State of the Art Presence – October 2026

OUR POPULAR ANNUAL October show, “Imaginarium,” returns with a new theme to bring out the ghouls and goblins of the season. In addition, we’re offering classes and a local author this month.

Imaginarium: “A Carnival of Crows”—A caravan of winged merriment is coming to Jacksonville. We all know that crows get a bad rap for being raucous thieves who travel in murders, but to us fellow tricksters they deserve a celebration of their clever, carny personalities. The theme of this year’s open call Imaginarium show focuses on crows, ravens, owls, festive carnival or spooky, and art with vintage Halloween vibes. Meet many of the featured artists during our first Saturday Opening Reception. Opening Reception: Saturday, October 3, 1-4pm. Exhibition Dates: September 30-November 1.

Messy Hands: “Fall Leaves in Watercolor” with Lauren Card, Saturday, October 10, 1:30-3pm—Celebrate the beauty of autumn by creating a vibrant watercolor painting from a bird’s-eye perspective! In this fun and relaxed class, led by Member Artist Lauren Card, you’ll learn the basics of watercolor while painting a colorful arrangement of fall leaves and berries. All supplies are included. Beginners are warmly welcome! Fee: $5. Registration required: https://art-presence.org/upcoming-classes/.

Third Saturdays: “Dia de los Muertes Skull Painting” with Carol Branan, Saturday, October 17, 1-3pm—Sugar skulls, or calaveras de azúcar, are vibrant, decorated skull shapes made from molded sugar. Used during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) a traditional Mexican holiday on November 1st and 2nd. All materials are provided. Beginners welcome. All ages. Children under 12 accompanied by an adult. Reserve your $20 spot today! Registration required: https://art-presence.org/upcoming-classes/.

Featured Author: “Piecing the Past” by Sue Waldron—A unique collection of Southern Oregon history, genealogy, and quilt making is brought to life in “Piecing the Past,” a new book featuring twenty-one historic and commemorative quilts preserved by the Rogue Valley Genealogical Society (RVGS) in Medford. Many quilts in the collection were made by the Jacksonville Museum Quilters, a group that was a big part of the quilting community in Jacksonville. Author Sue Waldron will be present at the October 3 Opening Reception for discussion and signings.

Thanks to all who supported the Y’art Sale—Our annual fundraising event, the Y’art Sale was a huge success! Thank you to everyone who came and donated in a variety of ways, and thanks to all of the volunteers who made it such a successful event.

Featured image: ”Beach Side Rascal” by Char Wirfs