Welcoming new artists, classes and events

Our artist of the month, Glenda Rich, is an experienced artist who worked for Thomas Kinkade in the production of his artwork. She usually works with oil paint but will be teaching with acrylics at our paint night class this month. She has a selection of local landscapes, as well as other subjects displayed in our shop for the month of July.

Susan Jane is a local weaver and Renaissance Faire addict, who often spins her own yarn. She has a selection of hand-woven scarfs and table runners, as well as other items. She also teaches yarn spinning classes.

Alyssa Dominguez has a display of diamond paintings for sale and will be teaching a how-to class in this new type of art.

Tony Amero, a long-time local resident, creates quality handmade stainless steel rings inlaid with various gemstones, including turquoise opal, amethyst garnets and others. He will take orders for custom rings, often at no extra cost.

Colleen Farrel, another longtime resident and local teacher, is offering a collection of clay products including mugs, plates, bowls, candle holders and of course her paintings. Her dinnerware is microwave safe. The apple does not fall far from the tree as her son Jason also has original art for sale.

Under 18 years old welcome

Tehachapi Arts Center welcomes, encourages and is proud of our young people here in Tehachapi. We are developing our Young Artist Club to encourage the younger people in the community. Call Grayson Kamerer at (562) 451-9061 for more information on when the free to attend Saturday events will occur. In July every Saturday except July 22.

New hours at the Arts Center

We are now open seven days a week and are open until 6 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Note: we stay open later for special events such as Thursday's Farmers Market. If the flags are out, were open.

Events this month

On Saturday, July 8 at 5 p.m. Susan and Johnathon are back with another Improv Night. It's a fun way to exercise your mind, meet people, make new friends and enjoy yourself while participating in various scenarios and activities.

Bring a friend and see what you can think up.

Jam Night: Dust off that old guitar, bass, keyboard, ukulele or whatever you have and come on out for a fun night of music and socializing. We are mostly a group of intermediate musicians so don't think you have to be great to join us. Bring a few copies of songs you want us to play. We usually start around 6 p.m. but you can arrive as early as 5 p.m. People coming from work arrive as late as 8 p.m. This month it's Tuesday nights on July 11 and 25.

Children's Art Class: Every Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. We also offer a private class for birthdays or your own group of friends. Call the Arts Center for more information.

As mentioned before our guest artist Glenda Rich is conducting Paint Night on Saturday, July 15 at 5:30 p.m. Glenda chose a beautiful country scene complete with old barn as this months subject. We are glad to have her join us.

Cathy's Polymer clay class: On Saturday, July 22, Cathy is going to help you create a beautiful plant jar from polymer clay. I bought one of my favorites last year for my wife. They are beautiful and useful. And now you can make your own. All materials provided. Great family project and something you can keep or give as a unique gift to someone special.

Introduction to Diamond Painting: If you don't know what diamond painting is, join the club. You create a detailed painting using thousands of little diamond shaped crystals. It comes out very vibrant and colorful. On Sunday, July 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. Alyssa will show you how to make your own, including providing you with a diamond painting kit. You do not need to know how to draw but you do need some patience.

We sell art supplies

The Arts Center has increased its inventory of art supplies. We have more paints and for the first-time alcohol ink is available. We also have polymer clay.

Alari Designs

In order to streamline production, our Jeweler Alari Designs is changing their hours. The new Jewelry shop hours are Saturdays noon to 5 p.m. or by appointment. Call or text (661) 805-0849 for more information.

Join our co-op

If you are looking for a place to display your art, consider joining us here as a co-op member or an Artist Vender. If you have an artistic skill you would like to share, you can teach a class in our classroom. Young artists are welcome, too. We're proud to have a growing number of up-and-coming artists getting their first start here at the Arts Center.

Our Facebook page manager Marta Escanuelas has been very busy, so don't forget to visit us there. You can view all the classes and updates online.

The Tehachapi Arts Center (TAC) is a cooperative continuing in the tradition of Mel White's Treasure Trove. TAC provides a venue for local artisans to gather, learn, teach, display, and sell their art. We are located at 116 E. Tehachapi Blvd. (across the street from the water tower). TAC is open Sunday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Note: we stay open later for special events such as Thursday's Farmer's Market. If the flags are out we are open. You can reach us at: (661) 822-6794.