December 2025 Collagraph

Director's Corner

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!

As we close out the year, I want to begin with sincere gratitude. The Collagraph exists so our community can stay connected, learn of opportunities, and share experiences, supporting a creative life that is both collective and evolving. You read this newsletter to learn what’s possible here, and I’m honored to help share those possibilities.

Our readers include exhibiting members, patrons, art enthusiasts, cultural bearers, and lifelong learners. Each of you brings care, curiosity, lived experience, and commitment. Together, you contribute to a culture of participation, learning, and shared responsibility that sustains the work we do.

I am deeply proud to be part of the Stockton Art League. Each year, I become more convinced of the organization’s value and the importance of the work we do in our community. What we offer goes beyond exhibitions and programs. We serve as a place of continuity, opportunity, and creative belonging.

Historically, much of our communication has been Stockton-focused, largely due to capacity. Over the past year, our State Local Partner work has allowed the Stockton Art League to expand how we serve and communicate across city lines. This has strengthened our ability to share opportunities countywide and support artists, educators, and cultural workers throughout San Joaquin County.

Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be a big year. We are excited to be planning expanded live performance events at the gallery, welcoming new board members, and bringing Poetry Out Loud to San Joaquin County high school students. We are also preparing to continue our pursuit of State Local Partner designation in June 2026, an important step in building long-term countywide arts infrastructure and advocacy.

As we move into 2026, we are also preparing to celebrate a major milestone, 90 years of the Stockton Art League. Founded in 1936, the organization has taken on many forms over the decades, reflected different leadership approaches, and responded to the evolving needs of artists and the city. Goals have shifted and methods have changed, but throughout every era, the Stockton Art League has remained a witness to creativity in Stockton and a steward of its artistic legacy.

These ninety years were not about perfection, but about showing up consistently, learning through challenges, and growing with change. For ninety years, we have held space for artists to experiment, to exhibit, to learn, and to be seen.

As we approach this anniversary year, I do so with gratitude for those who came before us, excitement for what lies ahead, and a renewed commitment to ensuring that creativity in Stockton and across San Joaquin County continues to be supported, shared, and celebrated.

Thank you for your continued reading, for participating, and for believing in the value of the arts in our community. I wish you a joyful holiday season, a restful close to the year, and a creative, energizing start to 2026.
 

In creativity,
Jessica Fong

To the New Year
by  W.S. Merwin

With what stillness at last
you appear in the valley
your first sunlight reaching down
to touch the tips of a few
high leaves that do not stir
as though they had not noticed
and did not know you at all
then the voice of a dove calls
from far away in itself
to the hush of the morning

so this is the sound of you
here and now whether or not
anyone hears it this is
where we have come with our age
our knowledge such as it is
and our hopes such as they are
invisible before us
untouched and still possible

Next Exhibition

January Reception: Join us on January 10, 4–6 pm, featuring works by Lauren Andree.

Board Updates

We are pleased to welcome new board members Yhoshua Gutierrez, Callie Russell, and Joann Sagaral to the Stockton Art League Board of Directors. Each brings valuable perspective and commitment to supporting the arts and strengthening the organization as we move into the new year and toward our 90th anniversary.

We would also like to thank Vicki Gaia, who is concluding her service as board member and Treasurer after eight years of service. During her tenure, Vicki provided consistent financial oversight and support during periods of growth and transition, and we appreciate the time and care she contributed to the Stockton Art League.

Staff Updates

We are excited to share staff updates as we move into the new year.

Kat Castaneda has transitioned into the role of Gallery Director, moving from their previous position as Gallery Coordinator. Kat’s leadership of gallery programs and exhibitions, along with their ongoing networking and relationship-building with our membership, has been invaluable. We are excited to see the direction they are shaping for the gallery and the continued development of programming in the space.

Zoe Nelson continues in their role as Youth Art Coordinator, supporting youth arts education and programming throughout the year. Zoe’s work helps ensure consistent, accessible opportunities for young people to engage with the arts.

Jessica Fong, Executive Director, continues to focus on organizational leadership and advocacy. This includes advancing arts advocacy efforts, building partnerships with state and regional organizations, supporting countywide initiatives through the State–Local Partner work, and leading grant research and writing to strengthen long-term sustainability.

“It has been a privilege to curate the exhibitions at the Elsie May Goodwin Gallery over the past eight years and to witness the growth of the work shown in this space. I’m excited for what Kat will bring as Gallery Director and for the programs they are preparing to bring forward. Those who already know Kat will recognize the care, thoughtfulness, and commitment they bring to this role. This transition allows me to focus more fully on the broader vision and partnerships ahead for the Stockton Art League.”
 

To stay connected with exhibitions, programs, and important updates, follow the Stockton Art League on Instagram at @thestocktonartleague.
 To stay connected with youth classes, programs, and important events, follow the Youth Art Program on Instagram at @theyouthartprogram.

Call for Artists: Garden Centennial Exhibition

Stockton Garden Club and Stockton Art League invite artists to participate in a special open call exhibition celebrating the Stockton Garden Club’s 100th Anniversary. This exhibition will be presented as the featured exhibition of the month for February 2026 at the Elsie May Goodwin Gallery.

Artists are invited to submit work inspired by gardens, nature, flora, fauna, and plant life, interpreted through any medium. The entry fee is $10, and the exhibition is open to all artists. Up to 60 artworks will be accepted as registrations are received, until the exhibition is full or Feb 1, 2026. While acceptance is not juried, small prizes will be selected by a juror.

All media are welcome. Artwork must not exceed 12” x 12”.

Please see the registration link for full details. For additional questions, contact Kat at [email protected].

Goodwin Gallery Hours

Next Pickup
Membership Show
January 2 12-4pm
January 3 12-4pm

Membership Renewal Portal

The Stockton Art League and Goodwin Gallery: A Community Legacy for 2025

2025 Membership Update

As we begin 2025, 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.

Membership Renewal Announcement

We are launching a new membership tracking program! Members will receive renewal announcements 60 days before their membership expires. Some 2024 memberships are listed but are not set to renew within the next 60 days. If you have any questions about your membership status, feel free to reach out.

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.

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.

For questions or suggestions, please contact us 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 by November 15
📝 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 by the California Arts Council to strengthen arts ecosystems across every county and build sustainable support for artists and cultural organizations.

MISSION:

1. To Promote and Support ALL artists, art organizations, and cultural bearers in San Joaquin County.
2. Create Grants to artists, arts organizations and cultural bearers in San Joaquin County.
3. To host Poetry Out Loud sponsored by the California Arts Council.

2024 SAN JOAQUIN COMMUNITY SURVEY ON ARTS, CULTURE, AND CREATIVITY

Please provide input on forming a Local Arts Agency to represent San Joaquin County (SJC) in partnership with the California Arts Council, a state agency, arts.ca.gov.
 

With support from the California Arts Council, Amador County Arts Council (Amador Arts) has been charged to mentor the creative community of San Joaquin County (SJC) in the development and establishment of a county arts council to participate in the State-Local Partner grant https://arts.ca.gov/grant_program/state-local-partners/. This program directs state funds to each county and provides for local arts and cultural resources, the national Poetry Out Loud recitation competition for high school students, local arts and cultural grants, and partnerships within the network of State-Local Partners.

San Joaquin County-based Creatives, Artists, Arts organizations, Arts students, Teaching Artists, Cultural Practitioners, Cultural Centers, and arts and culture lovers of all disciplines and ages are invited to participate in this public survey. Your feedback is essential to planning an arts council that will best serve the entire community of SJC and represent the SJC creative economy and cultural landscape at the state level.

What Is Poetry Out Loud?

Poetry Out Loud is a national arts education program that encourages high school students to engage deeply with poetry through memorization, performance, and competition. The program helps students develop public speaking skills, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for literary art.

Founded by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation, and implemented in partnership with state and local arts agencies, Poetry Out Loud has reached millions of students across the United States since its inception. 2026 marks the program’s 21st year.

How It Works:

• Students choose poems from an approved anthology

• They memorize and recite their selections before an audience and panel of judges

• Competitions progress from the classroom to school, county, state, and national levels

• Winners at each level can earn scholarships and cash prizes

Looking Ahead in San Joaquin County:

We are excited to share that San Joaquin County is working toward participating in Poetry Out Loud in 2026, with a county-wide competition hosted by Stockton Art League in collaboration with the San Joaquin County Office of Education. This partnership will help provide a new platform for youth voices and elevate the role of poetry in education throughout the region.

Who Can Participate:

• High school students in grades 9–12

• Schools, teachers, and educational organizations interested in poetry and performance arts

• Community partners and arts educators who want to help facilitate local competitions

To learn more about the national program and get inspired, visit: www.poetryoutloud.org

Awareness of Policy Changes with the National Endowment for the Arts

Protecting the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)

The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) is a vital federal agency that supports arts programs across the United States, including in every congressional district. It funds a wide range of initiatives, from arts education and community development to cultural preservation and innovation. The NEA's investments not only enrich our cultural landscape but also contribute significantly to local economies and job creation.​

Recently, the NEA has faced challenges, including proposed budget cuts and policy shifts that threaten its ability to support diverse and inclusive arts programming. In response, Americans for the Arts has launched the "Protect the NEA" campaign, urging citizens to advocate for sustained federal funding for the arts. The campaign emphasizes the importance of the NEA in fostering creativity, supporting artists, and ensuring that the arts remain accessible to all Americans.​Americans for the Arts

To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit Protect the NEA.

Call For Support

Upcoming Workshops

Do you want to host your own event? 

Youth Art Program

Art Opportunities

On View
- Local and Regional Works

Our Neighbors are Busy!

Sakura Hibachi Catering Restaurant

Wednesdays at Whirlows /
TAPS Barrel House

1926 Pacific Ave

BEER * MUSIC * BINGO

DeYoung Museum, San Francisco

SFMOMA, San Francisco

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