Palace has been sponsoring art ventures in and around Santa Cruz County from the very beginning, that being 1949. In the 60s and 70s classes were held at the downtown store and events were scheduled every month for local folks who had a yearning to learn about art.

Now, years later and with the addition of the Capitola store, Palace is an active supporter of the arts in Santa Cruz and neighboring counties.  As we launch this site, we are continuing to look for new ways to reach out to the community of artists. Following are a few of the organizations that Palace has been proud to support throughout the years…

Cultural Council of Santa Cruz

The Cultural Council is proud supporter of the Arts in Santa Cruz County. Whether it be visual, literary, music, dance, theatre, or arts education in our schools, be assured the Council is there to lend vital support and sponsorship to the presence, success, and growth of this invaluable fundamental element in all of our lives.

Check out the link for a list of some of the individuals and arts organizations making culturally diverse art in Santa Cruz County.

Santa Cruz Art League

The mission of the Art League is to function as an agent for the artistic experience. The Santa Cruz Art League encourages visual and performing arts in an environment that is supportive to the artist, to students, and to the community. Approximately twelve art shows are held each year, some for members, some juried, and some invitational. The League holds three-hour, five- to six-week long classes and monthly weekend workshops throughout the year, as well as children’s theater classes, theater productions, and monthly book readings and signings by local authors.

Cabrillo Music Festival

In a magnificent tent in the City Hall gardens across from the Civic Auditorium, children will experience art in all its forms for two full days of hands-on fun! Talented professional artists show children their techniques and infectious love of their art through hands-on workshops in embossing, printmaking, painting, Japanese fan-making and more. Rhythm Fusion and Music Together will introduce young participants to a myriad of musical instruments. For our youngest generation it promises hours and hours of fun, and moments of enduring inspiration. 

The Museum of Art & History

The Museum of Art and History is a center of culture where all visitors enjoy high-quality art and history experiences that inspire intellectual growth and social interaction. It is the first place people think of then they want to explore regional history, contemporary art or the intersection of art and history on the Central Coast. The Museum’s mission is to promote a greater understanding of contemporary art and Santa Cruz history through exhibitions, collections and programs that benefit the county residents and visitors.

Artist Communities…

Tannery Arts Center

The Tannery Arts Center is dedicated to providing an affordable, accessible and sustainable home for Santa Cruz County artists and arts, cultural, education and heritage organizations so that all offerings on this historically significant campus may be enjoyed by residents, visitors and the general public.

17th Avenue Studios

17th Avenue Studios opened in 2000 as work space for 10 area artists. Thanks to the vision of owner Ronna Schulkin, some 35 artists who are accomplished painters, drawers, printmakers, potters, wood carvers, glass artists, illustrators, assemblage, mixed media and wax artists rent work space at what has come to be known as “17th.”
    17th Avenue has become a popular stop on the annual Open Studios Art Tour and hosts numerous studio shows throughout the year. In addition, artists share support, critique, friendship, inspiration, and career advice . 17th Avenue Studios is much more than real estate for artists-it is a community.