Fall, friends and Davis’ art-filled nights await
By IQRA AHMAD — arts@theaggie.org
Welcome home Aggies!
As the leaves begin to blush into shades of red and orange and the Davis bike paths come back to life with sounds of ringing bells and calls of “on your left,” the familiar endearments of fall are finally arriving. There is so much to be excited about, but most especially your very first 2nd Friday ArtAbout.
For the uninitiated, every second Friday of the month, the heart of Downtown Davis throws on its very best creative outfit. Local artists and galleries open their doors, set up booths and invite students and community members to explore. The sidewalks are packed with visitors, and downtown is more bustling than ever. It’s the perfect place to spend a Friday afternoon, especially when you need a fun evening with your friends and want to appreciate the local art scene.
But what should you visit first and why should you participate? Now we’re asking all of the right questions.
A cornerstone and beloved treasure of the 2nd Friday ArtAbout is the Pence Gallery, located at 212 D St.
“The Pence Gallery is packed with art throughout our two floors, featuring three gallery spaces for exhibits,” Jenna Matsubara, a marketing associate at the Pence Gallery, said.
Admission is always free, and the gallery provides an artwalk map to help you explore other local stops.
“You can view art of all types, meet local artists and even get to know the friendly businesses in town,” Matsubara said.
Each month, the Pence Gallery also offers something new.
“You can participate in a fun, art-themed scavenger hunt by exploring the art on display at the Pence and completing all of the clues,” Matsubara said.
From October to November, you’ll find new exhibits at the Pence Gallery featuring artists like Robert Ortbal, whose exhibition “Encounters” includes a 20-foot sculpture, and Raquel Cox, an oil painter whose works capture moments of beauty and poetry on canvas. Each visit feels new and exciting, whether you’re returning for your second ArtAbout or your 20th.
Now, what about your next stop?
The answer is The Artery, a repeat champion of the category “Best Place to Buy a Gift” in The Davis Enterprise’s “Best of Yolo” survey.
“Discover a world of artistic expression as you explore our gallery, featuring a breathtaking array of decorative and functional ceramics, exquisite woodwork, captivating glass creations, intricate fiber arts, timeless sculpture, vibrant paintings, evocative drawings, captivating prints, and stunning photography,” The Artery website reads.
Currently, The Artery is showcasing works by Thelma Weatherford, John Scott, Jerry DeCamp and Schorré Chevalier Oldham until Sept. 29 — a perfect preview of local art to check out before your first ArtAbout.
But, don’t stop there: Davis has many must-visit places. There’s truly something for everyone — Logos Books for literary wanderers, the Davis Craft and Vintage Fair for collectors of handmade charms and The Paint Chip for anyone who wants to pick up a paintbrush.
If you’re a long-time art lover or just looking for a fun, Friday night adventure, the 2nd Friday ArtAbout is the perfect way to engage with Davis’ creative community and ventures. So, grab some friends, take a stroll downtown and let the art (and maybe the bike bells) guide you.
Written by: Iqra Ahmad — arts@theaggie.org
