More than 100 artists who live, work, or create in Manhattan Beach will show their paintings, sculptures, photography, ceramics, and mixed media starting Friday, July 24, when the Manhattan Beach Art Center opens its 2026 Annual Community Exhibition with a free public reception from 5 to 8 p.m.

The exhibition runs through Sunday, October 4, at 1560 Manhattan Beach Boulevard. The Art Center is open Fridays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The show arrives as the city's arts programming operates under a broader mandate. The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 26-0006 on Tuesday, April 7, expanding the municipal code to allow public art funds to cover performance arts and other forms beyond traditional visual installations.

Commission planning underway

The Manhattan Beach Cultural Arts Commission, which advises on public art spending and programming, met Monday, July 20, at 4 p.m. to review its annual work plan. The commission has discussed the work plan at multiple meetings this year, including its May 18 session. Specific priorities and budget figures from the July 20 discussion have not been released.

Parks and Recreation Director Mark Leyman oversees the commission and presents its minutes to the City Council, according to council records.

The commission won't meet again until Wednesday, September 30, at 4 p.m. Both the Monday, August 17, and Monday, September 21, regular sessions have been cancelled. The next regular meeting after that is Monday, October 19.

Residents can attend commission meetings in person or via Zoom (Meeting ID: 161 444 0182). Public comments must be submitted by noon on the meeting day at manhattanbeach.gov/ecomment or by email to [email protected].

Upcoming in the South Bay

  • Friday, July 24: 2026 Annual Community Exhibition opening reception, Manhattan Beach Art Center, 1560 Manhattan Beach Blvd., 5–8 p.m. Free.
  • Every Tuesday: Manhattan Beach Certified Farmers' Market, Civic Center, 1400 Highland Ave., 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
  • Wednesday, September 30: Cultural Arts Commission meeting, 4 p.m., in person and via Zoom.