Exploring Local Art: Galleries & Murals Around Ontario California!
Ontario, California is home to a vibrant and steadily growing arts scene, where creativity spills from traditional gallery walls into the city’s streets. From contemporary art spaces showcasing local talent to colorful murals that celebrate the region’s cultural heritage, Ontario offers a rich blend of visual expression for residents and visitors alike. Exploring these galleries and public artworks provides a unique window into the community’s stories, values, and artistic energy, making the city an inspiring destination for art lovers and curious explorers.
Supporting Local Artists
Ontario’s art scene thrives because of strong community engagement, and visitors play a key role in sustaining that creative momentum. Investing time, attention, or even a small purchase can make a meaningful difference to local artists and cultural organizations.
Ways to support the arts:
- Buy artwork, prints, or handmade pieces from local creators
- Attend art fairs, cultural events, and gallery receptions
- Participate in workshops or community classes
- Volunteer or become a member at local museums
- Share art discoveries on social media to boost community visibility
Notable Art Galleries in Ontario:
A. Chino Hills Community Foundation
- Overview: The Chino Hills Community Foundation, together with the Shoppes at Chino Hills, has established a dedicated space where local artists can display and sell their work. The gallery is curated and overseen by chARTS, the arts committee of the Chino Hills Community Foundation.
- Location: The Shoppes at Chino Hills, 13920 City Center Drive, Suite 4055
- Timings:
- Wednesdays: 5:00 to 7:00 PM
- Fridays: 6:00 to 8:00 PM
B. Division 9 Gallery
- Overview: Division 9 Gallery is a vibrant community arts space that celebrates creativity and cultural expression. Owned by Cosme Cordova, the gallery serves as a hub for local artists and art enthusiasts, offering diverse exhibitions and events that showcase the region’s rich heritage. Visitors can explore the gallery during the Riverside Artswalk on the first Thursday of each month or arrange an appointment for a personalized experience.
- Location: 3850 Lemon St. Riverside, CA 92501
- Timings:
- Tuesday – Friday: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – Monday: Closed
C. Studio Claremont
- Overview: Studio Claremont, located in the historic packing house of Claremont Village, is a creative hub where art and imagination flourish. The studio offers themed art and ceramics classes for children, inspiring workshops for adults, pottery painting, birthday parties, field trips, and a variety of other activities, all designed to nurture and support artists of all ages.
- Location: 522 W 1st St, Claremont, CA 91711
- Timings:
- Tuesday – Thursday: 2:30 PM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Monday and Friday: Closed
D. Ahmad Shariff Art Gallery
- Overview: Ahmad Shariff Art Gallery in Claremont exhibits contemporary artworks, including paintings, prints, sculptures, photography, and mixed media from both local and international artists. The gallery features artists such as Cesar Aguiar, Elisa Arancibia, Sandy Garcia, Leonardo Moleiro, and Ahmad Shariff. It also organizes exhibitions, workshops, and events that showcase current trends in modern art.
- Location: 107 Harvard Ave N, Claremont, CA 91711
- Timings:
- Tuesday – Saturday: 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday – Monday: Closed
E. Memo’s Canvas
- Overview: Memo’s Canvas, located in Montclair, California, is an art studio and gallery known for hosting interactive and private paint parties, including glow-in-the-dark and “splash” room experiences. The studio also provides custom artwork and organizes mobile art events for various occasions.
- Location: 5470 A Moreno Street Montclair CA 91763
- Timings: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Tips for Planning an Art Crawl
- Begin your mural tour in the morning for the best lighting
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water
- Look for free or low-cost gallery and museum options
- Check local event calendars for pop-up exhibits or guided tours
- Plan for breaks at nearby cafés or public spaces
Where to Stay: Best Western Ontario Mills Mall
For travelers planning an art-focused getaway, the Best Western Ontario Mills Mall is an ideal and convenient place to stay. Located next to Ontario Mills, one of the region’s largest shopping and entertainment centers, it places visitors close to major freeways, Ontario International Airport, and popular gallery and mural districts. The hotel combines comfort with accessibility, making it a strong choice for weekend explorers and art enthusiasts.
Highlight of Amenities include:
- Modern, comfortable rooms designed for relaxation
- Complimentary breakfast to fuel your day of art exploration
- Walking distance to shopping, dining, and entertainment
- Quick access to museums, downtown areas, and mural corridors
Don’t miss out on the murals, galleries, and cultural experiences – Book your room now!
