The Riverside Artswalk – Exploring art in Riverside
The Riverside Artswalk – Where to go!
It’s no secret, there is a lot to explore when it comes to art here in Riverside. I really appreciate how much there is to soak in for inspiration, right here in my own back yard. One of my favorite artist events here in Riverside is the monthly Riverside Artswalk. On the first Thursday of each month from 6-9PM, all the local artists gather downtown on Main Street (Between 6th – 10th St.) to display their art, prints and fun hand crafted goods. The fun part, is that it doesn’t stop there. There are over 20 downtown locations including museums, galleries and studios open to the public bringing you an eclectic mix visual and performing arts.
Art and Food in Downtown Riverside
Endless food options at the Riverside Food Lab
I suggest arriving before the Riverside Artswalk starts to take advantage of the fine dining options downtown Riverside has to offer! If you’d like to kill two birds with one stone, check out Retro Taco which has great food, but also features a large retro mural inside as well as a featured local artist wall.
The Riverside Food Lab is a great choice if you’re having a hard time deciding what to eat. The Food Lab features 12+ different food vendors and 2 bars. The first thing you might notice is the large black and white mural that stretches around the inside walls. There is also a colorful mural towards the back restroom area if you’re looking to scope out more art. Keeping in trend with the art talk, I should also note that both Retro Taco and the Food Lab hold regular painting events with The Paint Sesh where you can get your drink on while painting your own acrylic masterpiece.
Another downtown classic is Back 2 The Grind, which regularly features local artists on their walls and is perfect if you’re looking to grab a coffee or tasty snack instead.
Art Galleries, Museums and Local Shops
There are several galleries and museums which offer FREE admission on the first Thursday of each month during the Riverside Artswalk. The Riverside Art Museum displays art from locals and artists all over the world. The exhibits at the RAM are always changing throughout the year so rest assured, there’s always something new to see!
The Cheech is new to the Riverside art scene and features Chicano artwork from the private collection donated by Cheech Marin of the infamous “Cheech & Chong”. The Cheech features a variety of Chicano art, not only paintings, but sculpture, photography, and video arts as well.
The Riverside Community Arts Association Center is also a must visit during your art adventure. This gallery features several local Riverside artists and really gives you a sense of the positive energy in the Riverside art scene.
The last two on my list are Pain Sugar Gallery and Urge Palette which are conveniently located next to each other. Pain Sugar Gallery hosts regular art exhibits featuring painting, photography and mixed media. After an evening of soaking in the local art vibes, you might feel inspired to get creative. Urge Palette Art supplies is a great spot to stock up on art supplies.
For a more up to date list of other venues that are participating in the arts walk, head on over to the the official Riverside Artswalk website.
Get involved with the Riverside Artswalk
Become a part of the pulse at the Riverside Artswalk and display your art. The Riverside Artswalk First Thursdays is hosted by the Riverside Arts Council and sponsored by the City of Riverside and Riverside Downtown Partnership. If you’d like more information how you can get involved head on over to their websites “Vendor Opportunities” page or to sign up to vend in the Artswalk vendor lot, just click here.
Helpful Tip: Avoid getting on the vendor wait list. Sign up on the first Thursday immediately at midnight for top of the list placement when they pick vendors.
