From the Canvas
We share the stories, photos, events, and community moments that bring Hemet Valley Art Association to life. Follow along for updates from exhibitions, workshops, public art projects, student celebrations, member activities, and more.
Demonstration Saturday with Laura Ryan
Artists and guests enjoyed a hands-on afternoon with Laura Ryan as she demonstrated the art of wet felting, transforming merino wool, water, and a little soap into a beautifully shaped felt vase.
Hemet Valley Art Association Receives $24,000 Grant from California Arts Council
Hemet Valley Art Association has been awarded a $24,000 General Operating Support grant from the California Arts Council, helping strengthen the organization’s operations, programs, and service to local artists and the community.
Earl McNeese: September 2026 Featured Artist
Longtime HVAA member and award-winning photographer Earl McNeese is September’s Featured Artist, recognized for his distinctive photography, creative persistence, and years of service to the gallery.
Afternoon of Art and Community at Lily's in Idyllwild
The Hemet Valley Art Association recently participated in a special community art event at Lily's in Idyllwild. Members shared artwork, demonstrations, and handcrafted merchandise while connecting with visitors, enjoying live music, and celebrating the value of local partnerships that support artists and the arts.
Second Annual Crazy Crafty Collections of Clutter Brings Creativity, Community, and Great Finds
The Hemet Valley Art Association's Second Annual Crazy Crafty Collections of Clutter brought artists together for an afternoon of creative treasures, great food, and community while raising approximately $600 to support the HVAA Art Center.
Tracy Anderson: August 2026 Featured Artist
Meet Tracy Anderson, HVAA’s August 2026 Featured Artist, a watercolor and mixed-media artist whose creative journey spans graphic design, urban sketching, and a wide range of artistic mediums.
Community Comes Together to Celebrate Hemet’s New Public Mural
HVAA joined artists, residents, and community partners to celebrate Hemet’s first community-led mural, a public art project created through collaboration, creativity, and local participation.
A Summer Open House Filled with Art, Community, and Celebration
HVAA’s Summer Open House brought together artists, members, community leaders, and visitors for an evening celebrating highlighted artist Kathy Schmitt, local art, and the teamwork that made the event a success.
Student Art in the Gallery
Throughout July and August, HVAA is showcasing artwork created by students in our gallery classes, with a special focus on the creativity and growth of our younger artists.
Kathy Schmitt: July 2026 Featured Artist
Meet Kathy Schmitt, HVAA’s July 2026 Featured Artist, whose lifelong love of art and science led her back to painting after a career in medical technology.
Hummingbird Book Signing with Anthony Lujan
Anthony Lujan's June book signing attracted new visitors to HVAA, generated over $3,000 in gallery sales, welcomed new members, and highlighted hummingbird conservation through photography and storytelling.
Demonstration Saturday with Christine White
Artists and guests enjoyed an inspiring afternoon with Christine White as she demonstrated her imaginative approach to storytelling through painting, sculpture, and nature-inspired artwork.
HVAA Website 2.0 is Live!
HVAA Website 2.0 is Live!
Explore the newly redesigned HVAA website featuring improved navigation, expanded content, online memberships, donations, and a stronger showcase for artists, events, and programs.
Beverly Squire: June 2026 Featured Artist
Discover the artwork of Beverly Squire, whose watercolor and oil paintings capture the beauty of landscapes, gardens, coastal scenes, and treasured still life subjects through a representational style with an impressionist touch.
HVAA Receives Community Partnership Donation from Provident Bank
Provident Bank donations to Hemet Valley Art Association through its Community Partnership Program, supporting local arts and community programming.
HVAA Takes Part in Hemet’s First Community-Led Public Mural
HVAA was proud to take part in Hemet’s first Community-Led Public Mural, joining artists, residents, and community leaders for Community Paint Day on May 17, 2026.
Demonstration Saturday with Igor Koutsendo
During a lively Saturday demonstration, artist Igor Koutsenko transforms two simple canvases one blue, one yellow into compelling seascapes, revealing how color relationships shape perception. As he paints, he shares insights on limiting palettes, embracing experimentation, and using juxtaposition to bring paintings to life.
Zallah Hobson: May’s 2026 Featured Artist
Zallah Hobson, an 18-year-old digital fine artist from Hemet, California, shares her artistic journey and growing passion for digital media. From gallery displays to online sales, she continues to refine her craft while studying and building her creative career.
19th Annual Evening of Art - Student Achievement Awards
Hemet Valley Art Association celebrated local student artists during this year’s Evening of Art, an annual youth-focused event recognizing creativity, achievement, and community support for arts education.
Demonstration Saturday with Linda “Vivian” Baranek
In an engaging demonstration, Linda “Vivian” Baranek guided participants through the relaxing art of Zentangle, combining structured patterns with hands-on practice. Attendees explored both drawing and color, creating intricate designs in a fun, supportive setting.