Homer Council on the Arts (HCOA) is a community cornerstone with diverse artistic programs and events. From visual art exhibitions to music concerts and educational workshops, HCOA fosters creativity and cultural engagement.
Discover how this vibrant arts center shapes Homer's cultural landscape.
The Homer Council on the Arts (HCOA) has been a critical cultural hub in Homer for over 46 years. It allows artists and art lovers to connect and celebrate diverse artistic expressions.
HCOA offers a comprehensive arts education program with classes and workshops for all ages, from pre-K to adults, fostering creativity and learning within the community.
HCOA hosts various events, including music concerts, diverse performances, wine tastings, and public art exhibitions.
Building a Culture of Art in Homer, Alaska
The Homer Council on the Arts was founded by Mary Epperson, an Alaska Women's Hall of Fame member and a beloved piano teacher for over 60 years. Mary arrived in Alaska with her husband and two children in 1954.
Mary Epperson was the driving force behind the flourishing arts community in Homer, Alaska, and the southern Kenai Peninsula. She played a pivotal role in creating Homer's vibrant arts scene.
In addition to founding the Homer Council on the Arts, Mary Epperson was a founding trustee of the Homer Community Foundation and was instrumental in starting the Kenai Peninsula Orchestra.
She championed other arts organizations, including the Pier One Theatre, Inlet Winds, and the Homer Youth String Orchestra Club, leaving a lasting legacy on the community.
In 2011, the Mayor of Homer, Alaska, declared her birthday, June 6, Mary Epperson Day, in recognition of her contribution to the cultural landscape of Homer, the Kenai Peninsula, and Alaska.
A Pillar of Community Enrichment
Homer Council on the Arts (HCOA) is a testament to artistic expression's power in community enrichment. For over 46 years, Homer Center for the Arts has been a vibrant cultural hub, fostering connections and growth through various art mediums, from stirring music to evocative drama and stunning visual arts.
The energy that flows through the halls of HCOA is palpable. It provides an essential cultural outlet that magnetizes the community. Here, artists find a platform to share their work, and enthusiasts gather to experience the transformative power of art.
Working with dedicated individuals and community organizations, HCOA has sculpted the region into a thriving hub for artistic expression and community engagement, fostering a culture where arts and community are intertwined.
Showcasing Artwork: The HCOA Gallery
A kaleidoscope of colors, emotions, and ideas awaits visitors at the HCOA Gallery, a sanctuary for art lovers. The gallery is a canvas for a diverse range of artistic expressions, featuring:
Traditional and contemporary artwork is lovingly crafted by local artists.
Emerging and mid-career artists showcasing their talents
Public exhibitions in group shows that celebrate the unique voices of the local art scene.
Artists from the Kenai Peninsula submit exhibit proposals to the HCOA gallery, hoping to be featured in the gallery during the year. This inclusivity fosters a dynamic and evolving art gallery that reflects the community's soul and features the works of local Alaskan artists.
South Peninsula Hospital Gallery
HCOA coordinates displays for the hallways of Homer Alaska's South Peninsula Hospital.
Things to Do in Homer Alaska
Arts Education Programs
Educational Programs are offered throughout the year. This summer's program includes art camps for youth, peony-inspired art creation for Homer's Annual Peony Celebration, Chinese Brush Painting, a Folk Music Camp, pottery-throwing instruction, and a mosaic design workshop.
Performances That Inspire
Homer Council on the Arts sponsors performances throughout the year. Upcoming events include:
November 7, 2024: The Carla Bley Experience is a tribute band to Carla Bley, one of America’s greatest and most prolific composers.
November 23, 2024: The Glacier Quartet will entrance audiences with a performance of Beethoven’s String Quartet No.1 and Ginatera’s String Quartet No.1.
December 7, 2024: The Nutcracker Faire - This annual Faire highlights the skill and creativity of artist and makers of the Kenai Peninsula.
Summary
From the gallery's captivating exhibits to the comprehensive arts education programs, the hosting of music concerts, and the vast array of performances, HCOA weaves a tapestry of culture integral to Homer Alaska's identity. This community organization provides educational and entertaining things to do in Homer Alaska.
Let's continue supporting and participating in the vibrant events that HCOA offers. They are the heartbeat of our shared cultural life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can emerging artists display their work at the HCOA Gallery?
Emerging artists can apply to display their work at the HCOA Gallery. Preference is given to Homer, Kenai Peninsula, Alaskan Native, and Alaskan artists.
Are there arts education programs available for both children and adults?
The Homer Council on the Arts offers arts education programs for children and adults, covering various artistic disciplines.
How can I learn about upcoming Homer Council on the Arts programs?
Subscribe to the Artflash newsletter and the event calendar to stay updated on the upcoming Homer Council on the Arts programs.