A Community for Artists, In the Gallery and Online
Step into a space where art comes to life. For over 70 years, we have been a creative community for artists and art lovers in La Mesa. Our mission is to connect, educate, and showcase local talent.
Discover your new favorite artist in our fine art gallery, or explore our innovative online space that celebrates digital art and photography. We’re more than just exhibitions; we’re a hub for learning and connection. Join our monthly meetings with artist demonstrations, or participate in a weekly art meet-up. There’s a place for you to explore, create, and engage with the transformative power of art.
Our Gallery is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday each week from 11 am to 4 pm.
Exhibitions
November
36th Annual Wildlife in Art Show
Prepare to be captivated by the beauty and drama of the animal kingdom at the Foothills Art Association (FAA) 36th Annual Wildlife In Art Show, juried by Roberta Dyer. Step into our gallery space and be immersed in the world of traditional wildlife art. Extending our reach beyond the gallery walls, the Digital Art Online Show allows you to explore the modern side of nature photography and digital painting. This spectacular show comes down on December 4th. Click the images to the left to view the shows.
December
🎁 The C Note Show: Art for $100
Get ready for the easiest art shopping event of the year! Our C Note Show features original artworks—from paintings and drawings to collage and mixed media to digital art and photography—with one incredible rule: Every piece costs $100. This is your perfect chance to find unique Christmas gifts, start or expand your art collection, or add a fresh, original touch to your home decor. Give the gift of art.
January
January Art Show: The Theme of Peace
Find your peace and express it through your art! Our January show invites members to explore what tranquility means to them—be it freedom from violence, compassion for others, love, or family. This is a Members Only exhibition with no entry fee. Submission Window: December 8 – January 5. Take In January 8th, 2-5 pm. Enter here.
We look forward to seeing what brings peace to your canvas!
Meetings/Demos
December Meeting: Members Holiday Party
November 4th, from 5:30 to 7:00 pm.
Get ready to spread some holiday cheer! Join us for our annual Members Holiday Party on Thursday, December 4th, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. It’s our favorite time of year to celebrate you—our valued members—and the holiday season. Come mingle, enjoy delicious refreshments, and find some fantastic steals at our rummage sale. Plus, don’t miss your chance to win a stunning Opportunity Basket, featuring a variety of beautiful and unique items.
It’s the perfect evening to connect with friends and kick off the holidays!
Foothills Art Association’s Digital Fine Art Gallery
Welcome to FAA’s Online Digital Fine Art Gallery—La Mesa’s first dedicated space for showcasing digital art, photography, AI-assisted work, mixed media, and new media creations. This gallery expands our reach beyond Porter Hall, connecting artists and audiences across Southern California and our partner community in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Explore innovative visual art from emerging and established creators.
Click the image or link above to enter the Online Gallery.
Current Call for Entries: “Year’s End Visions 2025”
Submission Window: November 25 – December 8, 2025
The Digital Gallery Entry Form is now permanently located under Digital Gallery in the main navigation menu. The submission link is active.
The exhibition opens December 8 and runs through January 6.
Please note: The main gallery’s C-Note Show does not apply to digital gallery entries. Digital artworks will follow standard digital-gallery guidelines and artist-selected pricing.
For questions, please email us—thank you for supporting and participating in the FAA Digital Gallery!
Follow us on Instagram: @foothillsartassoc
Casual Art Gatherings: Create Together in Community
Our member-organized art meet ups provide a relaxed and collaborative space for artists to connect and create. Bring your works-in-progress and enjoy the company of fellow enthusiasts in a non-instructional setting. It’s a perfect opportunity to share your passion and find inspiration. A $3 gallery fee is collected at each meeting. For further information, please call (619) 464-7167.
Wordell Critique Group
Second Monday of the month 10:00-12:00
The Wordell group encourages growth and development, providing valuable insights and encouragement in a supportive 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 art. This group consists of beginners to experienced artists in a supportive group where creativity flourishes and friendships form around a shared love for drawing. This group is currently closed to new members.
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. The 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 foothillsartassoc@gmail.com and we’ll get in touch with you.
(619) 464-7167