A new exhibition is set to transform the Sonoma Community Center into a hub of local artistry this month, offering residents a rare glimpse into the intricate world of printmaking that has quietly thrived in the valley for decades.
“Etched in Sonoma: A Living Legacy,” curated by Simon Blattner and Barbara Wells, is free to the public and runs through May 24 in Gallery 212.
Far from a static display of ink and paper, the show serves as a vital bridge between Sonoma’s storied past and its creative future, celebrating a medium that makes high-caliber fine art accessible to the entire community.
An opening reception, which is open to the public and will feature curator talks and live music, will take place at 5 p.m. Friday, May 1, at the gallery in the center, 276 E. Napa St. in Sonoma.
The exhibition will run through May 24“This exhibition honors etching as an enduring art form and the Sonoma Community Center as a place where that tradition continues to grow,” representatives of the center stated.
At the heart of the impact is the center’s Print Studio — a collaborative space where local artists of all skill levels utilize the historic Griffin etching press to keep the craft alive. For the community, this means the center isn’t just a gallery, but a living workshop where world-class techniques are passed down to neighbors and friends.
The exhibition features works from 16 renowned local and international artists. Artists include Dennis Ahearn, Kim Anno, Chester Arnold, Kelly Autumn, David Avery, David Best, Mario Teleri Biason, Hannah Day, Jessica Dunne, Brett Grunig, Art Hazelwood, Frances McCormack, Jenny Robinson, Jean Schulz, Toru Sugita, and Don Williams.
Frances McCormack
Artist Frances McCormack’s “Begin 2.” (Courtesy of Frances McCormack)
By showcasing prints from Eastside Editions alongside new works created at the center, the show highlights how Sonoma remains a destination for technical mastery and creative experimentation.
Beyond the visual display, the event offers a unique educational opportunity for the public.
On May 21, co-curator Simon Blattner will join Modern Art West owner David Keaton and artist Chester Arnold for a deep-dive discussion into the world of art collecting. The talk aims to demystify fine art prints, explaining why they are often the most accessible entry point for new collectors and how buying local art directly sustains the livelihoods of Sonoma’s creative workforce.
“Etched in Sonoma” is the second in a series of exhibitions at the center curated by Blatter and Wells. The first exhibition, “Craft in the Valley,” debuted in January.
Blattner has presented several exhibitions for the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, including “Book Becoming Art” in 2025 with Wells and artist Maki Aizawa.
The Sonoma Community Center is located at For more information, call 707-938-4626 or visit https://sonomacommunitycenter.org/.
