Supporting Our Arts Community
July-August 2023
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Lafayette Chamber Announcements |
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10am-7pm Saturday, 10am-6pm Sunday
Downtown Lafayette
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TODAY'S EMAIL BLAST IS SPONSORED BY
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Upcoming Events & Special Announcements from our Arts Community |
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Lafayette Summer Music Workshop
Since 1999, the week-long Lafayette Summer Music Workshop provides an intimate and inspiring environment for learning and playing jazz. The Workshop, led by Bob Athayde, will be held this week at Stanley Middle School and culminates in a final concert that is free and open to the public on Friday, July 14 from 3:30 to 9:30 p.m. You are welcome to bring your own picnic dinner and sit outside at the tables where you can hear the concert.
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“EXPANSIVE, VISUALLY ADVENTUROUS … FILLED WITH LYRICAL BEAUTY … MOMENTS OF MAGIC AND UNEXPECTED HOPE.” – NEW YORK TIMES ‘CRITIC’S PICK’
Friday, July 14th - 4:30 PM
Friday, July July 14th - 7:30 PM
Saturday, April 15th - 4:30 PM
Saturday, July 15th - 7:30 PM
Walnut Creek Library, 1644 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek
GENERAL ADMISSION: $13.00
Scarlett Synopsis: An enchanting period fable based on a beloved 1923 novella by Russian writer Alexander Grin. Shortly after World War I, veteran Raphaël (Raphaël Thiery) returns home from the frontlines to find himself a widower, with his infant daughter placed in his arms to raise. Living alone with her father in rural Normandy, Juliette (Juliette Jouan) grows into a lonely young woman who is passionate about singing and music. She seeks refuge in the nearby woods, where she meets a witch who promises scarlet sails will one day take her away from her village. Reckoning with her future and swept away by a rakish young pilot (Louis Garrel) who literally falls from the sky, Juliette never stops believing in the witch’s prophecy. Tracing Juliette’s journey throughout the 20 years of great invention between the world wars, Scarlet weaves together music and fantasy, history and folklore, to craft a magical realist fable of identity and emancipation. France / Italy / Germany | 2022 | 103 min | French with English subtitles - TRAILER
COVID HEALTH SAFETY PROTOCOLS: MASKS OPTIONAL, PROOF OF VACCINATION and ONE BOOSTER REQUIRED
Pro-rated MEMBERSHIPS FOR OUR 2023 SEASON AVAILABLE - Membership has its benefits, including a guaranteed seat at a price lower than general admission, access to a Member Lending Library of nine years of films, and more! Currently, memberships are still available in all four Series offered. MONTHLY FILMS ARE FREE FOR MEMBERS. IF YOU ARE NOT YET A MEMBER, CHECK OUT MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION HERE.
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Story Time at the Garden on July 15, 22 and 29
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New Exhibition and Special Event!
The Lafayette Public Art Committee is pleased to announce the opening of “Freedom of Abstraction” by local artist David Lew, whose work has been shown at the Bedford Gallery. This collection of vibrant abstract paintings and collages reflects the artist’s focus on freedom in life and through artistic medium. The visual effect of the paint’s fluid movement in these works invites the viewer into the process.
Lew will be giving the featured artist’s talk about his work on Saturday, July 15 as part of the Lamorinda Arts Council’s Art Embraces Poetry event from 1:30 to 3:30 pm at the Town Hall Theatre. Immediately following the program, the Lafayette Public Art Committee will host a reception for the artist from 3:30 to 5 pm. Both events are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided by the Public Art Committee.
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July 2023
Art Gallery at the Orinda Library: Altered Books, Photographs, Paintings & Illustrations July 1 – 29
The Lamorinda Arts Council presents altered books by Kelly Gentry, photographs by Karl Stinson, paintings by Cheryl Kampe and illustrations by Shiva Jafarzadeh during July in the Art Gallery at the Orinda Library. Visit http://www.lamorindaarts.org/gallery-2/ for more information. View and purchase art online with one click at
Virtual Art Gallery at Wilder: Figurative Portraits & Surreal Paintings by Jennifer Granat July 1 to August 5
The Lamorinda Arts Council features Concord artist Jennifer Granat’s figurative portraits and surreal paintings during July. “The seasons, along with recent deaths of loved ones, serve as personal reminders that life is indisputably, unscrupulously and unapologetically in a state of flux. So is my work,” she said. View and purchase Granat’s artwork online with one click at https://lamorindaarts.org/online-galleries/.
Call for Writers and Artists: Art Embraces Words 2023
The Lamorinda Arts Council invites writers and artists to apply to present their work at the free Art Embraces Words programs held at the Lafayette Library, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette from 2:00 – 3:30 pm, reception following. Remaining 2023 dates are Sat. Aug. 12, Oct. 28 and Dec. TBD. Apply online at https://lamorindaarts.org/art-embraces-words/.
Art of Mixology Craft Cocktail Competition October 14: Bartender Registration is Open
The 10th Annual Art of Mixology event at Orinda Theatre Square is Lamorinda Arts Council’s largest fundraiser of the year. Held October 14 from 4:30 – 7:00 pm, the event includes both professional and amateur bartenders competing for prizes. Registration is free at https://lamorindaarts.org/apply-for-mixology/; deadline is September 1.
Art Embraces Poetry Saturday July 15 1:30 – 3:30 Featuring Poet Nana-Dicta Graves
Lamorinda Arts Council features the Ekphrastic poetry of Nana-Dicta Graves at the Town Hall Theatre 3535 School Street, Lafayette; “No Host Bar” during event in theatre. Other featured poets include Peter Dudley and Antoinette LeCouteur; Anne Marie Feld Lowell of Orinda, Diana Jean Skeen of St. Mary’s College; and poet Elizabeth Robinson of Orinda Community Church. View LPAC’s featured artist David Lew’s “Freedom of Abstraction” exhibit also on display. Join us for an After Party in Lew’s honor begins at 3:30 pm hosted by LPAC. For more information or to participate in future programs visit https://lamorindaarts.org/art-embraces-words/ or call 925-359-9940.
Mocktails & Cocktails Sun July 30, 3 – 5 pm @ The Coop, 32 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette
Join friends of the Lamorinda Arts Council for conversations about the creative life. Bring whatever art, digital art, music, writing, etc. you are working on as a “prompt” to start the conversation. What is stirring up (or blocking) your creative juices? Look for our Picassoesque poster of Dora Maar (Picasso’s muse & model) — that’s us! No Host Bar – just show up. http://lamorindaarts.org
August 2023
Art Gallery at the Orinda Library – Paintings by Holly Bazley, Alexandra Saunders, Kendra Stone & Photographs by Jeff Heyman – Reception Aug. 5, 3 to 5 pm
The Lamorinda Arts Council presents paintings by Holly Bazley, Alexandra Saunders, Kendra Stone, and photographs by Jeff Heyman from July 29 to August 31 in the Art Gallery at the Orinda Library. Meet the artists at a reception in their honor on Saturday August 5 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. View and purchase their artwork at the reception or online with one click at www.lamorindaarts.org/online-galleries/. This exhibit runs through August 31.
Virtual Art Gallery at Wilder – “Nature in Abstraction”
The Lamorinda Arts Council presents a Virtual Art Gallery at Wilder exhibit during August featuring abstract artist David Lew of El Sobrante. His focus is on how he uses images of nature juxtaposed with textures and colors to effect fluid movement throughout his work. Lew’s virtual exhibit runs from August 5 to September 2. View it at https://lamorindaarts.org/current-exhibits-wilder/.
Art Embraces Words: August 12 2:00 – 3:30 pm
The Lamorinda Arts Council presents a free Art Embraces Words program held at the Lafayette Library Arts & Science Room, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette from 2:00 – 3:30 pm on Sat. Aug. 12. Featured Writers reading at the event include Brad Hoge, Dita Basu and Bob Poirier. Original artwork from local artists surrounds the spoken word. A reception outdoors in the Library Plaza immediately follows. Visit https://lamorindaarts.org/art-embraces-words/ for details.
Mocktails & Cocktails, Sun. Aug. 27 – 3-5 pm @ The Coop, 32 Lafayette Way, Lafayette
Join those who love art, literature, music and everything in between at The Coop, 32 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette, from 3-5 p.m. Sun. Aug. 27. Whether you are deep into your creative journey or blocked; we want to hear about it. Look for our framed Piccassoesque poster of a crazy art lady – that’s us! No host bar. Just show up. Questions? Email literary@lamorindaarts.org.
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Beat the Heat and Play in the Shade!
This Sunday, July 16, our All Ages Recreation Pop Up location has changed from super-sunny Plaza Park to oh-so-shady Oak Bridge parking lot on the corner of Golden Gate Way and 1st Street, near the new Rain Garden. Remember to bring the whole family, from the very young to the young at heart! The Lafayette Parks and Recreation Department and the Community Foundation of Lafayette have teamed up to bring you a wide variety of fun choices, including: Giant Jenga, Giant Connect 4, chess, wooden train track, badminton, volleyball, ping pong, giant pick up sticks, kinetic sand, simple crafts, giant checkers, and a chance to win small prizes! Come on down this Sunday and play anytime from 1-4pm. More dates, locations, and activities may be added. Learn more here.
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The Peter Pan Foundation
The Peter Pan Foundation is performing at Disneyland! Monday, July 17, Disneyland's birthday, the Peter Pan Foundation will perform two 30 minute sets that will be live streamed on our PPF Facebook page. Log in to enjoy this magical musical performance!
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The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UC Berkeley
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Yes, and Wine! Adult Improv
Monthly at Town Hall Theatre
Next Class: July 23rd 7-9pm
Are you ready to try something new and have fun doing it? Join us for a beverage and play some improvised theatre games. These one-night-only classes are a great way to stretch your boundaries, meet new people, and have some laughs! Classes are open to improvisers of all skill levels.
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2023-2024 Season Subscriptions
Support Town Hall Theatre AND see all of our Main Stage and New Voices shows with a Season Subscription! A great savings on our already affordable prices, flexible exchanges with NO FEE, and missed performances Insurance. The Turn of The Screw by Jeffrey Hatcher, A Christmas Story by Jean Shepherd and Lucía Fuentes by J. Lynn Jackson. Order by mail, over the phone, or online!
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Fall 2023 Registration
Classes run August 19th-November 4th
Multi-week camps for rising Pre-K through high school!
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Whitchurch Glass Designs
Mesmerized, $329
Mesmerized by his own colorful reflection, this colorful sea turtle can't help but stare at himself, This 15" x 20" fused glass panel transmits beautiful colors when placed in a window or it can be hung on a wall with four 1" stainless steel standoffs. It is currently for available online at www.WhitchurchGlassDesigns.com.
Lafayette artist and resident, Cynthia Whitchurch creates her art by melting and bending colored glass into custom molds producing beautiful pieces including panels, bowls, plates, dishes, coasters, night lights and more. Her work is available at the Red Door Gift Shop in Brentwood, CA. She welcomes the opportunity to partner with local retailers to showcase her work. Contact Cynthia at WhitchurchGlassDesigns@yahoo.com.
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Diablo Ballet
Registration is open for Diablo Ballet School's 2023/24 year- Contra Costa County’s first school run by a professional ballet company! Classes are available for ages 3 and up including performance opportunities with Diablo Ballet. Also offered: Adult Ballet, Dance for Parkinson's, Open Intermediate/Advanced Technique, Beginning Teen Ballet and Boy's Ballet class (ages 5 - 10: https://diabloballet.org/school/registration.
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Papermoon Presents the Siesta Valley Music Series featuring the Animal Liberation Orchestra (ALO)
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Saturday, August 5 – Doors open at 5 p.m. for a 7 p.m. performance
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Sunday, August 6 – Doors open at 1 p.m. for a 3 p.m. performance
- Paper Moon Presents is bringing Animal Liberation Orchestra (ALO) back to the Bruns! It’ll be the best party of the summer, with music and dancing under the trees. ALO is Zach Gill (keyboards/vocals), Dan “Lebo” Lebowitz (guitars/vocals), Steve Adams (bass/vocals), Ezra Lipp (drums/vocals).
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Tickets: https://www.papermoonpresents.live
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We Players present The Keeper
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August 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 – Fridays and Saturdays at 6 p.m.; Sundays at 4 p.m.
- Somewhere in the abyss of sea and sky lives a lighthouse in limbo where Caretta tends and keeps. At a time when so many of us are much more closely acquainted with loneliness and isolation than we’d like to be, The Keeper tells the story of a woman who chooses a solitary existence with a singular purpose- to keep the light. A one-woman performance inspired by many true stories of female lighthouse keepers, the piece explores the comfort we can find in custom and the softness and ease in seclusion. Joy and absurdity abound in this transformative tale about the power of practice and patience. As we follow Caretta through her days caring for the light and its house, witnessing and learning the rules of this absurd place, we discover that the only remedy for seeping existential doubt is a magical solution.
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Tickets: https://www.weplayers.org/the-keeper-2023
For events At the Bruns, guests are encouraged to dress in layers, as temperatures at the outdoor venue can fluctuate widely even within the same day. Follow us for more updates and events on our website https://calshakes.org or socially @calshakes!
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Notes4Hope - reCelebrate the Summer of ’69
In 1969 Led Zeppelin and the Allman Brothers released their debut albums, and Notes4Hope is paying tribute to their deep music libraries. Join us...
reCelebrate the “Summer of ’69"
Hey Hey Mama and Freestone Peaches
All ages welcome, bar for 21 and over
Proceeds from the event support breast cancer research and prevention initiatives including the contents and distribution of Notes4Hope Wellness And Recovery (WAR) Kits.
Hey Hey Mama consists of Andrew Griffin, Mike Fiorentino, Derrin Fox and Kevin White who are fronted by multiple top Bay Area female vocalists. Their powerful performance will electrify the audience with their spectacular renditions from the Led Zeppelin catalog.
Freestone Peaches consists of Jeff Faust, Michael Berry, Mark Corsolini, Raymond Hauck, Ned Patchet, Paul Rustigian and Jefferson Bergey who together are Northern California’s premier Allman Brothers tribute band. They bring to life the raw energy and full throttle rock of this legendary band. Close your eyes and you’re transported back to the Fillmore East.
War Kits feature curated items that provide both comfort and education on swapping out daily-use products for non-toxic versions. These kits are only made possible by generous donors and are free to all recipients.
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Weekend of October 6-7th, Orinda Cal Shakes/Bruns Amphitheater
- Oktoberbrest featuring FUcancer IPA
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Lafayette Community Garden and Outdoor Learning Center Open House
Sunday, August 13, 11 - 2
You are invited!!! The Lafayette Community Garden and Outdoor Learning Center is celebrating its 12th year with a COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE on Sunday, August 13th from 11am to 2pm. The event is free and will feature inspirational speakers. Jim ‘Doc’ Hale will share fascinating information about wildlife in the East Bay and a beekeeper from Mt. Diablo Beekeepers will talk about the amazing nature of bees and art of beekeeping
In addition to the speakers, there will be guided tours of the garden, information on raising chickens, master gardening, native plants, family crafts, edible treats, iced tea and lemonade, and an opportunity to walk a labyrinth and see the garden’s Miwok Village.
Garden members will be on hand to answer gardening questions and show off a variety of gardening methods and practices including hinged covers that prevent critters from eating crops, vermiculture (worm composting), mulching, a butterfly garden, deer resistant plantings and so much more.
We look forward to seeing you on August 13! If you have questions, call (925) 946-0563.
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Moraga Art Gallery
Opening on August 16th at the Moraga Art Gallery in the Rheem Shopping Center at 432 Center Street, Moraga, an exhibit, "Wonders of Man and Nature," features photos by Wenda Pyman and acrylic paintings by Linh Kang. The show, which also includes paintings in other media, ceramics, jewelry, woodcraft, etchings, silk scarves and more by a score of member and guest artists runs until October 22nd. The public is cordially invited to a free opening reception on Saturday, August 19th from 5:00 to 7:00 pm when art lovers will gather to meet the artists, enjoy wine, light snacks, and live music befitting the gallery's gracious ambiance.
Images below:
Awakening by Wenda Pyman
The Calling by Thuy Linh Bennett Kang
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Support the Park Theater Renovation campaign with a fun day of golf at one of northern California’s premier courses - Orinda Country Club
It’s golf AND a great cause! The Park Theater Benefit Golf Tournament hosted by BALI Construction is on Monday, August 28, 2023 and pairs two iconic East Bay gems - the Park Theater and one of northern California’s finest golf courses, the beautiful Orinda Country Club. It will be a great day of golf and entertainment with prizes, delicious foods at the post-golf reception, a silent auction featuring foursomes from some of California’s top courses among other great opportunities, and all in support of the community-wide effort to renovate Lafayette’s iconic Park Theater.
Sponsorships are still available ranging from $500 to $5000 and all levels include tournament recognition as well as guest passes to the reception in the classic Orinda County clubhouse. Golfer fees are $550 per golfer with discounts available to foursomes, and include a boxed lunch, cart, drink tickets as well as additional reception guest pass. A significant portion of each fee is tax-deductible.
On behalf of the Park Theater Trust, we thank you for your support of this important fundraiser for the Park Theater Renovation campaign.
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Community Foundation of Lafayette's Summer Soiree!
Don't miss the Community Foundation of Lafayette's annual fundraiser where you can gather with friends and bid a warm sunset "Bon Soir" to another delightful Lafayette summer. Let's get together mix & mingle, drink, dine, donate & dance under the summer moon and stars.
Saturday, September 9, 2023, 6pm
Classic rock band and local favorite Other People's Money will put on a high-energy show that is not to be missed—with Bill Chan on lead guitar, Tom Velken on bass guitar, Steve Hall on drums, and Kevin Chew on lead vocals.
The party begins at 6pm with a champagne and hors de oeuvres reception, followed by a delicious three-course sit down dinner with wine pairings, decadent dessert bar, live auction, cash bar with signature cocktails and mocktails, and dancing under the stars.
This fun and festive al fresco event sold out previously. For tickets, please click HERE .
To learn more about the Community Foundation and the work it does to support local nonprofits, please click HERE.
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Saint Mary's College Museum of Art
Fall 2023: September 13 – December 10, 2023
Corita Kent
heroes & sheroes
Printed between 1968 and 1969, heroes and sheroes represents a body of bold colorful graphic words and images created by the artist, educator, and advocate for social justice, Corita Kent (1918-1986). Adapting the visual language of pop art in the midst of social and political justice, Kent’s work conveys messages of faith, acceptance and love supporting civil rights, labor, anti-war movements, nuclear disarmament and the political assassinations that would define the 1960s. The series of 29 prints highlights Kent’s momentum and belief in the power of collective action to revolutionize systems and evoke necessary change. This exhibition is organized in collaboration with the Corita Art Center of Los Angeles.
Lisa Congdon
Hold It Lightly
Illustrator and fine artist Lisa Congdon's current work, Hold it Lightly, explores themes of joy, liberation, and radical inclusion, displayed on printed matter featuring her bold, colorful illustrations and hand lettering. Exhibited in conversation with Corita Kent's Heroes & Sheroes series, Congdon's work reflects the profound personal impact of Kent's legacy.
Programs
Opening celebration: September 14, 4 to 8 p.m.
Artist Talk with Lisa Congdon: September 15 at 2 p.m.
Corita Kent Day: November 20 from 2 to 5:30 p.m.
VIP Reception with Lisa Congdon: September 13 from 6 to 8 p.m.
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The Diablo Symphony Orchestra's 2023–2024 season begins on Sunday afternoon, September 17, with Beethoven's lyrical Piano Concerto No. 4 featuring Randall Benway, a long-time Lafayette resident before his move to Olympia, Washington. Season and individual tickets are now available at the Lesher Center for the Arts box office (925-943-7469, in person at 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, or online through the DSO's website www.diablosymphony.org. The five-concert season is packed full of local talent and joy-filled music from Beethoven to jazz! Saxophone soloist Greg Brown takes us to New York City in the season's closing concert in May—and the orchestra itself tackles new heights when it brings Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring to Walnut Creek in March. A December holiday concert with story-teller Susan Strauss and local choir WomenSing, and a family-focused concert in April with violinist Mads Tolling (joined by young local violinists for a round of fiddle tunes) will engage the whole family. And the DSO’s Yen Liang Young Artist Competition—this year for string players—will again bring an exceptional young musician to the stage as guest soloist in a concerto of the winner's choice. Reserve your seats now and come experience the excitement of remarkable live music directed by the remarkable Matilda Hofman, also conductor in residence for Empyrean Ensemble at UC Davis and cover conductor for the San Francisco Symphony. We look forward to seeing you in September when Beethoven's piano concerto, along with Sibelius's Symphony No. 1 and majestic tone poem Finlandia, match the beauty of autumn and launch the orchestra’s 61st season.
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Susan Goldie Art
Susan Goldie Art is sequestered in the studio preparing new work for two shows this fall.
And, she is also busy, busy, busy, getting new work ready for the Lafayette Art and Wine Festival where she will debut her Biophilia Nature Series begun this spring during her artist residency. Please come by her booth to see live art demos, and talk about milkweed and monarchs. Spoiler alert: there will definitely be some Shibori tie dye pieces as well.
You can follow Susan’s Art journey by subscribing to her newsletter, and you can also see into her art studio practice on Instagram or Facebook.
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Come see new works by OnodaArt!
I have paintings of sheep, tall trees, orchards and of course our beautiful yellow hills. OnodaArt.com
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Robert Anke Fine Art & Author Illustrator!
Fine artist and author-illustrator Robert Anke has taught in the Lafayette School District for 22 years, the last twelve of them as the Stanley Middle School art instructor. His paintings have shown at various Bay Area galleries and benefits, and he also does commissions. Currently his work can be seen at Valley Art Gallery and the upcoming show at the Village Theater Art Gallery through Sept 30, as well as on his website at robertanke.com. His comics have been featured in the Contra Costa Times and on Pinkbike, the largest mountain biking website in the world, and his second illustrated children’s book, Octobert, is due out this fall. See Robert's work at the Lafayette Art & Wine Festival on Sept. 23-24 in the Local Artist Alley in La Fiesta Square!
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Become a lifetime Friend of the Chamber
A Friend of the Chamber membership provides a way for community members to support the efforts of the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce. We are 76 years strong and our mission continues “To promote and maintain a healthy business climate and to preserve and enhance the quality of life in Lafayette.”
All aspects that make up a community are important to us: schools, residents, churches and synagogues, community organizations, activities, and the city government. Chamber members work with representatives of all these groups for the betterment of our community. A lifetime Friend of the Chamber membership is $150 per family. Learn more here>>
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Quick Links to Lafayette Chamber Resources
Please note: to signup via text you will be asked for your birthdate. This information is not stored, it is only used for verify you are over 21 years of age.
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Sara Regan, Executive Director
251 Lafayette Circle, Ste 150, Lafayette, CA
Office hours by appointment only:
Monday-Thursday 9am-4pm, Friday 9am-1pm
Closed M-Thr 12:30-1pm for lunch.
(925) 284-7404
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