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There’s so much to experience at Bower Center for the Arts in the coming weeks! From hands-on classes to captivating exhibits and live music, we’ve got something for everyone. Here’s what’s on the calendar! |
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Exhibits UP NEXT! |
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The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz |
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Charles M. Schulz left a legacy, one of cultural influence through his beloved Peanuts comic strip and humble service as a veteran of World War II. As the creator of Peanuts, Schulz shaped the comic strip into something honest and enduring. Through unforgettable characters like Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, and Linus, he explored universal human themes. His drawings carried emotional depth that spoke to children and adults alike and the characters he created have transcended generations.
Less publicly known, but equally important, was Schulz’s service during World War II. Drafted into the U.S. Army, he served as the leader of a light machine-gun squad in a company of the 8th Armored Infantry Battalion of the 20th Armored Division. His service reflected the shared sacrifice of millions of Americans who put their lives and plans on hold to serve their country. The experience left a lasting impression on him, so much so that he became the Capital Campaign Chair of the National D-Day Memorial from 1998 until his passing in 2000. Schulz's passion for educating others about the sacrifices made on D-Day led to his staunch support for the Memorial. Sadly, he passed before the Memorial's dedication in 2001.
Schulz served his nation when called, then spent the rest of his life serving the world—offering compassion, laughter, and understanding through his art, his philanthropy, and through his enthusiastic support of the National D-Day Memorial.
In honor of Charles Schulz, the National D-Day Memorial in partnership with Bower Center for the Arts (and curated by the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center Santa Rosa, California), will host an exhibit in tribute to Schulz, his career, and his role in helping establish the nation's monument to D-Day. The exhibit, "The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz" will open on May 7 and run through August 1 at Bower Center for the Arts and will include a replica display of Schulz's studio as it looked in the 1970s through 2000 and in-depth information on Schulz's life and his creation of Peanuts.
GALLERY HOURS:
SPECIAL GALLERY HOURS: Saturday, May 23, 10 AM-5 PM
D-Day Weekend: Saturday, June 6, 11 AM - 5 PM
GALLERY ADMISSION IS ALWAYS FREE. DONATIONS ARE APPRECIATED. |
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Call for Artists |
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EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION CLOSES THIS WEEKEND!
Artists are encouraged to take advantage of early bird registration, which closes on May 2, for the Art in Motion National Juried Exhibition at Bower Center for the Arts.
This all‑media call invites 2‑D and 3‑D works that capture the excitement and expression of movement, with the exhibition on view August 13–September 26, 2026; early bird pricing offers a reduced entry fee before standard rates begin.
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Concerts & Performances |
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This delightful cabaret evening takes us back to the classic singers: Sinatra, Clooney, Wilson, Fitzgerald, and more. Wynn and C.W. will bring back the wonderful songs of The Great American Songbook. Get your tickets before they are sold out! |
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Classes & Workshops! |
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Discover what’s next at Bower Center for the Arts with a fresh lineup of upcoming classes and workshops designed to spark creativity for all ages and experience levels. From hands-on artmaking to skill-building opportunities, there’s something new to explore in mosaics, clay, jewelry making and more!
Visit our classes page to find your next creative adventure.
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Youth Summer Programs! |
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Summer Camp Spotlight: Week 2
Week Two of Summer Camp invites young artists into a world of castles, knights, and dragons with Stage & Stitch! This imaginative, interdisciplinary camp blends performing arts and fiber arts as campers take part in theatrical storytelling while designing and creating their own costumes, banners, and props. Through improvisational theatre, character development, and even stage combat, participants build original heroes and embark together on a shared epic quest.
Throughout the week, campers will also use fabric, texture, and symbolism to tell their stories working collaboratively on a large tapestry that captures their collective adventure, along with individual flags that represent each hero’s strengths and values. The experience culminates in a lively showcase with audience participation. Designed for ages 6–12 and led by instructors Dana Tickle and Dannie Snyder, Stage & Stitch offers both half-day and full-day options, making it a flexible and enriching start to the summer arts journey. Explore all upcoming camps and find the perfect fit for your child ages 6-12 and 13-17.
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Kick off summer with CAB Kids: Summer Explorers, a free, family‑friendly event on Saturday, June 13 from 12–2 PM at Bower Center for the Arts! Featuring a live, interactive performance by award‑winning children’s author and musician Sara Ernst, this joyful program invites kids to explore songs about bugs, bears, and farm life, learn to respect and observe nature, and create fun art projects like bug houses and leaf‑print butterflies all in a welcoming, creative space.
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