Our (HI)Story

Arbor Gallery was founded in 1982 by a group of nine Merced Artists who wanted to have a space of their own to show their work and to promote art in the community. Two years of hard work and diligence paid off and in 1984 Arbor Gallery was born.

Arbor Gallery formed a co-operative group of local artists and opened their gallery within the Merced Multicultural Arts Center (The MAC) on Arbor Way, thus Arbor Gallery!

The first gallery was a tiny storefront but quickly expanded. Arbor Gallery has maintained their relationship with the Merced Multicultural Arts Center and as both expanded, Arbor Gallery moved with The MAC, including to our shared current location at 645 W Main Street in Merced. 

Arbor Gallery promotes art and art education to the community by providing various activities open to the public. Exhibits, paint parties, and special events are staples throughout the year.

Arbor Gallery artists offer a wide range of artistic media including oil, acrylic, alcohol ink, pastel and watercolor paintings, photography, fabric art, turned exotic wood, pottery, jewelry, candles and glass art.  Many Arbor Gallery artists are nationally known and exhibit and sell their work in galleries throughout the country.

From the nine original members, the Gallery continues to grow with a diverse and very talented group of 20 artists. Contact us if you’d like to join us!