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Eclectic Art Scene
Considered one of the “100 Best Small Art Towns in America” in America, Downtown Chico is packing quite a punch in the culture department, with its unique art events, public art, stores, galleries, classes, and well-known artists. From exhibitions and festivals to galleries and gift shops, Downtown Chico has everything needed to feed the creative in all of us.

Eclectic Art Scene

Image of 79c Chico Art School

Artoberfest

October in Downtown Chico is all about the arts. Artoberfest is one of the many events celebrating arts and the Chico community during October. This annual celebration is all about the joining of arts, culture, and local nonprofit organizations to showcase some of the amazing creativity in the community. Artoberfest is a festival complete with more than 100 free concerts, live performances, art exhibitions, food activities, and much more. There is no better way to welcome the fall season than by celebrating the talent within the Chico community.

Chico Paper Company

For more than 46 years, Chico Paper Company has been serving the local community as both a gallery and a custom framing shop. This 2,500-square-foot gallery is home to the work of more than 25 local artists, as well as pieces from artists around the globe. The talented and friendly staff offers guests a dynamic experience, whether it's through buying art, custom framing a project, or sharing the talents of our represented artists. The Chico Paper Company also specializes in conservation framing to ensure favorite pieces last a lifetime.

Art Etc.

Frame what you love at Art Etc. in Downtown Chico. This custom framing shop also features a variety of pieces from local artists, including the arts-and-crafts style of prints and tiles of Prairie Bungalow. Sometimes you can even find antiques and estate items for sale at Art Etc., making it the place to go for custom framing and more!

Jake Early

Chico native and Wildcat alum Jake Early creates one-of-a-kind pieces reflective of the rich history and scenery of California's coast, mountains, and cities. Early illustrates and prints each unique piece by hand, using a printing press he designed and built himself in his local studio. A trademark of Early's work is the use of metallic inks, created by mixing powdered metals into a clear ink base. These inks pick up and reflect light, often changing the mood of the prints as natural lighting conditions change. Stop at Chico Paper Company (see above) to appreciate Early's work up close.

Chico Art School and Gallery

To view the beautiful work of local artist Janet Lombardi Blixt and explore your own creative side, Chico Art School and Gallery is the place to go. Voted "Best Visual Artist" by Chico News & Review readers for nine years and "Best Instructor" for three years, Janet Lombardi Blixt teaches art classes for adults and children.

Janet's goal is to share the rewards of art: learning new techniques, self-exploration, and keeping art fun.

East Out West Gallery

East Out West Gallery was established in 2016 with the purpose to keep art and art related apparel alive and available to local communities and residents. The gallery started as a traveling exhibit of custom jewelry and has grown to clothing, paintings, and accessories. From high end to alternative artists, our eclectic collaborators bring a fresh perspective on art and fashion.

Ellis Art & Supplies

To get started on your next art project, head down to Ellis Art & Supplies. Ellis has everything needed to feed the creative in you, from paints and brushes to engineering and safety supplies.

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