Enjoy a Bracing ArtNight on Friday Night

ArtNight Pasadena returns citywide on Friday from 6 to 10 p.m. Over 20 art and cultural institutions will open their doors to the public for free in-person activities, offering a variety of visual and performing arts experiences from 6 to10 p.m. Limited free shuttles will be available to transport visitors to all venues throughout the city, making it easy to explore all the offerings on display.

Unsurprisingly, rain is predicted, however temperatures will be warmer than in recent weeks, the National Weather Service said.

The event, which has been running for over 20 years, aims to promote and highlight Pasadena’s local arts and cultural organizations while also boosting their memberships.

ArtNight is produced by the City’s Cultural Affairs Division in partnership with the ArtNight partner organizations. According to Rochelle Branch, the City’s Cultural Affairs Manager, the event has grown significantly over the years, reflecting the depth and breadth of Pasadena’s arts institutions.

The Spring ArtNight promises a range of art exhibitions, live performances, and interactive experiences for visitors. 

The Art Center campuses will feature two design exhibitions, including “Inside the Mind of a Designer,” showcasing the work of Clive Piercy, a noted designer, author, and educator. “Polski Projekt” exhibits Poland’s posters and type design.

Other visual arts exhibitions include PUSD’s “No Boundaries 18” student art exhibition at Paseo Colorado and murals by local artists at One Colorado. The Armory Center for the Arts exhibition, “Exposure: Native Art and Political Ecology,” will explore eco-based themes, while Light Bringer Project at Day One features “Wild,” a collaborative art experience featuring outdoor environments highlighting climate, sustainability, and endangered species.

In Brookside Park, near the Rose Bowl, Kidspace Children’s Museum debuts “Butterfly Season,” offering visitors a chance to weave, spin, and play in celebration of spring. At City Hall, the “Fairy Garden” at City Hall Rotunda invites patrons to create a spring succulent terrarium.

Multicultural art and dance will be on display at the Alkebu-lan Cultural Center, the USC Pacific Asia Museum’s “Global Asias: Contemporary Asian and Asian American Art,” and the Pasadena Conservatory of Music, which presents classical, multicultural, and interactive performances. Japanese Taiko drumming will take over the Shumei Arts Council, or patrons can watch a live rehearsal of “An Irish Celebration: Poetry, Songs, and Humor” at Parson’s Nose Theater.

The Pasadena Library’s “One City, One Story 2023” will highlight authors and books while exploring Afghani and Latino culture at the Lamanda Park Branch.

Unlike art walks that are concentrated in a specific area, ArtNight Pasadena offers free shuttle bus service that provides transportation to all venues across the city. However, some venues are perfect for pedestrians to reach as well. Some venues add an extra layer of programming with City Mini-grants to add a new dimension for audiences.

The evening will also feature popular food trucks at many of the arts locations. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or just looking for a fun evening out, ArtNight Pasadena promises to be an exciting event for all ages and interests.