Art towns: Going by the book
John Villani was in Chico last week to promote his new book “Art Towns California.” He signed books at Lyon Books and Barnes & Noble.
Chico is one of the more than two dozen cities he writes about. So is Redding, the only pick I don’t agree with it.
This is the third time he’s written about Chico. Villani also has chapters about Chico in the 2002 and 2005 editions of “Best Art Towns in America.”
Villani said since he started writing his art town books in 1994 he's observed that business communities have become far more appreciative of the role the arts can play in revitalizing downtowns. He said Ventura began transforming itself once it hitched its wagon to the arts. He’s especially excited by an affordable live-work space for artists that will soon open in downtown Ventura.
He said one of the best examples of how a college town can help an art town develop is the presence of First Street Gallery in downtown Eureka, which Humboldt State University, located in Arcata, operates.
Villani’s appearance came during Chico’s observance of Artoberfest. At the Lyon book-signing event, Debra Lucero, executive director of Friends of the Arts, said Villani suggested that Chico organize an arts festival the first time he visited here in 2001.
Heather Lyon, who owns Lyon Books, noted the prolific output of Chico’s literary artists. She said her store carries dozens of titles by local writers. Noting the link between tourism, a thriving arts community and distinctive businesses, she talked about a new organization, called Think Local, Chico, an alliance of independent, locally owned businesses, service providers, community organizations and individuals. One of its missions is to promote Chico’s unique identity and quality of life.
At the signing and in the book, Villani praised the Chico Art Center for its range of exhibitions, classes and activities. In his book, he takes note of Empire Tea and Coffee, a coffeehouse in a converted train car next to the Art Center. The business is privately owned, but the train car is leased from the Art Center.
Villani opens his chapter on Chico by writing, “This progressive town bordering the Sierra Nevada foothills has defined itself as an arts-supportive environment celebrating all facets of creativity. In Chico the combined impacts of innovative arts events, inspired art exhibitions, affordable performances and open-minded networks of creative field professionals have enhanced the quality of life.”
Great stuff. It’s nice to be noticed.
As I’ve said before when I’ve talked about cultural tourism, I don’t want Chico to become Carmel, Mendocino or Nevada City, all three of which are in Villani’s latest book. These towns cater primarily to tourists. It would be a shame if downtown Chico were to cease to be a place where locals and Chico State University students gather.
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