Since its inception in 1956 as a non-profit community-based organization, the Chico Art Center's mission has been to foster and promote the visual arts. The Center has had a long history of offering fine art instruction, professional gallery shows, and events that connect the public with artists. The intent now, as always, is to help the community appreciate the importance of visual art in our society.

The Chico Art Center exists to help the community appreciate the importance of visual art in our society. Since 1956 we have strived to foster and promote the visual arts through fine art instruction, professional gallery shows and events.