Bedford Gallery: A Hub for Contemporary Art

Experience contemporary art at the Bedford Gallery in Walnut Creek, offering diverse exhibitions, engaging programs, and a 'Pay What You Can' admission policy, making art accessible to all.

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Bedford Gallery at Lesher Center for the Arts

The Bedford Gallery, nestled within the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, is a vibrant space dedicated to showcasing contemporary art. With its soaring ceilings, hardwood floors, and abundant natural light, the 3,500-square-foot gallery provides an elegant backdrop for a diverse range of exhibitions. From thought-provoking solo shows to dynamic group exhibitions, the Bedford Gallery offers a platform for both established and emerging artists. The gallery also hosts a variety of public programs, including lectures, workshops, and panel discussions, making it a hub for artistic engagement and education in the East Bay. Admission is 'Pay What You Can', making art accessible to everyone. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious, the Bedford Gallery offers a welcoming and enriching experience.

A brief summary to Bedford Gallery at Lesher Center for the Arts

1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek, California, 94596, US
+1925-295-1417
Visit website

Local tips

Take advantage of the 'Pay What You Can' admission to support the gallery and enjoy art regardless of your budget.
Check the Bedford Gallery's website for upcoming events, workshops, and artist talks to enhance your visit.
Combine your visit to the Bedford Gallery with a performance or event at the Lesher Center for the Arts for a full cultural experience.
Explore the public art installations in downtown Walnut Creek, some of which are curated by the Bedford Gallery.
Consider becoming a member to enjoy free admission and support the gallery's mission.

Getting There

Public Transport

The Lesher Center for the Arts is easily accessible by public transport. Several County Connection bus routes, including routes 4, 5, 21, 321, 602, 1, 601, and 605, stop near the Lesher Center. Route 4, the Downtown Trolley, is a free service that loops through downtown Walnut Creek and stops at the Lesher Center. From Walnut Creek BART station, it's approximately an 8-10 minute walk to the Lesher Center. Alternatively, you can take the free Route 5 shuttle from Walnut Creek BART to Creekside Drive, which is a short walk to the Lesher Center.
Driving

If driving, take Highway 24 to 680 North and exit at Ygnacio Valley Road, then turn right onto California Blvd and left onto Civic Drive. Alternatively, take Highway 680 North and exit at Olympic Blvd, then turn right onto California Blvd and right onto Civic Drive. Parking is available in the Locust Street Garage next to the Lesher Center. The first hour is free, and subsequent hours are $1.25 per hour. Event parking may have a flat fee of $5. You can reserve parking ahead of time using the Park Mobile app. Metered parking is also available downtown, costing $2 per hour with a 3-hour limit for green meters and $1 per hour with a 10-hour limit for purple meters.
Walking

From most points in downtown Walnut Creek, the Lesher Center for the Arts is easily accessible by foot. ориентируйтесь на Civic Drive и Locust Street. The Lesher Center is located at the corner of Locust Street and Civic Drive. From the Walnut Creek BART station, walk south on N California Blvd, then turn right onto Civic Drive. The Lesher Center will be on your left. The walk is approximately 8-10 minutes.

Discover more about Bedford Gallery at Lesher Center for the Arts

The Bedford Gallery, located within the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, stands as a beacon for contemporary art in the East Bay. Since its establishment, the gallery has been committed to presenting a diverse range of exhibitions that reflect the dynamic and evolving landscape of the art world. With a focus on showcasing both established and emerging artists, the Bedford Gallery provides a platform for innovative and thought-provoking works across various mediums. The gallery itself is a stunning space, boasting soaring ceilings, elegant hardwood floors, and an abundance of natural light. Spanning 3,500 square feet, it is the largest community-based visual arts facility between the Bay Area and Sacramento. This expansive setting allows for the presentation of large-scale installations, intricate sculptures, and captivating paintings, creating an immersive experience for visitors. The Bedford Gallery's commitment to accessibility is evident in its 'Pay What You Can' admission policy, ensuring that art is available to everyone regardless of their financial situation. This approach fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, encouraging individuals from all walks of life to engage with the exhibitions and programs offered. Beyond its exhibitions, the Bedford Gallery plays a vital role in the community by hosting a variety of public programs designed to educate, inspire, and engage. These programs include artist talks, workshops, panel discussions, and family-friendly activities, providing opportunities for visitors to delve deeper into the themes and techniques explored in the artwork. The gallery also offers docent-led tours, providing valuable insights and historical context to enhance the viewing experience. The gallery actively collaborates with local schools and organizations to promote art education and outreach. Through these partnerships, the Bedford Gallery strives to cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the arts among young people and to make art accessible to underserved communities. The Bedford Gallery's exhibitions are carefully curated to present a diverse range of artistic perspectives and styles. From solo exhibitions showcasing the work of individual artists to group shows exploring specific themes or movements, the gallery offers a dynamic and ever-changing program. Past exhibitions have featured painting, sculpture, photography, video, and installation art, reflecting the breadth and depth of contemporary artistic practice. In addition to its exhibitions and programs, the Bedford Gallery also plays a role in the cultural life of Walnut Creek by hosting special events, receptions, and performances. Its elegant space provides a unique setting for corporate gatherings, private parties, and community celebrations, further solidifying its position as a vibrant hub for the arts. The Lesher Center for the Arts, which houses the Bedford Gallery, is itself a significant cultural landmark in Walnut Creek. The center hosts a wide array of performances, including theater, music, and dance, making it a destination for arts and entertainment. Visitors to the Bedford Gallery can easily combine their visit with a performance or other event at the Lesher Center, creating a full day of cultural immersion. The Bedford Gallery also curates public art installations throughout Walnut Creek, extending its reach beyond the walls of the gallery. These installations bring art into the public sphere, enriching the urban landscape and providing opportunities for spontaneous encounters with art. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about contemporary art, the Bedford Gallery offers a welcoming and enriching experience. Its commitment to accessibility, education, and community engagement makes it a valuable asset to Walnut Creek and the broader Bay Area.

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Walnut Creek Town

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Bedford Gallery: A Hub for Contemporary Art

A brief summary to Bedford Gallery at Lesher Center for the Arts

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Driving

Walking

Unlock the Best of Bedford Gallery at Lesher Center for the Arts

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Bedford Gallery at Lesher Center for the Arts

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Walnut Creek Town

Walnut Creek Farmers' Market (by CCCFM)

City of Walnut Creek

Landmark Site 150 Walnut Creek Meat Market

Landmark

Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce

Walnut Creek Convention & Visitors Bureau

Color Me Mine

Liberty Bell Plaza

Ruth's Chris Steak House

Walnut Creek Station

Airmail Navigation Arrow

Walnut Creek Water Tower

Walnut Creek Historical Society

Captain Pedro Fages Trail

Unmissable attractions to see

Fountain Head

Diablo Escapes

Civic Park

Acalanes Ridge

The Gardens at Heather Farm

Lindsay Wildlife Experience

Heather Farm Park

The Ruth Bancroft Garden & Nursery

Shadelands Ranch Museum

Memorial bench

Shell Ridge Open Space

Old Borges Ranch

Diablo Shadows Park

Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area

Diablo Foothills Regional Park

Essential places to dine

Katy's Kreek

Massimo Ristorante

Montecatini Ristorante

Montesacro Pinseria - Walnut Creek

Tacos Walnut Creek

Limón

Elia Walnut Creek

LITA

Broderick Roadhouse

Mixed Grain

Burma 2

La Sen Bistro WC

Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse

Walnut Creek Yacht Club

Havana Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

American Cancer Society Discovery Shop

JBJ by Jill

Leonidas -- Love + Chocolate Shop

The Red Box

Labels Luxury Consignment

Deliciouz

Wardrobe Boutique

Target

Brandy Melville - Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek Mercantile

Vinteige

Urban Outfitters

Anthropologie

Walnut Creek- South Main

Louis Vuitton

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Residual Sugar Wine Bar

Mr Lucky's

Dan's Irish Sports Bar