Humboldt’s art scene entices you to collect or create with equal enthusiasm. You can easily become a patron of the arts at Old Town Art Gallery (417 Second St. Suite 102, Eureka; (707) 445-2315). This feast for the eyes is Humboldt’s oldest cooperative gallery, having celebrated 50 years since its doors first opened in 1974. Fifteen talented artists present works in all media: ceramics, jewelry, metalwork, painting, photography and woodworking. The rich wood burls worked by artist Mike Pixley contrast with stunning photos of the beautiful coastal area where we get to live. The wide range means that there is something for everyone. Did you see those ultra-cool multicolored paintings by Reilan Sandoval or the fluid acrylics by Yuliya Kinnunen? Don’t miss the whimsical animal-inspired ceramics of Larissa Stevenson. The gallery also hosts a featured artist in its two floors of exhibit space.
Did you catch the creative bug this season? Maker’s Space (1450 Hiller Road, McKinleyville; (707) 382-2427) is here to get your pour on as you paint premade pottery pieces. Entice that busy friend with a date to paint pottery as you sip some chardonnay. If they scoff at wine, tempt them with Six Rivers Brewery or Humboldt Cider Co. Maker’s Space takes care of processing your creation, so you can pick up your masterpiece after it’s been fired (melting and fusing the glaze in extremely high temperatures). The chaos of life can be channeled into learning to create a mosaic light switch or another of the crafts on offer. Maker’s Space can also help you throw the coolest arty party, be it pottery, mosaics or your craft of choice. Check Maker’s Space social media for upcoming events or take advantage of their drop-in hours.
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Perhaps the bug that bit gave you a serious need to knead clay. Lotus Studio Pottery (630 Second St., Eureka; (707) 616-6504) can provide pottery lessons (class and individual) to get you going. It doesn’t matter if you got your inspiration from watching Ghost or binging The Great Pottery Throwdown, you have ideas! And that is all you need as clay, glazes, tools and an apron are waiting for you to start hand building, sculpting or wheel throwing. You can also paint premade pieces if the brush is your tool of choice. If you have the ideas but not the time, place a custom order. Lotus also provides bisque glazing, and kiln and studio time for those of you already in the know. It’s easy to start your creative journey.
This article appears in Humboldt Insider Winter 2026.