MISSION STATEMENT: The BAA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enrichment & empowerment of local Kern County artists since 1944. It offers opportunities to learn & share excitement of art & creative process, & to interact with other artists & public. It also provides opportunities for youth & adults to recognize their artistic potential thru workshops & classes. Members are given opportunities & skills necessary to evolve self expression thru exhibit & juried art shows. It raises funds to be distributed as scholarships to elementary, high school, college art students, local art teachers, professional & non-professional adults annually. It also provides space for members to present, display & critique their art.
History: Formed in 1943 by local artists. Articles of Incorporation filed w/ California Secretary of State on 11/13/44. Franchise Tax Board approved nonprofit status on 11/16/44. The BAA had various galleries over the years but the Art Center is now at 1607 19th Street (Downtown Arts District) and participates in First Friday Receptions.
Membership: The BAA is made up of established & developing artists from Kern County: students, individuals, seniors & families and is entirely voluntary.
Location: Art Center hours: Tuesdays thru Thursdays 11 to 5 p.m., First Fridays 11 to 9 p.m., other Fridays 11 to 5 p.m., & Saturdays 11 to 4.
Art Center: The Art Center is open to members & the general public, and offers art supplies, special orders, classes, workshops, programs, & demonstrations. An art library is available to members.
Art Center Exhibits: Wall space to exhibit artwork is available to members. Each month the Art Center has a special exhibit for a featured artist, group or juried show with the reception held on First Fridays.
Satellite Exhibits: Our Satellite Chairperson coordinates with local businesses to provide extra venues for members to display their art. Current locations: Chamber of Commerce, Covenant Coffee Shop, Dagny’s, the Epic Jet Center, Guild House, House of Beauty, Lorene's, Nature's Market, Stars Theatre and Sub Station.