I'm rounding up from 3 1/2 stars to 4 for several reasons. First, because this is another stop in…read morethe Passport 2 History book, and the hostess was delighted to see us bring in the Passport. Kudos! Second, the hostess / cashier was extremely welcoming, informative, and gracious. She was happy to see us, which is always a nice feeling. She let us know that there was a group meeting down in the basement about to get started in 7 minutes, but that we could go down there to see a collection of weavings on display. We popped down to check them out. While not mind-blowing, it was a fairly extensive grouping of closely woven pieces of varying size and design. Back up on the main floor they had their current traveling exhibit of artwork from the collection of the Mullin Automotive Museum. The varied works of photography and paintings in various media are as striking as the autos that inspired them. Well worth experiencing for those who love the sleek lines and elegant components of classic cars. Having been to the Mullin, I don't remember the artwork as much as the cars, which suggests that highlighting the art is a worthwhile endeavor. Because these works were not the property of the Carnegie, but rather on loan, photography was not allowed. Up on the second floor, selfies only were recommended, but photos of the museum's permanent collection were okay. The current selections are of the plein air style, with emphasis on California subjects. Cornelis Botke (husband of Jessie Arms Botke, noted Ventura County painter) is represented with one of his landscapes. I thought I recognized the Botke name. Jessie Arms Botke's works are currently featured at the Santa Paula Art Museum. There is a fair amount of unused space, especially on the second floor. Portable display walls could be utilized to expand the number of works available to see. I suppose lighting could be a challenge, but they could surely figure it out. The building itself, in neoclassical style, was the former Oxnard City Library. It presents a grand facade in downtown Oxnard, adjacent to Plaza Park. Free parking in their own lot and adjacent streets. We saw a fashion photo shoot happening out front when we arrived, and it does make a statement as an architecture background. I understand that it's a popular place for photography. As we were leaving, the hostess mentioned that around the corner is their "Artist in Residence" venue, and suggested that we check it out. The current group of pieces there are mostly focused on photographs, and are vibrant, youth-focused, and often raw in emotion and subject matter. Worth checking out, especially for anyone who thinks that art museums are "stuffy".

It says this place was open until 5 today but when I walked up no evidence of other people or being…read moreopen... no closed sign just empty. It is a beautiful old building and I hope it's going to stay that way and do something... Just know if you come here it may say open online and not be.

Havilah is an amazing artist! Her use of color and her attention to detail makes her work so…read morestunning! She has done a few commission pieces for me and I have loved every one!! She is so kind and easy to work with! Love her!

Havilah is an amazing young artist. She has done 2 paintings for us both of our horse that passed…read moreaway. She is a dream to work with and so talented. Will use her talents again I am sure.

Bells Art Factory is one of Ventura's true gems. Located in a beautifully repurposed former…read moremattress factory, this nonprofit community arts center is deeply rooted in creativity, accessibility, and community care. The space is home to 30+ local artists working in painting, ceramics, photography, jewelry, and more. In addition to artist studios, Bells offers youth art classes, artist-led workshops, and cultural programming including Ballet Folklórico, Aztec Dance, and yoga (Monday-Friday) with a suggested donation, making wellness and movement accessible to everyone. I've personally attended donation-based sound baths and their Día de Muertos event, and both were thoughtfully organized, welcoming, and grounded in community and cultural respect. The value here is undeniable. You are getting high-quality programming, meaningful cultural experiences, and direct support of local artists and educators, all without high price barriers. Parking is available in a small lot on site, though spaces are limited. Street parking is also available in the surrounding neighborhood. They also host First Fridays, which are always a great way to experience the space, meet artists, and support local creativity. Everything here feels intentional and community-driven. If you're looking for an affordable, enriching space that truly invests back into the community, Bells Art Factory is absolutely worth visiting and donating to.

Checked out a free Zumba class tonight! I had a blast! It was only 45mins but I really got a…read moreworkout!! Lots of smiles and so much fun!!! I think they also offer free art classes. I had never been here before and I'm so happy my friend recommended this place. What an maxing community center. I was told there is a Day of the Dead event November 2,2023. Not sure if I will be able to make it but will try :)

During my last trip to Ojai, I was attracted by some cool t-shirts, on sale, outside Nomad Gallery…read more It was a funny coincidence since we read recently in Ojai Quarterly a good article about Leslie Clark (the owner of this gallery), her art (she paints beautiful art pieces, mostly inspired by her trips to Africa- Niger) and her foundation and the great work she does to help people in Niger. The gallery is more than a gallery, it's a cool store that sells clothing, jewelry, sculptures, masks, paintings, home decor items mostly imported from Africa, Niger and Mali. Sure, the prices are a bit higher, but everything in here is unique, one of a kind item, hand made by various artists. I had to get a t-shirt, they were cool, cheap, made in Africa, in a process to help women there use their skills to try to make a living. One of a kind t-shirts, fair trade. We had a nice time chatting with Leslie and she was nice and accommodating with me because I had to try the shirt on, make sure it fits me. Beautiful merchandise, nice store. They'll have a major sale on July 8th, if you'll be in the area, stop by. Or whenever you'll visit Ojai, pop in Nomad Gallery, it's next to Libbey Park, but it's a cool place that will transport you far away, on another continent.

Nomad Gallery is my favorite store in Ojai. Unique one of a kind African fabrics and jewelry. I…read morealways stop by to browse and buy whenever I am in Ojai. The owner is lovely and travels there herself to support local tribal artists and artisans.

I have to agree with all the 5 star reviews! It's the owner that made this already great gallery…read moreeven better. She took the time to explain the art, the history of the conversation of this historic home into the gallery, the legacy of Beatrice Wood and the inspiration behind the items in the gift shop. I bought some of the chocolates that are made locally in Ojai but I love the art on the packaging that I'm not ready to open them yet :) She also gave great recommendations for food and activities in Ojai. Thank you! Update: Ate a chocolate bar. I just need to tell you all how delicious it was!

Was there yesterday and didn't have time to view the gallery but was following the street signs to…read moretheir chocolate sign. They make and sell a line of chocolates that is simply amazing. The owner provided great information about the artist who inspired their chocolate. Can't wait to go back and buy more chocolate and walk the gallery.

Beware , Donna Granada the owner here has a very bad attitude and has no idea on how to deal with…read morepeople in a positive way. She threatens and has a huge issue when things do not go her way. The experience was absolutely horrible.

Focus on the Masters is a wonderful, hard-working and dedicated group that supports artists and…read morearts education. The monthly Artist Spotlight sessions are always fascinating and the Afterglow parties bring together an amazing crowd of artists and arts aficionados. The people involved, and especially the warm, brilliant and talented Donna Granata, are very exceptional and make me feel so lucky to have discovered them when we moved to Ventura County a bit over 2 years ago. Now we never miss an event unless we are out of town. Plus the educational programs run by Aimee French are a priceless contribution to local schools. I don't know who Mr. Grump is with his negative review, but Donna and her team are extremely positive and welcoming and work endlessly for little personal gain. I urge anyone with an interest in the arts to look at the Focus website and come check out an event. See you there!

I love this boutique.... The owners are amazing, kind, and friendly. We have bought several gifts…read moreand have gotten a tour of the little boutique and looked at all their art. In the back of the store you'll find people's prayers and its amazing to see their set up. We have left little prayers ourselves. You should definitely stop by and visit.

A small family-owned, religious-themed store primarily focused on "Angel" artifacts…read more The store didn't hold any interest for me until it was pointed out that it held a makeshift shrine of an estimated 20,000 post-it notes filled with prayers & best wishes for others in need. While I wish I would have written something more eloquent, the sincere thought was there as I took a moment to pen a 'get well' post-it for a fellow Yelper who is battling cancer: http://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=sIz02nAyQIrDtFavxZtfTQ

Shopping at Human Arts Gallery was probably the highlight of our day out in Ojai. It is a cross…read morebetween an art gallery and a gift shop nestled in downtown Ojai. My husband bought a one-of-a-kind watch at there many years ago and he's had non-stop compliments on it ever since. We returned today and drooled over beautiful/unique wall art as well as fascinating cast bronze sculptures by local artist, Ted Gall. In the end we only bought birthday cards (they have some greats in that department too!), and will certainly return.

Out of what I saw on this street/strip this was one of my favorites. The place reeked of artists'…read morewares. I wished I could have bought something there but artists work can cost a lot, as they should. They had amazing artisan jewelry, whimsical and labor intensive. There were your silken/colorful clothing, wonderful to the touch and eyes. Unusual and wearable. There was furniture, that was not only handmade but painted in pictures. I could eat it all up it was that good.