Arts/Entertainment Source: Benicia Arsenal Artists Opens their doors

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For 50 years, artists have come and gone Benicia Arsenal studios. Despite the ebb and flow, this year’s artists will once again open their doors to the public this weekend.

Open studios provides visitors with a unique opportunity to see the work of artists that don’t regularly show their art in town, says artist Susan Sachs: “I think when people do find us, if they’re into art, they’re really surprised at the quality of art that’s going on inside the Arsenal.”

While Sachs works with mixed media art, there are photographers, abstract artists, sculptors, oil painters and so many more at the Arsenal. Examples of each artist’s work are available for viewing on the Benicia Arsenal Artists website.

In total, 30 artists will showcase their work throughout the Arsenal and nearby buildings for Open Studios.

The Benicia Arsenal, originally a U.S. Army facility, now houses local artists, whose studios are positioned among original 1850s buildings. “It’s old brick and arched windows and great light,” says Sachs.

The building has “character,” she says, laughing about the historically leaky roof and temperature changes.

Despite its quirks, the Arsenal overlooks the Carquinez Strait, so it’s not hard to wonder why artists have continually found inspiration in such a space, especially attracting photographers. “You’re always seeing photographers, groupings of people in strange places in our building, but it’s great,” laughs Sachs.

Due to landlord changes over the past several years, the number of resident artists has decreased, but “held on,” says Sachs. After the COVID pandemic, she was one of the resident artists that helped to reinstate their annual open studios, which was originally run by local glassblowers, she says.

Benicia is often described as an art town, so even when the glassblowers moved on, the Benicia Arsenal Artists were there to continue the event. “There’s always been artists and craftspeople here in Benicia wanting to show their work to people,” says Sachs.

Over the years, attendance at the Open Studios has come in both large and small waves, so much so that Sachs doesn’t focus too much on how many people come, but the conversations she is able to have.

“It’s kind of a party that you invited a lot of people to and you’re really not sure how many people are going to show up,” she laughs. “But I’ve gotten to the point now where it’s more quality over quantity for me.”

Engaging with visitors interested in her art, whether they love it or hate it, sparks some energy into her work, she says. “I have wonderful conversations with people about art in general, about life in general. So I really enjoy opening my studio up and having new energy come in.”

This year, most of the artists that are showing in the main building are upstairs where there is no elevator access. For those that are able, stair access will be available and lead to a wider array of artists studios.

Although the location may be difficult to find at first, there will be signage posted to direct visitors where they should explore next and every showing studio is within walking distance, says Sachs.

To learn more, visit beniciaarsenalartists.com