June 2026 Collagraph

Artist of the Month

Artist of the Month: Callie Russell

June 4–27, 2026

The Stockton Art League is pleased to present June Artist of the Month, Callie Russell, in the Elsie May Goodwin Gallery.

Callie's artwork reflects a lifelong dedication to drawing and observation. Through portraiture and figurative painting, she explores expression, identity, and the people who inspire her.

Bio:

Callie started sketching at a young age, finding joy in nothing more than a pencil and scratch paper. As a teenager, she took an art class and a few life drawing classes that changed her life the year she planned on going to college for a music major. Now she is newly settled in Stockton and feels grateful to have found the Stockton Art League and to continue creating in the second half of her life.

Join us for the Artist Reception on Saturday, June 13, from 4:00–6:00 PM. Meet the artist, enjoy refreshments, and celebrate the opening of the exhibition with fellow community members.

Exhibition Dates: June 4–27, 2026
Artist Reception: Saturday, June 13, 4:00–6:00 PM

Location: Elsie May Goodwin Gallery
1902 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95204

Join us for an evening of art and conversation as we celebrate Callie’s creative journey.

Free and open to the public.

Next Exhibition

July Reception: Join us on July 11, 4–6 PM, featuring works by Geneva Mello 

Director's Corner

Seasonal Adjustments

As summer approaches, the environment around us begins to change. The light lasts longer into the evening, temperatures rise, and the colors of the landscape slowly shift. For artists, these changes often bring adjustments to our practice.

Sometimes that means moving work outdoors earlier in the morning before the heat arrives. Sometimes it means switching materials entirely. Clay dries faster, paint behaves differently, glazes respond to seasonal humidity, and even our willingness to sit in a studio all afternoon can change. What worked in January may no longer work in June.

Nature rarely asks permission before changing course. Trees shed leaves. Gardens bloom and fade. The blue in the sky becomes a little lighter as summer settles in, while the sunsets become more intense, filling the horizon with colors that seem impossible to recreate. Creativity often follows a similar pattern. We adapt to what is in front of us rather than forcing conditions that no longer exist.

This season has me thinking less about starting over and more about tending to what is already here. Over the past few months we've offered workshops focused on sewing, mending, and repair. There is something meaningful about learning to extend the life of an object rather than replacing it. A visible repair tells a story. It acknowledges wear, change, and continued use.

The same can be true of creative practice. Sometimes growth comes from learning a new skill. Sometimes it comes from revisiting unfinished work, repairing what needs attention, or finding a new purpose for something that has been sitting quietly in the corner of the studio.

This spring has also been a reminder of what happens when creative work leaves the studio and enters the community. We recently hosted a successful Spring Art Market featuring the work of vending artists throughout the gallery. We also partnered on the second annual Miracle Mile Art + Lit Walk, which brought more than 60 artists to the sidewalks for an evening of visual art, authors, poetry, music, and creative exchange. It was encouraging to see so many people gathering around the arts and supporting local creativity.

During May, we were also excited to feature the intricate drawings, prints, and ceramic works of Zoe Nelson as our Artist of the Month. Their exhibition invited visitors to slow down and spend time with carefully crafted forms and details that revealed themselves through closer observation.

This month, Kat Castaneda will be leading a workshop on preparing and hanging artwork. Framing, wiring, and presentation are often some of the final steps before work leaves the studio and enters a new space. There is a certain satisfaction in reaching that stage, where a piece is ready to meet an audience and begin a new chapter of its life. We are also looking forward to Callie Russell's reception on June 13 and the opportunity to spend time with her figurative works, which reflect a lifelong dedication to drawing and observation.

As the season changes, I hope you find time to make, repair, finish, and perhaps even share something that has been waiting for the right moment.

In creativity,
Jessica Fong
Executive Director

Stockton Art League
 

“Attention is vitality. It connects you with others. It makes you eager. Stay eager.” ― Susan Sontag

Stockton Art League Opportunities

San Joaquin County is home to so many incredible arts programs and opportunities. Below you’ll find current events and offerings from the Stockton Art League.

To explore even more local and regional opportunities, be sure to scroll all the way to the end of the newsletter.

63rd Annual National Juried Exhibition at the Haggin Museum

We’re excited to announce the upcoming 63rd Annual National Juried Exhibition at the Haggin Museum, one of the Stockton Art League’s longest-running and most anticipated exhibitions.

This national call invites artists from across the country to submit work for consideration in a juried exhibition held in partnership with the Haggin Museum.

Best in Show: $1,000 Ruby Zahn White Award
Additional awards will be presented.

Submission Deadline:
Sunday, July 19, 2026 at 10:59 PM PST

Be part of this longstanding exhibition and share your work with a wider audience.

Art Hanging Workshop with Kat Castaneda

Saturday, June 20 | 12:30–2:00 PM

Join Kat Castaneda, Gallery Director at the Stockton Art League, for a hands-on workshop focused on the fundamentals of preparing and hanging artwork for display.

Whether you're exhibiting for the first time or looking to improve your presentation skills, this workshop will cover common hanging hardware, wire installation, D-rings, sawtooth hangers, spacing considerations, and gallery-ready presentation techniques. Participants will have the opportunity to practice with materials and receive guidance on preparing their own work for exhibitions, galleries, community spaces, or home display.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own canvas, framed, or matted artwork to practice on during the workshop.

Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026
Time: 12:30–2:00 PM
Location: Elsie May Goodwin Gallery
1902 Pacific Avenue, Stockton

Cost: $5 supply fee
Includes: Access to workshop materials and hanging hardware for practice

Learn the basics of hanging your own artwork in a supportive, hands-on environment and leave with practical skills you can use for future exhibitions and displays.

Youth Art Program

Youth Art Program: Father's Day Printmaking Cards

Saturday, June 13 | 12:30–2:30 PM

Create a handmade Father's Day card using simple printmaking techniques at the Stockton Art League.

Participants will design and print their own cards featuring imagery inspired by fathers, mentors, grandfathers, and important figures in their lives. Materials and instruction are provided.

Cost: $5 supplies fee
Includes: 1 stamp block and 3 card sets

This drop-in activity is a fun introduction to printmaking and a creative way to celebrate Father's Day through art.

While the sun comes out to brighten our day, join us for Cyano Saturdays and explore the magic of creating prints using sunlight and natural materials.

Participants will create unique prints using local foliage while learning a historic photographic process.

This relaxed, 20–30 minute activity is perfect for all ages and experience levels—whether you’re trying it for the first time or returning to experiment further. All materials are provided, and participants can create multiple prints to take home.

Drop in on select Saturdays throughout the season and enjoy a creative, accessible way to engage with art, light, and nature at the Goodwin Gallery.

Goodwin Gallery Hours

Next Drop-off / Pickup
Membership Show
June 25 12-4pm
June 26 12-4pm
June 27 12-4pm
 

Thursday Mornings Open Studio

Join us again for Open Studio at the Goodwin Gallery every Thursday from 10 AM–12 PM. This informal drop-in session is a space to meet, make, and connect with fellow artists and community members.

Bring your own project and work alongside others in a relaxed, supportive environment. All media are welcome; however, we ask that participants use low-odor materials only to ensure a comfortable shared workspace. Whether you’re continuing a piece, experimenting with new ideas, or simply seeking creative company, Open Studio offers time and space to create. 

Suggested donation: $2
Drop in—no registration required.

For questions, email [email protected]

Expression Session Dates | Open Art Studio Series

Join us at the Goodwin Gallery for Expression Sessions, a monthly open art studio designed for creative exploration, connection, and hands-on making. Whether you participate in the featured activity or bring your own project, these sessions offer a welcoming space to create alongside others in community.

Time: 12–2 PM
Location: Goodwin Gallery, 1902 Pacific Ave, Stockton, CA 95204
Donations welcome.

2026 Dates & Themes:
• March 15 – Sashiko Mending (Complete)
• May 17 – Collage / Zines (Complete)
• June 21 – Expression Session Open Studio
• July 19 – Embroidery Activity
• August 16 – Expression Session Open Studio
• September 20 – Collage / Zines
• October 18 – Day of the Dead / or alternative activity

Come connect, create, and share space with fellow artists and community members. Our activity or yours—everyone is welcome.

For more information, email [email protected]

California Arts Council Grants Now Open

Artist Opportunity: California Arts Council Individual Artists Fellowship

Applications Due June 12, 2026

The California Arts Council's Individual Artists Fellowship (IAF) program is now accepting applications from artists and culture bearers living and working in San Joaquin County and throughout the Central Valley and Eastern Sierra region. The program is administered regionally by the Kern Dance Alliance (KDA).

The fellowship celebrates artistic excellence across all disciplines and traditions while providing unrestricted funding to support creative practice. Artists may apply in one of three fellowship categories:

• Emerging Artist Fellow: $5,000

• Established Artist Fellow: $10,000

• Legacy Artist Fellow: $50,000

Eligible applicants must:

• Be 18 years of age or older

• Be a California-based artist or culture bearer

• Demonstrate at least two consecutive years of California residency

• Live, work, and/or serve within the 14-county Central Valley and Eastern Sierra service region, which includes San Joaquin County

• Apply as an individual artist (groups and collectives are not eligible)

Applications are reviewed by peer panels and evaluated on artistic excellence, commitment to creative practice, and contributions to California's cultural landscape.

The fellowship period runs from August 1, 2026 through August 1, 2027. Free grant-writing and technical assistance resources are available to support applicants.

Deadline: June 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM

Learn more and apply at:
KDA Individual Artists Fellowship Program

Need Help with Grants?

The Stockton Art League is available as a local resource for artists, organizations, and community members navigating grant opportunities.

As part of our State Local Partner mentorship, we are building capacity to support San Joaquin County through shared information, guidance, and connections. While we are not a grantmaker, we can help point you to resources, clarify guidelines, and offer general insight into the application process.

We are also available to support grant writing on a percentage basis for funded proposals. If you have questions about fiscal sponsorship, eligibility, or how to structure an application, we are happy to help guide those conversations.

If you are considering applying for funding and are not sure where to begin, feel free to reach out.

Contact Jessica at gallery@stocktonartleague.org

We are getting fantastic responses so far!

Membership Renewal Portal

The Stockton Art League and Goodwin Gallery: A Community Legacy

2026 Membership Update

As we begin 2026, the Stockton Art League and Goodwin Gallery remain dedicated to enriching lives and strengthening our community through the arts. More than just a space to showcase creativity, the gallery serves as a cultural hub where artists and art enthusiasts connect, inspire, and grow together.

For individuals, the gallery provides opportunities for personal expression, professional development, and meaningful engagement with the arts. As a community, the presence of the Stockton Art League and Goodwin Gallery ensures access to diverse exhibitions, educational programs, and events that celebrate our shared history and creativity.

Our presence in Stockton is a testament to the city's commitment to fostering artistic expression and cultural vitality. Together, we look forward to continuing to create a place where art thrives and brings people together.

Current Membership

As our membership continues to grow, we are streamlining renewals into quarterly cycles to better support our community and strengthen our administrative capacity. Members who typically renew in January, February, or March will receive a reminder to renew by March 31. Future renewals will occur at the end of each calendar quarter.

We also extend our sincere thanks to those who have already renewed early. Your continued support helps sustain exhibitions, youth programs, and arts advocacy throughout San Joaquin County.

2025 Membership

Major Overhaul on our Website

Website Updates in Progress

We’re excited to share that the Stockton Art League is currently undergoing a major website overhaul to make it easier to navigate and find information about our programs, artists, and events.

Our updates include:

• New navigation buttons to our major programs and activities

• Archived Collagraph newsletters now being backlogged for online access

• Testing of the new San Joaquin Artist Directory

• A new resource page for Poetry Out Loud, the high school poetry competition

Our next goal is to reach 50 artists on the directory!
If you experience any issues uploading images, please complete your entry without images and email them separately to [email protected].

Looking ahead, we’re developing an active events page that will connect the community to arts organizations and individual artists throughout San Joaquin County.

We’d love your input!
If you have feedback, suggestions, or ideas for additional information or features you’d like to see on the website, please email us at [email protected].

Visit the site at stocktonartleague.org to explore our progress and stay tuned for new features coming soon.

June
• June 21 | 12–2 PM – Expression Session: Open Studio
• June 27 – Cyano Saturdays (1:30–3:30 PM)
• June 30 – Quarter 2 Membership Renewal Deadline

July
•July Saturdays - Youth Art Program Sessions 
•July 19 | 12–2 PM – Expression Session: Embroidery Activity
•July 19 10:59PM PST – Haggin Museum Juried Show Deadline

August
• August 16 | 12–2 PM – Expression Session: Open Studio
• August 29 – Cyano Saturdays (1:30–3:30 PM)

September
• September 20 | 12–2 PM – Expression Session: Collage / Zines
• September 26 – Cyano Saturdays (1:30–3:30 PM)
• September 30 – Quarter 3 Membership Renewal Deadline
• 63rd Annual Juried Exhibition at the Haggin Museum (September–October)

October
• October 18 | 12–2 PM – Expression Session: Day of the Dead
• Quarter 4 Membership Renewal Cycle (December 31 deadline)

San Joaquin Artist Directory

Help Us Build the San Joaquin Artist Directory

Celebrate Local Creatives. Document Our Cultural History.

The Stockton Art League invites community members to help grow and enrich our Artist Directory, a living archive dedicated to recognizing the broad and diverse impact of artists in San Joaquin County.

This effort is not limited to Stockton Art League members. We welcome submissions from and about all artists in the region, regardless of affiliation. This includes artists working in visual arts, music, literature, performance, film, design, dance, and beyond.

Why it matters:
This project serves as a recorded history of artistic impact in our region. By contributing, you help preserve the stories, talents, and cultural contributions that shape the creative landscape of our communities.

How to Participate:

• Submit your own profile as an artist

• Nominate or submit information about past or current artists you admire

• Upload a bio, image, and contact info—updates can be made at any time

Start here: stocktonartleague.org/artist-directory

Help us honor the artists who inspire us, and make sure their work—and their story—is part of San Joaquin County’s creative legacy.

How to Participate:

• Submit your own profile as an artist

• Nominate or input information about past or current artists you admire

• Upload a bio, image, and contact info—updates can be made at any time

Start here: stocktonartleague.org/artist-directory

Together, we can celebrate and preserve the incredible creativity of San Joaquin County. Your voice—and your story—belong in the record.

If you have an issue uploading images, please contact Jessica at [email protected].

Thank you for being part of our creative community.

—The Stockton Art League Team

San Joaquin County

Join the San Joaquin Arts Advisory Committee!

We’re seeking 8–12 volunteer community members to represent the five districts of San Joaquin County and help guide the growth of arts access and equity across our region.

This advisory group will support the Stockton Art League in its role as a State-Local Partner (SLP) mentee, a program of the California Arts Council. As a mentee organization, we are working to strengthen the county’s arts network, gather community input, and build a foundation for future countywide arts leadership.

Committee members will share local perspectives, identify arts needs, and collaborate on ways to connect artists, organizations, and communities through inclusive, creative opportunities.

🗓 Apply Now
📝 Applications will be reviewed to ensure balanced representation across the five districts. Selected members will be contacted following review.

Strengthening the Arts Through Collaboration

The Stockton Art League (SAL) has long been dedicated to enriching the arts in our community. We are excited to share recent developments that mark a significant step forward in regional arts advocacy and infrastructure building.

As part of California’s State-Local Partner (SLP) initiative, the Stockton Art League is currently serving as a mentee to Amador Arts, with the goal of becoming the official State and Local Partner for San Joaquin County. This mentorship is part of a statewide effort led by the California Arts Council to strengthen arts ecosystems across every county and build sustainable support for artists and cultural organizations.

On April 19, 2026, SAL participated in the State-Local Partner Convening with the Coalition of County Arts Agencies, joining representatives from across California to collaborate on shared priorities and strategies. Discussions focused on key areas including arts education advocacy, the creative economy, data collection, equitable grantmaking, fundraising, infrastructure, and the role of emerging tools like AI in the arts .

This convening reinforced the importance of cross-county collaboration and highlighted the role of State-Local Partners as connectors between local communities and statewide resources. Through this growing network, SAL continues to build relationships, gather data, and align its work to better serve artists and organizations throughout San Joaquin County.

The Stockton Art League will be applying for the 2026-2028 State-Local Partner grant through the California Arts Council with the support of the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors, a key step toward formal designation as the county’s official arts agency.

These efforts are part of a larger statewide framework designed to support cultural development through funding, technical assistance, and coordinated leadership between counties and the state. As we move forward, we remain committed to strengthening regional partnerships, expanding access, and advocating for a more connected and sustainable arts ecosystem.

Building a Central Valley Network

As a direct result of this convening, we were able to connect with neighboring State-Local Partner representatives across the Central Valley. These conversations have already led to plans for more regular meetings between counties to strengthen coordination, share resources, and support regional advocacy efforts.

Central Valley Table
Left to Right: Dominique Johnson (Stanislaus), Amanda Stone (Kings), Colton Dennis (Merced), Michael Kreps (Tulare), Jessica Fong (San Joaquin), Andrea Mele (Fresno), Merry Miller-Gass (Tulare). Nicole Hoke (Madera) not pictured.

These growing regional relationships are an important step toward building a more unified and collaborative arts infrastructure across the Central Valley.

These efforts are part of a larger statewide framework designed to support cultural development through funding, technical assistance, and coordinated leadership between counties and the state. As we move forward, we remain committed to strengthening regional partnerships, expanding access, and advocating for a more connected and sustainable arts ecosystem.

Call For Support

Art Opportunities

Summer Drawing Camp with Deanna Hunt

June 23–July 10, 2026

For nearly two decades, Summer Drawing Camp has brought artists, lifelong learners, and curious observers together for an immersive creative experience centered on drawing, discovery, and community.

Led by artist and educator Deanna Hunt, this beloved annual program began in 2008 as part of the OLLI Art Program. What started as a three-week drawing workshop quickly became something more—a creative community built through observation, experimentation, conversation, and shared artistic practice. Participants often return year after year, drawn by the opportunity to deepen their skills while connecting with others through the act of making.

Throughout twelve sessions, participants will explore drawing techniques, materials, art history, and art theory while developing original works. The course welcomes a range of experience levels and encourages curiosity, risk-taking, and personal growth through sustained creative practice.

This year's theme is Figure-Ground, offering participants an opportunity to investigate relationships between subject, space, perception, and composition through a variety of engaging projects.

As Deanna writes, "Drawing is both a spiritual and professional practice that connects me to the greater living world. Over the years, drawing has become a way of seeing as much as making."

Dates: June 23–26, June 30, July 1–3, July 7–10
Days: Tuesday–Friday
Time: 9:30 AM–12:00 PM
Cost: $350

Twelve sessions include instruction, studio work, discussion, a final critique, and luncheon.

Registration Deadline: June 15, 2026

To reserve your place, contact Deanna Hunt:

503-720-3556
deannahunt.com

Location:
Stepping Stone Place
1221 Monaco Court
Stockton, CA 95207

"Art transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary." — Ellen Dissanayake

On View
- Local and Regional Works

Stockton Arts Commission

Stockton Art Night: Celebrating Culture

Wednesday, June 10, 2026 | 4:00–7:00 PM

Join the Stockton Arts Commission for the next Stockton Art Night, an evening celebrating the rich diversity of cultures, artistic traditions, and creative voices that make up our community.

Held quarterly throughout the year, Stockton Art Nights showcase local artists, performers, writers, makers, and cultural practitioners across a wide range of disciplines. This special June event highlights the theme Culture, featuring visual arts, performing arts, literary arts, storytelling, traditional arts, body art, digital arts, and more.

Artists and community members are invited to come together to share, learn, and celebrate the many traditions and creative practices that contribute to Stockton's cultural landscape.

Date: Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Time: 4:00–7:00 PM
Location: Stockton Civic Auditorium
525 N. Center Street, Stockton, CA

Calling All Artists

The Stockton Arts Commission is currently accepting participants for this event. Artists interested in display space or performance opportunities should contact:

Thomas Freeman
[email protected]

Seeking Chalk Artists

The event is also seeking up to 12 chalk artists to participate in a community chalk art experience.

For more information, contact:

[email protected]

Whether you're an artist, performer, or community member, Stockton Art Night offers an opportunity to experience the creativity, culture, and connections that make Stockton unique.

Opportunity for Young Creatives: Become a Youth Arts Commissioner

The Stockton Arts Commission is seeking young creative leaders who are passionate about arts, culture, and community engagement to serve as Youth Arts Commissioners.

This opportunity allows youth to help shape the future of arts and culture in Stockton while gaining valuable leadership experience, building professional connections, and advocating for creative opportunities throughout the community. Youth Commissioners work alongside community leaders, artists, and civic representatives to provide insight on public art, youth engagement, and cultural initiatives.

Benefits of serving include:

• Community Impact

• Leadership Development

• Networking Opportunities

• Creative Advocacy

This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in the arts, public service, nonprofit work, education, community organizing, or creative careers. Participants will gain firsthand experience in civic engagement while helping ensure that youth voices are represented in conversations about the future of Stockton's cultural landscape.

Application Deadline: June 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM

For more information and application details, visit the City of Stockton Arts Commission or scan the QR code in the announcement.

Hatch Workshop

Tuleburg Press

Huddle, Stockton CA

Unbound School

Unbound Literacy & Leadership Summer Program

June 8 – July 3, 2026

Looking for a meaningful and engaging summer opportunity for students? The Unbound Literacy & Leadership Summer Program offers four weeks of learning, exploration, and growth designed to strengthen academic skills while building confidence and leadership.

Participants will engage in English Language Arts, Math Foundations, enrichment activities, and hands-on learning experiences that encourage curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking. A highlight of the program is Fieldwork Fridays, where students have opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences through educational outings and community-based exploration.

Designed to support academic success while making summer learning fun and engaging, this program provides a structured environment where students can continue developing skills, building relationships, and discovering new interests.

Dates: June 8 – July 3, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Location:
444 N. American Street
Stockton, CA 95202

Space is limited.

Registration & Information:
(209) 800-6434
www.unboundstockton.org

Tracy Grand Theatre

City of Manteca

Our Neighbors are Busy!

Sakura Hibachi Catering Restaurant

Wednesdays at Whirlows /
TAPS Barrel House

1926 Pacific Ave

BEER * MUSIC * BINGO

Goodwin Gallery Hours

Open Studio Days at the Gallery

Resources

Free Days at the Art Museums

THIRD SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH 

Legion of Honor - San Francisco, CA
General admission is free the first Tuesday of every month. (Admission is partnered with deYoung Art Museum - See both in the same day) 

deYoung Art Museum - San Francisco, CA
General admission is free the first Tuesday of every month. (Admission is partnered with Legion of Honor - See both in the same day) 

Asian Art Museum - San Francisco, CA
Free First Sundays

Side Street Projects

FREE SKILLSHARES WITH SIDE STREET PROJECTS

The “FREE Skillshares with Side Street Projects” series occurs every second Saturday of the month at our organization's headquarters. It is open to all ages, and skill levels. Each session is led by a community-based Teaching Artist who guides participants in learning hard and soft art skills. 

Teaching Artists are asked to create a “toolkit” for participants and for those who could not attend the event to use at home as a DIY (Do-it-yourself) or DIT (Do-it-together) resource. These toolkits are generally documents, videos, zines, or podcasts.   

Our goal is to offer free learning opportunities that empower the community to expand their creative endeavors. We think it is important we provide accessible art to a range of experiences and learning capacities. 

Kanopy

Art Collections - Online