Our Mission
To provide exhibitions and public programs that both reflect and engage the diverse audiences of the entire Contra Costa region.
The gallery organizes and presents four exhibitions per year. Additionally, throughout the year we offer many opportunities for the public to engage with the visual arts through lectures, workshops, panel discussions and more.
Our History
The gallery was originally founded in 1968 as the "Civic Arts Gallery" and was renamed to honor Peter and Kirsten Bedford, who donated generously to Lesher Center for the Arts. The Bedford Gallery is a part of the City of Walnut Creek's Arts + Rec Department.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
At Walnut Creek Arts + Rec, we recognize that implicit and explicit disparities exist due to historical and systemic barriers to equality. We believe we can support a more equitable community by uniting people through shared experiences. We aspire to intentionally learn, create, and grow together with our community. We strive to foster a diverse and reflective staff that propels our efforts toward accessible, inclusive, and culturally meaningful arts and recreation experiences.