Local Art Nonprofits

Though the environments in which I was living were inspiring, I longed for a community of fellow creators to bounce ideas off of.

After arriving in Ramona, I searched online for art resources in San Diego and discovered the Ramona Art Guild. Connecting with a group of fellow artists, I found a renewed interest in the craft and discovered just how much creativity there is in the community.

There are a number of nonprofit art organizations in Ramona, and the good news is that they’re not just for artists — anyone can benefit from their efforts.

The Ramona H.E.A.R.T. Mural Project is perhaps the most visible creative endeavor in the community. Over the last decade, the project has commissioned artists from Southern California and Ramona to paint murals that celebrate local history and culture.

This year, the Mural Project’s annual event, the Ramona Art and Wine Festival, will be transformed into a three-day passport-style event to ensure that another round of murals can be established in the coming year. Visit ramonamurals.com.

The local 2Create Gallery, 438 Main St., showcases artists from Ramona, Julian and San Diego in a professional gallery setting. The gallery traditionally hosts an open house the first Friday of each month and recently reopened for limited hours. When looking for a gift or décor for your home, think local first — there is everything from photographs to paintings and jewelry to choose from. Visit 2creategallery.com.

The Art Center of Ramona, also located at 438 Main St., aims to connect artists with the public through classes, exhibits and outreach events. In the past, the center has worked with the San Diego County Library system to bring art classes to backcountry residents and hosted creative projects for veterans and their families. It continues to serve as a resource for people who want to learn more about the world of art. Visit theartcenterramona.com.

Ramona Art Guild traditionally meets once a month, with meetings alternating between weekdays and weekends to accommodate all schedules. Activities include art demonstrations, lectures and workshops. Of course, there is the social aspect, too, with opportunities to meet artists across the creative spectrum. Visit zhibit.org/rag.

While many of these organizations are in a holding pattern at this time, it is important to reflect on their impact in the community and ensure their continuity, so they may be enjoyed for years to come. 

You can support these nonprofit organizations by signing up for newsletters, sharing what they do with friends and family, committing to attend future events and supporting them with a one-time or reoccurring donation.

 
Art helps our local economy by attracting visitors who shop, stay and play in Ramona. It introduces people to careers in the creative arena and gives them a means of positive self-expression. It brings residents pride as they walk and drive through town, reflecting on the beautiful murals that decorate the buildings on Main Street.

This year, consider opening yourself up to the power of the arts — you might just find a new appreciation for this colorful, exciting and welcoming local community!