First Friday – Salinas City Center Improvement Association

Artist Reception by Salinas Valley Art Gallery

Greg Hamer — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:04:54 +0000

Ed Avila is a self-taught and renowned photographer and artist. While making his living as a photographer, he developed a distinctive style of watercolor painting before switching to pastels. Most of Ed’s photography is of people, while his paintings depict nearly everything but people. Landscapes, still life and flowers are all subjects for his paintings.

A descendant of an early California family, Ed is deeply connected to the history and geography of our area. His paintings attempt to capture the feelings and memories of growing up and living in such a special place.

With 53 years of experience as a photographer, Ed continues to capture the smiles and hearts of his subjects. He was an artist member of the Salinas Valley Art Gallery for well over 20 years, and he will be joining us at the Gallery on February 6th from 5:00-8:00pm as our Featured Guest Artist. Ed’s work will be on display the entire month of February.

As part of our First Friday event February 6th, SVAG artist Gordon Dill will be doing a watercolor painting demonstration for gallery visitors. Also in the works is a make and take card-making area for young and old alike featuring collage hearts.

If you have not had an opportunity to stop by the Gallery to see our newest highschool installation, Rancho San Juan’s Digital Photography, please do pop by and see these budding artists’ works.

ArtWorks @Salinas Artist Reception Featuring Peggy Hartman by ArtWorks @Salinas

Greg Hamer — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:00:30 +0000

Fall in love with local art this First Friday Artist Reception, February 6, at ArtWorks @Salinas
Featured artist Peggy Hartman presents Art from the Aromas Backroads, a collection inspired by years of observing and painting scenes along the Central Coast’s rural backroads. Also on view is Mark S. Bollwinkel’s Water Breaks Down Rock Over Time, a ceramic series influenced by Japanese traditions that explores process, material, and transformation through clay.
Our February Artist in Residence, Nate Stapleton, presents Alternate Dimensions: Explorations in Shape and Color, a body of work that investigates form, color, and spatial relationships through his experimental visual approach.
Also in the gallery are works by Artists in Residence Cristal Hammer, Edge Lorenzo, Kelly Melendez, Shagufta Khan, Deborah Good, and Brenda Saglio. Enjoy a live guitar performance by Franky Soto and connect with artists and community throughout the evening.
Join us for First Fridays from 12 PM to 8 PM, with the Artist Reception beginning at 5 PM
Regular gallery hours are Tuesday 11 AM to 2 PM, Wednesday 2 PM to 5 PM, and Friday through Sunday 10 AM to 4 PM.

Create a Card by Alliance on Aging

Greg Hamer — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 20:40:06 +0000

Join Alliance on Aging for First Friday Salinas on Friday, February 6.

Enjoy an evening of creativity and community as we come together to make Valentine’s Day cards for seniors living in nursing facilities. A simple, heartfelt message can brighten someone’s day and remind them they are valued and remembered.

Your time and kindness can make a meaningful difference.

First Friday HIP HOP night featuring: San Quinn & Turf Talk w/special guest CTru by Live @ Heirloom Pizza

Greg Hamer — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:00:58 +0000

San Quinn is a San Francisco Bay Area hip-hop legend known for his sharp lyricism, prolific catalog, and foundational role in West Coast rap. A respected veteran of Northern California hip-hop, he has collaborated with industry heavyweights and continues to deliver commanding, high-energy performances rooted in Bay Area culture and authenticity.
Turf Talk is a Vallejo, California hip-hop icon signed to Sic Wid It Records, known for his distinct voice and authentic Bay Area sound. With notable collaborations alongside E-40, he delivers high-energy performances rooted in Northern California culture.
Special guest: CTru
also DJ Mix n Spin
tickets $20
doors at 8pm show at 9pm
no smoking/vaping inside
21+with ID, no outside alcohol, no outside food, no weapons
all sales final/no refunds
advance tickets on sale until 6pm Feb 6, 2026 and then at the door until we sell out!

First Friday Salinas by ArtWorks @Salinas

Greg Hamer — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:00:15 +0000

This month is all about love, community, and connection. Come enjoy an evening of local art, live entertainment, delicious food, and shops open late. It’s the perfect chance to gather with friends or find thoughtful gifts for your loved ones.
Bring your friends and family and discover something new every First Friday of the month — you won’t want to miss it!
Stay tuned for highlights from the special events and exhibitions happening this February.
When & Where:

Every First Friday of the Month
Starting at 5:00 PM
Location: Downtown Salinas
Opening Ceremony: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM, at the One Main Street Stage (in front of the Steinbeck Center).

First Friday Salinas by Various

Greg Hamer — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 18:38:04 +0000

Galentine’s Night Market by Third Eye Trees

Greg Hamer — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 21:55:06 +0000

Gari Paints Art Show by XL Public House

Greg Hamer — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 19:09:48 +0000

Live Music by El Orgin

Greg Hamer — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 21:55:30 +0000

Noche De Artesanos by MILPA Collective

Greg Hamer — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 19:26:32 +0000