A Vibrant Tradition: The 39th Annual Emeryville Art Exhibition
Emeryville, a pulsating hub of creativity in the heart of the East Bay, is gearing up for its 39th Annual Art Exhibition, running from October 4 to 26, 2025, at the lively Public Market Emeryville (5955 Shellmound Street). Kicking off with a dazzling Gala Opening Night on Friday, October 3, from 6-9 p.m., this juried showcase transforms the bustling market into a dynamic gallery celebrating the city’s artistic soul. As a cornerstone of Emeryville’s California Cultural District, the exhibition promises a rich tapestry of visual, performative, and literary works that capture the essence of this innovative community.
Since its inception in 1987, born from a collaboration between the Emeryville Artists’ Cooperative, the city’s Redevelopment Agency, and local visionaries, the exhibition has grown into a beloved tradition. Open to artists aged 18 and older who live or work in Emeryville, the show features over 200 works by more than 150 participants, with a striking 30% being first-time exhibitors. This year’s selections, curated by independent curator Kathleen Hanna (her 13th year jurying), alongside guest jurors Vicky Kumpfer (public art consultant) and Kristen Zaremba (Oakland’s Cultural Affairs Coordinator), highlight the diversity and depth of Emeryville’s talent pool. From paintings and sculptures to digital media and mixed forms, the works reflect the city’s unique blend of industrial grit and forward-thinking creativity.
What makes this event stand out? It’s more than a gallery—it’s a celebration of connection and discovery. All pieces are available for purchase, inviting visitors to take home a slice of Emeryville’s spirit. The venue, generously provided for the third year by Oxford Properties Group, is surrounded by artisan eateries and offers ample parking, creating an inviting atmosphere to linger and explore. Expect live performances, literary readings, and interactive elements that weave together the city’s multifaceted arts scene, making every visit a fresh experience.
On Friday, October 10, 2025 a new satellite art gallery, Gallery 4509, located at 4509 Horton Street, will open providing an intimate space for rotating exhibitions year-round. Gallery 4509 kicks off with ‘Beyond the Lamplight‘, a standout feature of this year’s exhibition with the involvement of Pixar Animation Studios, Emeryville’s iconic creative powerhouse. Known for films that push the boundaries of storytelling and imagination, Pixar artists are contributing personal works showcasing their unique talents when not working on their next block-buster animated movie.
Whether you’re a collector hunting for unique finds or simply seeking inspiration amid your weekend stroll, the 39th Annual Emeryville Art Exhibition is a must-see. Visit emeryarts.org for gala tickets (proceeds fuel future arts programming) and updates on the artist lineup, set to drop soon at emeryarts.org/artist-list. In a fast-paced world, this show invites you to pause, reflect, and celebrate creativity. Mark your calendars—October’s artistic spark awaits!
Note: Details sourced from emeryarts.org and the 39th Annual Exhibition press release. Check the official site for the latest.