Mission: To be a Catalyst in Richmond through learning and living art.

Vision: Driven by a commitment to our community, the Richmond Art Center is a participatory space that seeks to equitably grow and sustain innovative art practices in Richmond and beyond.

Richmond Art Center (RAC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, arts organization founded in 1936 by artist/educator Hazel Salmi who traveled throughout Richmond teaching art to anyone who was interested. RAC moved into its current 25,000 sq. ft. facility as part of the City of Richmond’s Civic Center Plaza in 1951.

RAC’s purpose is to provide a pathway for lifelong arts learning for people of all ages. While drawing visitors, artists and students from throughout the greater Bay Area, Richmond is the community we seek to serve.

Our programs encompass classes, exhibitions and events at our facility, as well as off-site activities that bring free, high-quality art making experiences to folks with limited access to arts education.