“Ocean Greeting”, an oil painting by Jenna Hobbs, is part of the Pleasanton Art League’s “18th Annual Fall Members’ Show” at the Harrington Gallery through Dec. 20, 2025. (Image courtesy Firehouse Arts)

The artistic creativity and diversity in Pleasanton and the greater Tri-Valley is on display in the Harrington Gallery all autumn long.

“San Simeon Point” by Gerald Thompson. (Image courtesy Firehouse Arts)

Running the gamut of subjects and styles to grab patrons’ attention, the Pleasanton Art League’s “18th Annual Fall Members’ Show” is open now through Dec. 20 in the fine arts gallery inside the city’s Firehouse Arts Center downtown. 

“This group exhibition is a brilliant amalgamation of styles and mediums that draws viewers in,” Harrington Gallery curator Sydney Tang told the Pleasanton Weekly. 

“With around 75 pieces from artists of all levels — some just starting out, others well-established – visitors get an exciting blend of fresh ideas and evolving techniques. There is always something surprising to discover with the diversity of PAL’s 200-plus membership,” Tang added.

For Alana Shoars, president of the nonprofit PAL, the 2025 fall show is a true celebration of “the rich diversity and creative talent of our community and surrounding areas”.

“Visitors … will discover more than paintings on a wall,” Shoars told the Weekly. “What immediately stands out is the exceptional quality of the artwork and the remarkable talent of our local artists. Each piece offers an opportunity for emotional and intellectual connection — offering a glimpse into the creative heart of its maker.”  

“We hope the exhibition inspires a deeper appreciation for the unique stories and visions each artist shares,” Shoars said. “Behind every brushstroke and sculpture lies a story waiting to be discovered, reminding us of the power of creativity to move, connect and inspire.”

PAL board secretary Linda Garbarino added, “Each year our artists challenge their skills to create outstanding works of art. This year offers an exceptional show.”

“Bosque del Apache” by Ron Rigge. (Image courtesy Firehouse Arts)

The gallery welcomed the “18th Annual Fall Members’ Show” with an opening reception and awards ceremony Oct. 25. The artworks were judged by Andrew Johnstone, a British artist who now lives in the Bay Area and works as a studio painter on large canvases and portraiture.

A series of live artist demonstrations is also part of the exhibition, beginning with Jean Batchelder’s presentation on subtractive painting and watercolor on yupo paper this Saturday (Nov. 8) from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 

“La Plume Magnifique” by Kathleen Hill. (Image courtesy Firehouse Arts)

Next on the calendar are demonstrations by Ashley Whiting on fineliner ink from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Nov. 15, by Nancy Roberts on acrylic from 1-2:30 p.m. also on Nov. 15 and Rashmi Rao on alcohol inks from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dec. 20, closing day for the show.

“The Harrington Gallery provides local artists a space to be celebrated by their community and to gain further exposure throughout the Tri-Valley and greater Bay Area,” Tang said. “Especially with PAL’s fall show being an annual occurrence at the Harrington Gallery, it is exciting to see how returning artists develop their practices year by year. Supporting local art in this way keeps the creative spirit of Pleasanton alive and helps build a stronger, more vibrant cultural scene.”

The gallery is open Wednesdays through Saturdays at the Firehouse, 4444 Railroad Ave. For more information, go to firehousearts.org.

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Jeremy Walsh is the associate publisher and editorial director of Embarcadero Media Foundation's East Bay Division, including the Pleasanton Weekly, LivermoreVine.com and DanvilleSanRamon.com. He joined...

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