MIDDLETOWN, Calif. – Lake County residents and visitors have been seeing themselves differently these last few weeks, so how better to add to the conversation than showcasing ourselves to ourselves through portraiture.

Portraits can be more than rendered attributes. A portrait can provide insight into the subject, the artist, or something within us all.

“Portraits,” a new exhibit, opens Friday, Oct. 30, with a reception from 6 to 8 p.m., and will be on view until Dec. 6 at the Middletown Art Center, or MAC, 21456 State Highway 175 in Middletown.

A wide array of artists will showcase works in many mediums from oil to pastel to wood to plaster.

Openings at MAC are well attended and highlight an evening of art, music and community. MAC also showcases other vibrant cultural events.

Slowly recovering normalcy, MAC has been offering free or subsidized art classes to express and release the fire experience and engage with community.

During these trying times, the MAC has proven itself to be a considerable asset, hosting important meetings and providing support during this time of crisis.

Donations are needed to help support artists who lost their homes and studios and continue subsidizing MAC’s nonprofit work, which includes the underserved members of our community.

Donations of funds and art, ceramics, jewelry, tools and other related supplies are graciously accepted.

Middletown Art Center offers an array of memberships and art making opportunities, and can accept donations, memberships and class registrations online at www.MiddletownArtCenter.org .

Located at the junction of Highways 29 and 175 in Middletown, the old Middletown Gymnasium welcomes residents and visitors inside once again.

The building has been transformed into a beautiful space for contemporary art and performance events.

The back portion of the building serves as a studio where classes in drawing, painting, ceramics, and more, are offered for children, teens and adults.

Check class offerings at www.MiddletownArtCenter.org/classes.html .

MAC is open Friday and Saturday, noon to 6 p.m., and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. or by appointment.

For more information call 707-809-8118 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .