The Santa Monica College (SMC) Emeritus Art Gallery will host the SMC Emeritus Annual Student Art Exhibition 2026 – Part 1 from May 14 to June 19, with a free opening reception on May 14 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The exhibition features works by 47 student artists from SMC's noncredit Emeritus program for older adults, which was founded in 1975 and serves over 3,000 students annually. Due to high participation, the exhibition is split into two parts, with Part 1 displayed in the gallery and Part 2 opening online on June 11.
This exhibition matters because it highlights the creative output and lifelong learning opportunities for older adults through a community college program, showcasing the value of arts education beyond traditional academic tracks. The event underscores the growing popularity of senior-focused art programs and provides a platform for older artists to share their work with the public, fostering intergenerational appreciation and community engagement in the visual arts.