The Art Gallery at Sonoma State University (SSU) has been a vital part of the university’s Art Department since 1978, providing almost 2,500 square feet of exhibition space across two adjoining galleries. As a center for creativity and experimentation, the Art Gallery serves as an educational and cultural resource for both the campus and surrounding communities.
In This Article
Key Points
- The Art Gallery hosts exhibitions featuring modern and contemporary artists of regional, national, and international significance.
- It presents the work of SSU art studio faculty and annual student exhibitions each spring.
- The Art Gallery publishes catalogs and brochures, and hosts events such as artist lectures and panel discussions.
Exhibitions and Programs
Throughout its 40+ year history, the Art Gallery has organized numerous museum-quality exhibitions, including solo and group shows ranging from experimental installations and multimedia works to more traditional styles and techniques. The gallery also presents the work of SSU art studio faculty and annual student exhibitions each spring, showcasing the talent and creativity of the university’s art community.
In addition to its exhibitions program, the Art Gallery publishes catalogs and brochures to accompany its shows and hosts a variety of events, such as:
- Artist lectures
- Panel discussions
- The annual Art from the Heart benefit auction, which features works donated by emerging and nationally recognized artists to support the gallery’s programs
Art Education and Community Engagement
As part of its role as a teaching facility, the Art Gallery provides hands-on experience for students in Art History, Art Studio, and other majors in the field of museum and gallery methods and arts administration. This unique opportunity allows students to gain valuable skills and knowledge that can be applied to future careers in the arts.
The Art Gallery also serves as a source of educational and cultural enrichment for the surrounding communities, offering public programs that engage visitors with the exhibitions and foster an appreciation for the visual arts. By bringing together artists, scholars, students, and community members, the Art Gallery contributes to the vibrant cultural landscape of Sonoma County and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Sonoma State University Art Department
The Art Gallery is an integral part of SSU’s Art Department, which has been the hub of visual art on campus and in Sonoma County for nearly half a century. The department offers rigorous undergraduate education in the study and practice of the visual arts, with programs leading to BA and BFA degrees in art studio (with emphases in 2D, 3D, and Photo/Media) and a BA degree in art history.
The Art Department is housed in one of the best-equipped facilities within the California State University system, with 46,604 square feet of space dedicated to the pursuit of studio art practices and the study of art history and museum and gallery studies. As a fully accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, the department is committed to providing students with an exceptional educational experience that fosters intellectual, cognitive, social, and personal growth.
Visiting the Art Gallery
The Art Gallery at Sonoma State University is located on the university’s beautiful 274-acre campus in Rohnert Park, California, approximately one hour north of San Francisco. Visitors can easily access the gallery by taking the SMART train to the Rohnert Park station, which is just a short walk from the Art Department building.
Admission to the Art Gallery is free, and exhibitions are open to the public during regular gallery hours. For more information about current and upcoming exhibitions, events, and programs, visit the Art Gallery’s website at
FAQ
What types of exhibitions does the Art Gallery host?
The Art Gallery hosts a diverse range of exhibitions featuring modern and contemporary artists of regional, national, and international significance, as well as the work of SSU art studio faculty and annual student exhibitions.
Is there an admission fee to visit the Art Gallery?
No, admission to the Art Gallery is free, and exhibitions are open to the public during regular gallery hours.
How can I learn more about current and upcoming exhibitions and events at the Art Gallery?
Visit the Art Gallery’s website at for information about current and upcoming exhibitions, events, and programs.
Does the Art Gallery offer any educational programs for students?
Yes, the Art Gallery provides hands-on experience for students in Art History, Art Studio, and other majors in the field of museum and gallery methods and arts administration as part of its role as a teaching facility.
How can I support the Art Gallery’s programs and exhibitions?
You can support the Art Gallery by attending the annual Art from the Heart benefit auction, which features works donated by emerging and nationally recognized artists. Proceeds from the auction directly benefit the gallery’s programs and publications.
