Out of the 58 counties in California, Humboldt County has the highest number of artists. People who are living in gorgeous Northern California are surrounded by so much natural beauty that creating their artwork is inevitable. Here are 6 ways to appreciate art in Humboldt County, CA.
“The object isn’t to make art, it’s to be in that wonderful state which makes art inevitable.”
~ Robert Henri
#1 The Redwood Riverwalk Hotel
You don’t have to go far to see some great artwork from our local artists. Before you step one foot into our hotel, you’ll see Joshua Martel’s outdoor mural of the redwoods. The metallic paint he used adds depth and brilliance to make this a stunning piece. Two exterior hallways are freshly adorned with two new murals, upstairs from artist Blake Reagan and downstairs from artist Gina Tuzzi. Both are showing us the local landscape in bright pastels. Inside, our lobby displays an exquisite mural map of the North Coast complete with legends and symbols. As you move around the corner into the game area, you’ll see a vintage postcard style tribute to the town of Fortuna. Even while taking a luxurious swim, you can gaze at a large mural of the redwood forest.
#2 Humboldt Arts Council
Founded in 1966, the Humboldt Arts Council has worked hard to bring the California North Coast’s rich artistic cultural heritage to the community. The Council is especially diligent in bringing the arts to local schools and providing programs for the children within Humboldt County. The Council has opened the first arts museum and museum store, multiple galleries, a sculpture garden, a performance rotunda, and classrooms.
Morris Graves Museum
The Morris Graves Museum opened in 2000 featuring exhibits of artists both local and global. Although many of the exhibits come and go, the Museum offers a permanent collection of Morris Graves artwork and a few other internationally-known artists. You can contact the Museum to schedule a tour. They also offer customized tours including lessons on specific exhibits, art projects inspired by specific art pieces, and integrated lesson plans with current classroom topics. The first Saturday of every month you can have all-day access with free admission and kids 17 and under may visit for free every day.
Humboldt Art Gallery
The Humboldt Art Gallery is located in the Museum and holds exhibits by local artists. It’s a great way to support these artists. Better yet, you’ll be able to choose one-of-a-kind gifts for your special friends and family.
#3 Trinidad Art Gallery
The Trinidad Art Gallery is a collective gallery of local artists. Founded in 2012, it is located in the historic Reicke House which was built in 1900. The main focus of these artists is the stunning natural beauty of Northern California—the ocean, the redwoods, and the vast array of wildlife. When you visit Trinidad, you will see amazing exhibits of hand painted ceramics, striking blown glass pieces, beautiful shots caught by photographers, luxurious fabric and beadwork, copper sculptures, wood turned pieces, and more. You have the option of visiting in person or browsing through their online store.
#4 Redwood Art Association
Founded in 1956, the Redwood Art Association had an initial goal to promote visual art within the community. It is the oldest artist group in Humboldt County with over 250 artists and supporters who “value art as an essential component of every aspect of our culture.” At the Redwood, you will see a full schedule of exhibitions, which is not only great for local artists, but also for those of us who love being surrounded by beautiful artwork.
#5 Arcata Artisans Cooperative
The Arcata Artisans Cooperative also provides a full schedule of exhibits. Their goal is to provide a retail space and gallery for local artists to display and market their work. Once again, this group offers a huge variety of artists: painters, photographers, sculptors, artists who create jewelry, ceramics, and so much more.
#6 Humboldt County’s Natural Beauty
We simply could not talk about art and not mention all the beauty that nature has to offer here in the North Coast of California. Stately redwoods standing like sentinels guarding miles of gorgeous hiking trails and wooded areas. The coastline offers a variety of natural art, from soft sand and gentle waves to rugged rocks and crashing waves. Here in Humboldt County you will also see a broad range of wildlife including the black-tailed deer, black bear, gray fox, North American cougar, bobcat, and Roosevelt elk.
As you’re planning your artistic getaway to take advantage of these 6 ways to appreciate art in Humboldt County, CA, book your stay at The Redwood Riverwalk Hotel. Your room awaits where “friends take care of friends.” Check availability.
