A History of Cultural Arts

Newport Beach has a long history of appreciation and support for cultural arts events, education, and organizations. Highlights of the City’s long-standing support for the arts include the establishment of the Balboa Theatre in 1912, the same year that a City Hall was established, the founding of the Orange County Museum of Art in 1962 (previously the Newport Harbor Museum of Art) and the beginnings of South Coast Repertory on Newport Blvd. in 1964.  As Newport Beach has grown to be a burgeoning and sophisticated city, the role of arts and culture became even more prominent. In 1972, the City’s arts and cultural infrastructure was formally established with the birth of the Newport Beach Arts Committee. The group transitioned into the Newport Beach Arts Commission in 1974. Since then, the City has become home to numerous art galleries and cultural events, including: Newport Beach Film Festival, the Newport Beach Jazz Festival, the Southern California Children’s Chorus, Baroque Music Festival, and the Newport Beach Art Exhibition.

Newport Beach has also been home to many artists such as renowned painters Rex Brandt and Joan Irving Brandt, animator Chuck Jones, fashion icon Don Ed Hardy, writers Dean Koontz and Joseph Wambaugh, architect William Pereira, violinist Jascha Heifetz, “The King of Surf Guitar” Dick Dale, actors June Allyson, Joey Bishop, Ray Milland, John Wayne,Buddy Ebsen, Kelly McGillis and the legendary Helena Modjeska.

Cultural Arts in Newport Beach

The Cultural Arts Division of the Newport Beach Public Library, with guidance and support by the Newport Beach City Arts Commission, brings cultural and arts programming to the community. Cultural activities are ongoing throughout the year and include the coordination of revolving art and cultural exhibitions at Central Library, the Sculpture in Civic Center Park Exhibition, the annual Newport Beach Art Exhibition, Concerts on the Green, and a variety of arts lectures and special events.

2025 Events

SCULPTURE EXHIBITION IN CIVIC CENTER PARK

Phase VIII and IX are currently installed. Installation for the Phase X sculptures is scheduled for July 2026.

INAUGURAL NEWPORT BEACH ART WEEK

The City of Newport Beach is launching its first-ever Art Week, a celebration of creativity, culture, and community. From exhibitions to live performances to classes across the city, Newport Beach Art Week will spotlight the artistic talent and cultural energy that connects with our community. The 2026 Art Week will take place from Sunday, August 9, 2026, through Saturday, August 15, 2026. 

NEWPORT BEACH ART EXHIBITION 

The 59th Annual Newport Beach Art Exhibition will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026 from 12-5 p.m., Newport Beach Civic Green

STUDENT ART EXHIBITION

The 2026 Student Art Exhibition has not been scheduled yet. Stay tuned for updates! Exhibit will be at the Newport Beach Central Library (1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach, CA 92660).

CONCERTS ON THE GREEN

All concerts on the green will be held at the Newport Beach Civic Center (100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach 92660).

  • Sunday, July 19, 2026 from 6-7:30 p.m. featuring Redneck Rodeo
  • Sunday, August 9, 2026 from 6-7:30 p.m. featuring Pacific Symphony (Musical Playground begins at 5 p.m.)
  • Sunday, September 13, 2026 from 6-7:30 p.m. featuring Flashback Heart Attack

CONCERT AT MARINA PARK

The Marina Park Concert will take place at the Marina Park Community Center (1600 W. Balboa Blvd., Newport Beach 92663)

  • Sunday, October 11, 2026 from 4-5:30 p.m. featuring Diego's Garage

ART IN THE PARK

The 2026 Art in the Park will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, 10 a.m. - 5p.m., Newport Beach Civic Center
(Organized by the Newport Beach Arts Foundation)

CULTURAL ARTS GRANTS

FY 2026-27 Cultural Arts Grants will be announced at a future time. 

News Articles

Photo Gallery

Please email Newport Beach Cultural Arts office at arts@newportbeachca.gov for information or hi-res photos.

Press Contact:

  • Email: mnicklin@newportbeachca.gov
  • Phone: Maria Nicklin, Marketing Specialist (949) 717-3816
  • Mail: Newport Beach Public Library, 1000 Avocado Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92660

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