Our Mission
Front Porch Gallery is an arts nonprofit and dynamic art space in Carlsbad, CA committed to increasing access to creative opportunities for older adults and adults with disabilities, providing an inclusive and inspiring environment for creative expression and meaningful connections. With intergenerational exchange at the core of our mission, Front Porch Gallery offers a dynamic combination of rotating gallery exhibitions, creative programming, and community initiatives.
Front Porch Gallery is a community service of Front Porch and shares a physical location with Carlsbad by the Sea.
What People Are Saying About Front Porch Gallery Programs!
“I enjoyed meeting new people and trying new things!”
“I can’t thank you enough on behalf of my mother for the paper flower making class. It was perfect for her. There are so few classes she is interested in or can participate in and she is extremely board. She and I are thrilled you will be offering something weekly.”
“I’m feeling encouraged to take out my art supplied at home and do something with them!”
“I really enjoyed hanging out with everyone.”
“Thank you for the excellent direction, encouragement and genuine concern for our creativity.”
“I’ve been in Carlsbad area over three years now and I want to keep up the creativity in my blood. Thank you for this group!”
Our History
Front Porch Gallery, which opened at its current location on April 2, 2005, is part of Front Porch, a nonprofit organization that supports senior living communities, affordable housing communities and programs and services nationwide. Front Porch communities in the San Diego area include Casa de Mañana, Wesley Palms, Fredericka Manor and Carlsbad By The Sea where the Front Porch Gallery is located.
Established with a generous grant from California Lutheran Homes, the original director, Steve Nossan, curated engaging exhibits until he retired in 2017 and Julie Weaverling took over and continued the excellent caliber of art exhibits. In 2023, Cathy Carey was appointed director. In addition to continuing the high quality exhibits, the mission of the gallery changed to accommodate creatively engaging programming and poetry as part of the shows.
Inspired by Ruth’s Table, its sister gallery in San Francisco, Front Porch Gallery continues to host invitational and juried exhibits of excellent art and poetry as well as offer free art classes that encourage creative engagements and social connections. The gallery places an emphasis on creating a space for adults over sixty and adults with learning differences.