ArtHop promotes local artists, showcases Central Valley diversity
Looking for a fun way to encounter art and connect with local artists? ArtHop is a bimonthly event that features galleries, exhibitions, and special performances across Fresno. It offers an immersive experience into the cultural and artistic diversity of the Central Valley.
The free event occurs on the first and third Thursday of every month and includes over 60 different locations throughout the year. The event was first run by the Fresno Arts Council (FAC) 23 years ago.
The FAC is a private, non-profit organization whose mission is to “Enrich people’s lives through the arts in Fresno County.” A board of volunteers facilitates 12 different programs designed to connect people of all backgrounds to the arts, which includes the ArtHop.
One gallery that eventgoers can visit every third Thursday of the month is the Art Groove in Riverpark, hosted by B Awesum. The location features artists with a variety of styles and art mediums. Melanie Glass, founder of B Awesum and curator of the gallery, is passionate about providing a diverse public art experience.
“I have such a large range of artwork,” Glass said. “It has to be interesting, eye-catching, something different for the community to see, and something that I think people can interpret and get a good positive vibe.”
Artists can apply to be featured at Art Groove events by emailing B Awesum. Art enthusiasts can look forward to the creation of a permanent spot for the ArtHop and theatrical arts in the Edwards theater by summer of 2023.
Another location featured in the Oct. 20 ArtHop was the Armenian Museum of Fresno. The non-profit museum highlighted the work of Sam Zumian, an internationally acclaimed artist.
To stay updated with featured locations, check out the FAC website and Instagram account. The next ArtHop is on Nov. 3.
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For more articles about community events, read Fresno fall fun and Annual 9/11 Memorial honors fallen heroes, unites community.
Bryce Foshee • Nov 14, 2022 at 9:14 am
Nice that is some hopping art!
Silva Emerian • Nov 5, 2022 at 10:29 pm
This was a really engaging article, Zoe! I’ve gone to ArtHop so many times but learned more about it thanks to you. Keep up the great work!