Berkeley Art Center

Answered the phone, but disconnected me in the middle of my initial sentence. When I called back the phone just rang and rang (not going to voicemail). It is during their posted open hours. We'll just go somewhere else. I feel sad for the artists who show their work here.

Came here first-time for Graphic designer Leah Rosenberg's exhibit. I'm a big fan of her so came to support. Leah's work & concept was great! But overall a bit disappointed at the gallery.

Scene: Weekday afternoon. traveling-solo. One hour drive. Unsure of what to expect (Minimal reviews on Yelp)

About the Gallery:
- Space: Way too small, the entire gallery can be viewed within 5 minutes

- Ambiance: cozy, relaxing, down-to-earth. Friendly staff who offered help & Wifi access. Appreciate it.

- Aesthetics: Meh, nothing impressive. Can be more thoughtful..

- The gallery's outdoor environment is poorly designed. Lacking signs at storefront, no instructions whatsoever. Located in the middle of a park, weeds unmowed and trash on the side. From within the park, there's a bridge to cross, slope to walk down, and some turns to make. However, it's not visitor friendly at all! No signs. Had to ask the locals to find out.

- Parking: Most parking is limited to local residents w/ permits, but I managed to find free parking in the neighborhood for about 5-min walk.

Local artistic support center.

My good friend R took me here years ago to inspect a photography exhibit by a local artist. What she did, was enter the dilapidated buildings and catch these fantastic shots of dead industrial buildings and their quiet yet fierce beauty. Her photos were actually the one that have encouraged my shots of buildings and I have to say, a mentor from afar :)

The venue is a pretty wide open space, after one takes the meandering trail towards the secluded spot nestled between trees. The seats, despite being a bit uncomfortable for my big butt and my restless leg syndrome (I think that's what I have ;o) do place you close to the performers. In fact, when I caught the 2007 performance of Macbeth here, the scenes where actors took flight caused a breeze to move past my face. Now that's what I call a performance.

I knew two of the actors through my friend, but have to say, that Paul Jenning's role as Macbeth sealed the deal on that play. Brooding. Confused. Manipulated. A man who was driven to the point of madness by others attempting to secure their own destinies...I was thoroughly impressed.

I'll be back for future performances and this venue is invaluable to the residents who support artistic progress.

Went there during their posted business hours and they were closed. Pretty frustrating considering I drove in from Sacramento. If they are no longer open (or only open by appointment) then their hours online and on location should express that.

Great show on of local work until January 27th. If you're a buyer, go quickly.

There is something quite surreal about this place. The art exhibit I saw here was memorable-photos straight from the 60's. It was the real deal. It was photojournalism that gave a peek into the not so distant, yet distant past. Visit this art center for an altered experience in some way or another. Although it is a little tricky to find, admission price is donation only, so come and support this local gem.

This is a great art gallery. Beautiful building nestled in near a park, with some benches and bbq pits.

The inside is cozy and welcoming. They have rotating exhibits. Definitely worth checking out on monthly basis. And it's free.