Eclectic Art Scene

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.

Vagabond Rose Gallery & Framing

Vagabond Rose Gallery & Framing offers beautiful artwork and thoughtful gifts, with exceptional customer service that reflects the warm, personal touch of old Chico. It's a delight to browse the collection while enjoying friendly conversations with a knowledgeable and helpful staff, who always take the time to connect and share new surprises, ensuring a high-quality shopping experience every visit.

Chico History Museum

Housed in the historic Andrew Carnegie Library in downtown Chico, adjacent to the California State University campus, the Chico Museum has been offering memorable exhibits since 1986, serving as both a classroom for children and a resource for adults seeking knowledge of Chico's rich heritage. The museum's Carnegie and McIntyre Galleries feature changing exhibits that explore topics like the history of Chico, with permanent displays including the Mechoopda Exhibit, The Bidwells, the Chico Chinese Temple, Chico's natural wonders, and a topographic map of Northern California.

Janet Turner Print Museum 

The Janet Turner Print Museum at California State University, Chico, showcases an international collection of prints to engage and inspire the public through dynamic exhibitions and educational programs. Founded by Dr. Janet Turner, the museum honors her legacy of promoting printmaking as both an art form and a teaching tool.

Satava Art Glass

Richard Satava's art glass, originally inspired by Art Nouveau, exploded into breathtaking, nature-driven designs like Harvest Moons, Mt. Shasta, and Native American motifs. In the 1990s, his work took a captivating turn toward ocean life, with the Moon Jellyfish and Nautilus series, born from a mesmerizing visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium—leading to the Moon Jellyfish becoming one of his most iconic and sought-after creations. Come explore this stunning collection at their gallery and experience the magic of nature captured in glass!