FOOTHILLS ART ASSOCIATION
Community For Local Artists
Welcome to Foothills Art Association in downtown La Mesa, California, a hub of creativity and community for over 70 years. Our gallery showcases local artists’ diverse talents featured in monthly members and juried art shows. One of the highlights of the year is the annual Wildlife in Art exhibition which is open to members and nonmembers. Additionally, we spotlight a featured artist each month.
Join us for monthly members’ meetings with featuring a lecture/demo by a skilled artist, many of whom offer a follow-up workshop for hands-on learning. Whether you are an artist seeking inspiration or an art lover looking to connect, Foothills Art Association invites you to discover, create, and engage in the transformative power of art. Please see our About Us page for information on joining us.
Our Gallery is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday each week from 11 am to 4 pm.
Exhibitions & Meetings
Foothills is proud to present the “Octo Show” in August. This special exhibit proudly showcases our members who have accumulated 80 or more years of art experience. Always a crowd pleaser to see, only octogenarians and older may exhibit in August. The “Octo Show” reception will be Saturday, August 17th, from noon to 2 pm. Click here to enter the Octo Show or bring your artwork to the gallery August 1st from 11 am to 2 pm.
Foothills Friday Reception
Plan to attend our Foothills Friday open house August 9th from 4-7 pm. Enjoy the live music, delicious snacks and the always amazing Octo Show.
Current Exhibit
The delightful July show features artists’ depictions of the things in life that make them happy, from smiles to pets to scenic vistas. Click here to view a sample of the show online. Also on the walls is member Constance Grace’s show of original woodcuts and prints.
Special Events
Foothills Fridays August 9th During the La Mesa Farmer’s Market
The Art Gallery will welcome visitors 4-7 pm on August 9th coinciding with the La Mesa Farmer’s Market. Stroll to the gallery or park in our large lot to enjoy refreshments, music and the finest local art.
Members Galleries
Each artist’s online gallery offers a unique perspective and artistic vision. It is invites you to immerse yourself in the wonderful world of art created by our community of passionate artists.
Members' Special Interest Groups
Special interest groups are social gatherings which do not offer formal instruction. Bring your ongoing art project and enjoy creating art in a supportive community of fellow artists. There is a $3 per person gallery fee collected at each meeting. For further information please call the gallery at (619) 464-7167
Wordell Critique Group
Second Monday of the month 10:00-12:00
Our group encourages growth and development, providing valuable insights and encouragement in a suipportive environment to artists at all stages of their creative journey. In addition to the collaborative critique sessions, participants have the option to take on monthly challenges designed to inspire creativity and expand artistic horizons. Attendance is open to all members.
San Diego Drawing Guild Wednesdays 10:00-2:00 Weekly
The San Diego Drawing Guild is dedicated to exploring the rich possibilities of colored pencil, pastel and graphite artistry. From beginners to experienced artists, everyone is welcome to join our supportive environment where creativity flourishes and friendships form around a shared love for drawing.
Oil & Acrylic Painting Group
each 2nd, 3rd, 4th Thursday 1:00-4:00
The Oil and Acrylic Painting Group at Foothills Art Association is a dedicated to the exploration and mastery of oil and acrylic painting. Our group provides an opportunity for artists to refine their techniques and share insights. Join us as we blend colors, experiment with textures, and bring our artistic visions to life on the canvas.
Watercolor Painting Group Fridays 10:00-1:30
The watercolor group is a community of artists brought together by a shared passion for the medium of watercolor. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or a beginner, our welcoming atmosphere encourages exploration, learning, and growth. Join us as we gather to paint, share techniques, and inspire one another.
Life Drawing Group
3rd Monday of each month from 10:30 am to 12:30pm.
Drawing from life is a skill that enriches all artists, regardless of their chosen medium. This group is open to nonmembers. A $10 fee for members and $15 fee for nonmembers covers the cost of live models with an additional $5 if you wish to take photos for future reference. For further information please call the gallery at (619) 464-7167
Contact us at [email protected] and we’ll get in touch with you.
(619) 464-7167