Pence Gallery
MISSION:
The Pence Gallery's mission is to serve the community through offering high-caliber art exhibits, supporting the development of local and regional artists, and providing educational programs to visitors of all ages.
HISTORY/INFORMATION:
As a unique art venue, the Pence Gallery has been a special place to artists and community members for more than 45 years. Originally, the building served as the dental office of its benefactor, Joe Pence. Dr. Pence was a lively individual who, along with his wife Hazel, offered his dental office and its surrounding property to the city of Davis to house a non-profit organization. Although many community groups petitioned for this largesse, it was determined that a newly established art organization would best succeed with this opportunity. The Pence Gallery Association was formed in 1975 and incorporated in 1976 by a small group of community leaders, UC Davis professors, and artists. This Association is managed by a volunteer Board of Directors, a Director/Curator, and an Assistant Director.
The Pence Gallery has occupied the 212 D Street location in downtown Davis since 1975, enhancing its location through a capital campaign that brought about a state-of-the-art facility with over 4,500 square feet. While the new building by San Francisco architects Wayne Barcelon and Darlene Jang, completed in 2005, is located on a City-owed property, the Pence is not operated by the City of Davis and receives no funding related to the building or operational expenses.
The Pence Gallery continues to be a place of artistic stimulation and learning. Throughout its history, many regional artists, now recognized nationally, exhibited at the Pence early in their careers. Site-specific installations have also been an important exhibition feature. More recently the Pence Gallery has contributed to the scholarly documentation of Northern California art and culture through research, catalogue publication, and fine exhibitions. It has also evolved into an art educational resource for elementary, high school, and university students through its internship program and ArtSmart program. Adult art workshops offer adults of all abilities a chance to experiment, discover, and create under the guidance of talented local and regional artists.