Bell Arts Factory
A dynamic hub for local artists, Bell Arts Factory offers open studios, vibrant events like First Friday, and a thriving creative community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Studios open, lively atmosphere
Bell Arts Factory
Best Time
Studios open, lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dynamic hub for local artists, Bell Arts Factory offers open studios, vibrant events like First Friday, and a thriving creative community.
"Many studios were open to the public on that evening. I am so glad I went there!"
🎯 First Friday Fun!
Don't miss the First Friday art walk (6-9 PM) for open studios and a vibrant community vibe.
🎨 Meet the Artists
Many studios are open, offering a great chance to chat with local artists and learn about their work.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artist Studios
Throughout the building
Explore diverse studios showcasing painting, pottery, sculpture, and more. Meet local artists and witness their creative process.
First Friday Art Walk
Bell Arts Factory
Experience a lively evening with open studios, live music, and local vendors. A must-visit for art lovers.
Community Room Exhibits
Community Room
Discover rotating exhibits and vendor pop-ups, often featuring unique crafts and art pieces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
First Friday Fun
Studio Access & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 First Friday Fun!
Don't miss the First Friday art walk (6-9 PM) for open studios and a vibrant community vibe. 
🎨 Meet the Artists
Many studios are open, offering a great chance to chat with local artists and learn about their work.
🎶 Live Music & DJs
Enjoy music performances and DJ sets, adding to the energetic atmosphere of events.
🛍️ Local Vendors
Browse unique crafts and art from local vendors, especially in the community room during events.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 First Friday Fun!
Don't miss the First Friday art walk (6-9 PM) for open studios and a vibrant community vibe.
🎨 Meet the Artists
Many studios are open, offering a great chance to chat with local artists and learn about their work.
🎶 Live Music & DJs
Enjoy music performances and DJ sets, adding to the energetic atmosphere of events.
🛍️ Local Vendors
Browse unique crafts and art from local vendors, especially in the community room during events.
✨ Special Exhibits
Keep an eye out for themed exhibits like Dia de Los Muertos, often held for fundraisers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bell Arts Factory for its vibrant First Friday events, diverse artist studios, and lively community atmosphere. Many appreciate the opportunity to meet artists and purchase unique artwork directly. Some note occasional closures or variable studio hours.
"I happen to have visited the Bell Arts Factory on their First Friday event. Many studios were open to the public on that evening. I talked to a few artists and one of them gave me a piece of art and the other connected me to another amazing human being biking from California to China. I am so glad I went there!"
Meiyi Universe
"The Bell Arts Factory was at one time a Matress factory ? It has been converted into variety of small studios used for the sole purpose of anything representing " Art " in it's most basic form ? From Pottery , Stained Glass , Painting , Pewter & Bronze Sculptures to Modern dance and Yoga classes ? My reason for my continued visits to Bell Arts ? Is because , I still work for Sharon who is the Director of the Buena Ventura Art gallery , which now has it's New location there , because the previous location was sold for a substantial profit ? I'm a paid part time employee who performs Maintenance and Painting when needed ? I'm helping the gallery to meet their dead-line for reopening their doors to the Public sometime in late August 2018 ?"
Scott Stebbings
"I always go there on Wednesdays with my cousin and her friend,it's very fun"
Stephanie Leyva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bell Arts Factory is located in Ventura, California. While specific public transport details can vary, it's generally accessible by car. Parking information might be available on their official channels or through local event guides.
Parking availability can depend on the event. For popular events like First Friday, street parking or nearby lots are common. It's advisable to arrive early or check local event advisories for the best parking options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General entry to Bell Arts Factory and many of its studios during regular hours or events like First Friday is often free. However, specific workshops or ticketed performances may require admission.
Studio hours can vary as artists manage their own spaces. The most consistent public access is during the First Friday art walk, typically from 6-9 PM. It's best to check their social media for specific event times.
While some studios might have individual closures, the venue may be closed on major holidays like Christmas Eve, as noted by one visitor. Always check their schedule for holiday hours. [^Review]
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
Bell Arts Factory is a diverse art space featuring painting, pottery, stained glass, sculptures, and more. You can find a wide range of artistic expressions from local creators. [^Review]
Yes, many artists open their studios during events like First Friday, allowing you to purchase artwork directly. It's a great way to support local talent.
Bell Arts Factory frequently hosts performances, DJ sets, and other cultural events, especially during First Friday. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements.
While not exclusively a makerspace, Bell Arts Factory provides studio spaces for artists and is a place where creative projects are actively worked on and shared, fitting the spirit of a makerspace for some.
The atmosphere is generally described as lively, creative, and community-oriented, especially during events like First Friday. It's a place for art enthusiasts and creators to connect. [^Review]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
During events like First Friday, you might find local vendors offering food and drinks. It's a good idea to check event details for specific offerings.
Bell Arts Factory is located in Ventura, which has a variety of dining options nearby. You can explore local restaurants before or after your visit. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, especially for personal use to capture the art and atmosphere. However, always be respectful of artists' privacy and their work. Some artists may have specific requests regarding photographing their pieces.
The vibrant art studios, unique sculptures, and the lively atmosphere during First Friday events offer many great photo opportunities. Look for colorful murals and interesting artistic details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider visiting on a less crowded day if you have very young children, or focus on specific studios that might be more kid-friendly. The general admission is often free, making it an accessible activity. Remember to supervise children closely and encourage them to be respectful of the artwork and artists' spaces. It's a chance for them to see creativity in action and perhaps even get inspired themselves!
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
This is an excellent venue to find unique pieces that aren't mass-produced. The opportunity to buy directly from the artist can lead to a more meaningful acquisition, often with a story behind the piece. Keep an eye out for special exhibits or themed shows, such as the Dia de Los Muertos nicho displays, which can offer particularly poignant and culturally rich artwork.
+1✨ Budget Travelers
+1While browsing is free, the real value for budget travelers comes from the opportunity to purchase affordable art directly from artists. You might find smaller prints, sketches, or unique crafts at accessible price points, allowing you to take home a meaningful souvenir without breaking the bank. It's a chance to support local artists directly and get more for your money compared to traditional galleries.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The First Friday Experience
Social media content frequently highlights the energetic vibe of First Friday, with creators sharing snippets of DJs spinning tunes and artists showcasing their latest pieces. It's a chance to experience the pulse of Ventura's art scene. Many visitors express joy in discovering new artists and finding unique pieces to take home, often mentioning the friendly interactions they have with the artists themselves.
+5Beyond the art, the community aspect is a significant draw. Redditors have mentioned Bell Arts Factory as a place to socialize and engage in creative projects, fitting the description of a makerspace for some. This sense of community is palpable during First Friday, where art lovers, artists, and neighbors come together to celebrate local culture. It's an event that truly embodies the spirit of collaboration and artistic expression.
A Hub for Ventura Artists
+1Many artists use their studios at Bell Arts Factory not just for creation but also as a place to connect with the public. Events like First Friday are crucial for this, allowing artists to showcase their work, discuss their techniques, and build relationships with collectors and art enthusiasts. This direct interaction is invaluable for artists, providing exposure and opportunities that might be harder to find elsewhere. Some artists even use their studio spaces for small exhibitions or to host private viewings.
+1The factory's history as a former mattress factory adds a unique layer to its current identity as an art space. The adaptive reuse of the building demonstrates a commitment to preserving industrial heritage while fostering contemporary artistic expression. This blend of old and new creates an inspiring backdrop for creativity, making Bell Arts Factory a distinctive landmark in Ventura's cultural landscape. [^Review]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit