SHELLY CONE

The Pacific Conservatory for the Performing Arts has unquestionably earned a local reputation for quality theater—a reputation that’s spread far and wide. Recently, at a United States Institute of Technical Theatre convention, the conservatory was officially recognized with the Thomas DeGaetani Award for outstanding lifetime achievement and longtime contribution to the performing arts community. PCPA’s […]

Combining their love of jazz with their love of God, some Central Coast musicians are challenging the notion of traditional worship. Jazz Divine offers a monthly jazz worship service that serves up a non-denominational message with some traditional mainstream jazz performed by talented musicians. Jazz Divine consists of Geoff Moran on drums, Ed Hite on […]

The world of classical music, with its formality and tradition, sometimes gets viewed as inaccessible. Poulenc Trio strives to mix up that perspective, showing that good music can and should reach everyone. Made up of Bryan Young on bassoon, pianist Irina Kaplan, and Vladimir Lande on obo, each member of the trio is distinguished individually […]

Some music lovers dream of putting out high-energy, charismatic rock vibes. Others dream of capturing those exciting moments and chronicling a point in history. Photographer Daniel Dreifuss has spent nearly a decade taking part in fast-paced, electric rock moments and has captured it in photos. This month, he’ll share the resulting images in an exhibit […]

Jewelry often makes a statement, but jewelry by artist James Cleland tells a story. Using metals, gems, and intricate overlay, Cleland sets his work apart with his forging, piercing, and hand-engraving techniques. He crafts ornate designs inspired by natural forms combined with elements from his Irish and Scottish heritage, Celtic art, and Japanese symbolism to […]

Part of what makes reading a good book a pleasurable experience is finding a good place to read it. Santa Maria Valley artists have created unique chairs to add flair to a cozy nook or quiet corner, helping to create the perfect reading place. A lower-level storefront in the Santa Maria Town Center contains dozens […]

The latest show at Gallery Los Olivos is marked by soft pastels, references to nature, and slight feminine touches. It features the jewelry designs of Patricia Watkins and the watercolor works of Peggy Fletcher. Watkins’ creations feature beaded elements coupled with sterling silver and gold-filled findings. She also occasionally uses brass and copper, as well […]

Mapmaking is like a science, requiring exact measurements and precise points. Casual observers may have a hard time imagining how artistic flair may fit into the cartographic process. But for 20 years, Connie Brown and Redstone Studios have created maps that aren’t just works of art, but are significant representations of life events for people […]