During the 1930's a group of artisans gathered to share their interests in the arts, and Mrs. H.J. (Ethyl) Bolinger, artist and benefactor perceived a need for a gallery and dedicated gallery space on Pine Street to the "Lodi Art Club." Mr. and Mrs. Alby Lind, owners of the building, donated the rent.
During the 1940's the "Lodi Art Club" became the "The Lodi Community Art Center," often shortened to Lodi Art Center. In August, 1960 the organization was incorporated (501c) as "The Lodi Community Art Center," a non profit educational organization "to encourage an interest in, and study of, the arts." When the property was sold in 1962, meetings were held at a house at 107 W. Lockeford Street. The organization then moved to the renovated Old Lodi Union High School at Hutchins Street Square in 1982, first to the locker room and then to the old music room. In 1996 the organization left Hutchins Street Square to make way for additional reconstruction to the theater and fine arts building.The center was offered space on Ham Lane in the Lakewood Mall and stayed there until it had to move once again .A nice home at Vino Piazza in Lockeford was short-term due to zoning laws. After several years on Church Street in Downtown Lodi the center has returned to Lakewood Mall, where it has a studio and attractive gallery. Prior to World War II, the Lodi Art Center's first Art Annual show was held at the Lodi Grape Festival Grounds.
The second Art Annual show was in the foyer of the Lodi Women's Club. By 1965 the Art Annual was held at Barengo Winery and displayed the paintings on the old wine barrels. During its Hutchins Street Square years, the Art Annuals were held there. Beginning with the 38th Art Annual in 1997, the show has been held at the Woodbridge by Mondavi Winery in Woodbridge and has become a major cultural event for the area.
The Lodi Community Art Center has gained Statewide and National recognition for our members achievements and contributions to the community. Many blue ribbons have been brought to Lodi by the members and the organization continues to reach out to the community with shows, demonstrations, and speakers.
