Arts in State Parks Program

Arts in California Parks is your ticket to a vibrant tapestry of experiences in our beautiful state parks, through exciting events that spark your curiosity, engaging programs that inspire your inner artist and stunning installations that transform familiar landscapes.

We’re not just creating art – we’re nurturing connections, fostering well-being, and painting a brighter future for our communities. Our passionate State Park staff and talented artists are joining forces to make this happen! Since the summer of 2023, we’ve been piloting projects across the state, and we’re thrilled to see the program grow.

A group of five musicians is performing on an outdoor stage surrounded by greenery. The band includes a violinist, banjo player, mandolin player, upright bass player, and guitarist. The musicians are playing acoustic instruments and appear focused on their performance, creating a rustic, harmonious atmosphere in a natural, woodland setting. The violinist is seated, while the others stand, contributing to a vibrant live music experience in the heart of nature.

The Bloomfield Bluegrass Band performs for the Sylvan Sounds concert at the Redwood Forest Theater in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve on August 2, 2024. Photo by Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods.

A starburst sun shines in the blue sky behind an emphatic loop of red paper streamer flying from an indistinct kite. A few other kites without such elaborate tails are barely visible in the distance.

An image of a kite being flown in the clear blue sky at the Community and Unity People’s Kite Festival in Los Angeles SHP. Photo from Monica Orozco, photographer.

Ready to explore, create, and thrive with us?

We invite you to explore these inspiring initiatives on our interactive map and catch up on completed projects on our News & Updates page.

Explore Projects

Are you an artist, culture bearer, or part of a California Native American tribe?

We’d love to work with you! Check back often for the latest projects or add your name or organization to our Artist Directory if you’re interested in future collaborations.

Artist Directory
Two people stand on a stage, each with a microphone in front of them on a stand. The person on the left wears a traditional outfit, featuring a white top and a blue, patterned skirt, with a headband. The person on the right wears a blue T-shirt and a multicolored, patterned skirt, and a shell necklace. Behind them, several people are present, dressed in traditional garments, and some are near drums, suggesting a musical or cultural performance. The event takes place under a white tent, with a grassy area and hillside visible in the background.

Little Tokyo’s Nobuko Miyamoto and Tina Calderon (Gabrielino Tongva, Chumash, Yoeme) engage attendees at the community event, Procession at Los Angeles State Historic Park on October 21, 2023. Photo by Meztli Projects.

A park ranger in uniform with long dark hair bends down to help a small child in a pink hoodie carefully brush yellow paint along the side of a building as part of a mural. Several stripes of other muted earthy colors already adorn the concrete and plastic siding, looking like bright streaks of sunshine.

Growing Together Day 2023 at Candlestick Point State Recreation Area. Photo by Parks California.

Curious about parks or the California Arts Council’s designated art organizations and agencies in your county?

Our Resources page is your go-to guide!

View Resources

Join our community and stay in the loop!

Sign up for our email list at the bottom of this page and together, we can create a more inclusive, and artistically rich park experience for all Californians.

The image shows a large group of people gathered outdoors on a sunny day, standing under a tree with a canopy of green leaves. In the foreground, there are children and adults holding signs that read "Dos Rios," indicating the name of the new state park. The crowd includes individuals wearing uniforms, hats, and casual clothing, suggesting a diverse group of participants, possibly including park rangers, officials, and community members. Behind them are rows of empty chairs and a building with a large structure in the background. The atmosphere appears festive and community-oriented, with everyone smiling and looking at the camera.

Attendees at the Dos Rios State Park opening day on June 12, 2024. Photo by California State Parks.

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