How can I help build community through the arts?

That's me with a work called "Thoughtless Balloon" by Steve Briscoe. Steve shows in galleries in Oakland and Sacramento. His work is part of the collections at the Crocker, the Berkeley Art Museum and the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.  Steve has exhibited at the Pence on several occasions, including a solo show in 2022. He's a great example of how the Pence is integrated in the regional art world as a venue for accomplished artists. We support these artists by covering the cost of installations. The artists support our mission by filling the gallery with thought-provoking art. $20,000 dollars of our $50,000 Big Day of Giving goal will go to exhibition expenses.

But the Pence is more than just an exhibition space. 

We also offer low-cost programming for families and students. Art in Action engages kids and their families in art projects that are fun and collaborative. ArtSmart is a program for elementary schools students where they can get hands-on experiences with art in the gallery. Last year we were not able to keep up with all of the demand for these programs. $20,000 of your donations will go to educational programming. We need your help to serve more of our community. 

And to keep these important community-based activities happening, we also have to make safety improvements to our building. $10,000 of  our total Big Day of Giving goal will go to upgrading our indoor/outdoor lighting and installing security cameras. We need all of our visitors and staff to feel safe in and around the building. 

Thank you for your support!

Ken Kirsch

Board Member