Imagine Art Center - Porterville, California

Imagine Art Center: A Vibrant Hub for Creativity in Porterville, CA

Nestled at 63 S Main St in the heart of Porterville, CA, the Imagine Art Center is a beacon of creativity and community engagement. This art center, established in 1965, has been a vital part of the city's cultural landscape, offering a wide array of artistic experiences for both locals and visitors alike.

Main Services

• Art Classes and Workshops: Imagine Art Center offers a diverse range of art classes, including painting, drawing, ceramics, and more. These classes cater to various skill levels, from beginners to advanced artists, and are taught by experienced, local instructors.
  • Clay Studio: Explore the art of ceramics with access to kilns, wheels, and hand-building tools.
  • Painting and Drawing: Master various techniques and mediums, such as watercolor, acrylic, and oil painting, and drawing fundamentals.
  • Specialty Workshops: Participate in one-time workshops focused on specific techniques, materials, or themes.
• Studio Rentals: For artists seeking a dedicated workspace, the Imagine Art Center offers studio rental spaces. These spaces provide access to shared facilities and equipment, fostering a collaborative artistic community.
• Field Trips and Outreach Programs: The art center extends its reach into the community through field trips and outreach programs. These programs aim to inspire creativity and appreciation for the arts in students and community members, often visiting schools, senior centers, and other local organizations.
• Support the Imagine Art Center: There are several ways to support this vital community resource, including donating, volunteering, and becoming a board member. These contributions help maintain and grow the art center's programs and facilities.
  • Donate: Financial contributions can be made online or by contacting the art center directly.
  • Volunteer: Lend your time and skills to assist with art classes, events, and administrative tasks.
  • Board Members: Become a part of the art center's leadership team by joining the board of directors.

Location and Access

The Imagine Art Center is conveniently located in downtown Porterville, with easy access to nearby amenities and attractions. The art center is situated just off Highway 65, making it easily accessible by car. Additionally, public transportation options are available within walking distance, including the Porterville Transit Center.

For those traveling by car, free on-site parking is available, with wheelchair-accessible spaces provided. The art center is also wheelchair-accessible, with a ramp leading to the main entrance and accessible restrooms on-site.

Featured Characteristics

• Historic Building: The Imagine Art Center is housed in a historic building that was once the Porterville City Hall. This charming structure has been carefully restored and adapted to serve as a vibrant art center, preserving Porterville's history while fostering creativity.
• Beautiful Gallery Space: The art center features a stunning gallery space that hosts rotating exhibitions, showcasing the work of local, regional, and national artists. This space also serves as a venue for community events, workshops, and art-related activities.
• Community Engagement: The Imagine Art Center is deeply committed to engaging with the local community. They organize various events throughout the year, such as art walks, workshops, and family-friendly activities, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for the arts.

Practical Information

• Address: 63 S Main St, Porterville, CA 93257, United States
• Phone: 5596151373
• Website: imagineartcenter.org
• Hours of Operation: Tuesday - Friday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, or by appointment

Positive Aspects from Reviews

With an average rating of 5/5 stars from 23 Google reviews, the Imagine Art Center receives high praise for its engaging atmosphere, dedicated instructors, and diverse offerings. Some of the positive aspects mentioned by reviewers include:

• The welcoming and fun community that fosters creativity and collaboration.
• The variety of art classes and mediums available, catering to different interests and skill levels.
• The high-quality instruction provided by passionate and knowledgeable teachers.
• The beautiful gallery space and historic building that create an inspiring environment for both artists and visitors.
• The art center's commitment to community engagement through events, workshops, and outreach programs.
• The convenient location and accessible facilities, including wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance.

These glowing reviews highlight the Imagine Art Center's dedication to nurturing creativity, fostering community engagement, and providing exceptional art-related experiences for all who visit.

👍 Reviews of Imagine Art Center

Lydia E.

5/5

We LOVE our art class! The entire community here is welcoming and fun. There is a great vibe! Lots of art to create. Painting, clay, watercolor. There are many options and theres guidance when needed. Art for sale! My daughter and I will definitely be returning for another round of classes.

richard B.

5/5

Great place to have here in our town! Nothing but caring individuals with plenty of activities for adults and children. The Center is very inviting my kids and I always feel welcome there. Also don't think you have to be a "professional artist" to visit or participate in one of the classes. I have been out of touch with my creative side for years and was intimidated getting back into it, but the environment and people there are so helpful you can't help but wanna make something special. Whether its a ceramic piece, canvas painting, or the memories. You will have something meaningful to take with you.

Erik H.

5/5

This place is fantastic experience and atmosphere for the city of porterville. It's a good place to hangout, learn new art skills like ceramics, painting and drawing. There's a cute store and the vibe/design is modern and honestly too good for porterville. If you aren't already going here do so now.

Edward S.

5/5

After being born and raised in Porterville 55 years this is one of the best places for families and Children. There has never been much creative activities before. This in my opinion is very therapeutic and helps children to discover their individual talents. Thanks Imagine ☺️. Great place to spend time

Kristal M.

5/5

Imagine Community Arts Center is such a special place. It’s one of the only places I’ve ever been where I truly feel like my children are not only allowed but encouraged to be children. They are encouraged to use their imagination and make projects they are proud of in an environment that is so supportive and fun. The staff is so gentle with them. Every one of my children from my toddler to my older children get exactly the experience they need every time. Whether that be making clay masterpieces or just spraying clay with a spray bottle on repeat. It’s just a place for them to experience art in the way that they are developmentally able.
We especially want to express appreciation for Paul. He is so good with the children during children’s clay and really helps guide them in their learning.
So happy a place like this exists in our community.

Patricia S.

5/5

I felt so welcome and comfortable there, my sister Maria Roman was greeting us as we got there, I even had hot apple cider and a few cookies. Exceptionally excellent work you all.

Harpreet S.

5/5

My kids loved it. Staff is very nice and extremely helpful. Couldn't ask for anything more, and I highly recommend it.

Michelle G.

5/5

What a fun place. Had a great time in such a wonderful atmosphere.