San Pedro’s Art Association celebrates 90th anniversary – Daily Breeze - California News Beep

The San Pedro Art Association, formed in 1936 by a small group of local artists, celebrates its 90th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, in San Pedro. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)

Unique lamps designed by artist Mike Piper are part of the varied collection at the San Pedro Art Association Gallery on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, in San Pedro. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)

Guests explore the San Pedro Art Association Gallery on its 90th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, in San Pedro. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)

Pasadena-based artist Daniel Lee replicates a photo on an oil canvas at the San Pedro Art Association Gallery on its 90th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, in San Pedro. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)

Visitors check out silent auction offerings at the San Pedro Art Association Gallery on its 90th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, in San Pedro. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)

Guests explore the San Pedro Art Association Gallery on its 90th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, in San Pedro. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)

Guests stroll through the collections of the San Pedro Art Association Gallery on its 90th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, in San Pedro. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)

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The San Pedro Art Association celebrated its 90th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 21, at Crafted where the group has a regular booth. Founded when a group of artists just wanted a place to hang out and paint back in 1936, the club became a nonprofit in 1951 and has had several homes through the years, including a long-standing spot at the old Ports O’ Call Village.

Membership stands at a little over 100.

The Saturday celebration included prizes, a silent auction, and wine, beer and food, said Bill Boisselle-Schalaba, group secretary.

Longtime president and former professional photographer John Stinson said the group has long provided a home for budding artists to learn and practice their craft. The group also sponsors a student contest for schools at all levels every year, giving talented young people a chance to learn and grow.

Some 100 pieces from the students are selected to hang up at the group’s public display are at Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles at 112 E. 22nd St., with awards going to students from preschool to high school seniors. Prizes, some cash awards, art kits, and certificates from state and city officials are presented to students with winning entries.

As for San Pedro’s appeal to artists, Stinson said the views rank among the highest.

“We’re a culdesac,” Stinson said, “we’re on the edge of the Pacific Ocean.”

With stunning land and seascapes, the environment has been a natural draw, he said.

And especially back in the day it was affordable.

“Property down here was like a hidden secret almost,” said Stinson. “It’s near the ocean, property values were reasonable and it had good weather.”

The group for many years had a home at the former Ports O’ Call Village before plans got underway to build a new waterfront attraction on the property. The rent back then was free, thanks to an agreement with the Port of Los Angeles.

When plans for the new waterfront were still in the talking stages Stinson said the group moved to Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles after it opened in 2012.

Today, members’ paintings are featured and sold at that craft marketplace hub in what is a historic port warehouse. Classes and other events also are offered by the group. Booth hours are 11 a.m to 6 p.m. Fridays through Sundays.

San Pedro’s Art Association celebrates 90th anniversary – Daily Breeze

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