welcome to the
Arts Council
of Kern
Come explore the arts
with us!
We work hard to make art accessible to all our residents and pride ourselves on highlighting traditional and contemporary artists in and around the county. We are your starting point for discovering new experiences and programs that will unlock your creativity and introduce you to new ideas.
You’re Invited!
Intertwined – Woven Words & Works
Exhibition Opening: November 7, 2025
Location: Arts Council of Kern – West and East Gallery
Join the Arts Council of Kern for an evening celebrating the beauty of connection through art, poetry, and music. Intertwined explores the many ways creativity brings people and cultures together — like threads woven into a single, shared story. This exhibition features an inspiring collection of local and regional artists showcasing paintings, fiber art, sculpture, photography, poetry, and sound. Each piece reflects the theme of “weaving” — whether through material, language, rhythm, or meaning. Experience a gallery filled with texture, color, and narrative — where visual art meets the written and spoken word.
Capricious Copper
by Featured Artist Toni Best
Learn the Art of Weaving
Toni Best
$50 Per Person / $25 for ACK Members
THURS / NOV 6, 2025 / 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Arts Council of Kern
1020 18th Street
Downtown Bakersfield
About the Class
Students will learn to coil glycerin-treated pine needles onto a prepared gourd using the distinctive “V” stitch, creating beautiful contrast and texture. Working on smaller gourds allows most participants to finish their piece during class, with materials provided to complete it at home of needed. This time-honored craft reflects techniques still practiced by Native American artisans today.
ENROLL IN CLASSES WITH TOP INSTRUCTORS
COME LEARN FROM PROFESSIONALS THAT HAVE BEEN TRAINING IN THEIR
VARIOUS FIELDS FOR YEARS.
Art Sherwyn
Ryan Rickard
Em Radmacher
2025-26 Learning and Events
Members get FREE seat access | Everyone must pay materials fee
Shop local at Makers Market inside the Arts Council of Kern! Discover handcrafted goods by Bakersfield artists and take home a piece of our creative community.
Open Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM at 1020 18th Street.
INTRODUCING SECOND SATURDAY!
Second Saturday is part of a larger, city-wide celebration of local art and small business that takes place one Saturday each month in downtown Bakersfield. As part of this grander event, the Arts Council of Kern hosts our own vendor fair from 9 AM to 1 PM inside our building at 1020 18th Street.
It’s a fun and creative opportunity for artists, makers, and vendors to sell their work, meet the community, and even create live during the event. Since we’re not usually open on Saturdays, Second Saturday gives artists a special extra day each month to connect, showcase, and make sales in a festive setting.
If you’re interested in joining us as a vendor, click the button below to apply!
Become a Member With Us!
Become a Member of the Arts Council of Kern
When you become a member of the Arts Council of Kern, you’re not just joining a creative community—you’re helping build it. Your membership directly supports local artists, youth programs, public art projects, and arts education throughout Kern County.
As a member, you’ll enjoy invitations to exclusive events, gallery openings, and community celebrations, along with opportunities to connect with fellow art lovers and cultural leaders. Most importantly, you’ll be playing a vital role in ensuring the arts continue to thrive across our region.
Support the arts. Celebrate creativity. Make a lasting impact.
Support Local Artists at First Friday’s ArtWalk
Hosted by the Arts Council of Kern, the ArtWalk will showcase a diverse array of talents, featuring artists, artisans, and vendors, creating a dynamic atmosphere for attendees. Engage in hands-on experiences such as jewelry making and storytelling, making this event a unique and enriching way to celebrate the month of creativity!
ArtWalk takes place in downtown Bakersfield on the first Friday of every month, from October through June.
The cost to participate as an artist-vendor is $35 per month.
Support Local Artists at First Friday's ArtWalk
Hosted by the Arts Council of Kern, the ArtWalk will showcase a diverse array of talents, featuring artists, artisans, and vendors, creating a dynamic atmosphere for attendees. Engage in hands-on experiences such as jewelry making and storytelling, making this event a unique and enriching way to celebrate the month of creativity!
ArtWalk takes place in downtown Bakersfield on the first Friday of every month, from October through June.
The cost to participate as an artist-vendor is $35 per month.
