Carmel Art 

When you arrive in Carmel, you are surrounded by art. Cobblestone walkways and colorful flower boxes framed by pines plus houses adorned with paintings such as hearts and birds inspire the senses to proclaim,  "Carmel is Art."   Imagine a community of 5,000 supporting over 50 art gallery businesses! That's one gallery per 100 people. The reason it works is the tourist trade. Visitors who come to Carmel are often repeat customers with money to spend on art.  

Stop by the nation's second oldest artist cooperative, Carmel Art Association.  Located on Dolores between 5th and 6th Streets, it is open daily from 10 am to 5 p.m., free admission. (831) 624-6176. 

The nonprofit showcase for some of California's great artists opened its doors back in 1927. Shows change monthly in a gallery which features over 120 artists. Some honored association members have included Percy Gray, Armin Hansen, William Ritschel, Paul Dougherty, Arthur Hill Gilbert, Howard E. Smith and the list goes on. On sale at the gallery are exhibit catalogues, some which are now collector's items. Original works which include paintings and sculptures in metal, glass and wood are sold with prices beginning under $100.