate their studios in an enclave known as The Arsenal, a former military reservation that now exudes a bohemian feel, given the depth and quality of creative expression that goes on there.

Helping give the artistic community a focus and collective voice is Arts Benicia, a nonprofit art center located in The Arsenal. Arts Benicia maintains a world-class gallery, offers excellent classes and art experiences for all ages, sponsors exhibitions in locations throughout Benicia, and coordinates many events, including artists’ Open Studios the first weekend in May.

The City of Benicia Arts and Culture Commission serves to ensure that arts and culture are integral to our community’s quality of life, economic vitality, and central identity. Under the direction of the City Council, the commission works with public and private organizations to create and promote art, cultural programs and activities within Benicia.

Benicia also enjoys a vibrant performing arts community, with twice-yearly, professional-quality productions by the highly regarded Benicia Old Town Theatre Group and frequent performances by locally and regionally known musicians at venues such as the First Street Café, Lucca Beer Garden, and The Rellik Tavern.