The Whittier Art Gallery celebrated its 75 anniversary of the beautiful, yet hidden gallery with a birthday party on Oct. 11.

The reception was held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and was free for everyone to enjoy.

“Celebrate” is the current ongoing exhibition at the Whittier Art Gallery and will be on display until Nov 1. The exhibition celebrates the 75 years of commitment by the gallery and its rich history.

There were art pieces ranging from oil paintings, 3D art, jewelry, photography, and carved wood. All artists whose work was show were available for questions and insight during the duration of the reception.

The gallery had a wonderful spread of refreshments and appetizers. Wine, water, and juice were available as well as cheese, grapes, crackers, and cake.

Guests attended the reception from all areas to enjoy the art and celebrate the special anniversary of the historic gallery with the people who have made a huge impact on the gallery itself.

The Whittier Art Association opened the Whittier Art Gallery in April of 1939.

When it first opened, the gallery instantly attracted many artists and received high praise.

Los Angeles Times art critic Arthur Miller wrote, “Whittier has the Southlands best designed, best equipped small public art center. Whittier has shown Southern California the way.”

Located in a residential area between a school and an office building on Painter Avenue, many people don’t realize it’s an art gallery until actually walking into the building due to the gallery blending in with the homes surrounding it.

Artists from the local community display their art work in the gallery along with artists from surrounding California cities such as Laguna Beach, Pasadena, and Los Angeles.

The gallery has had its share of rich history as artists such as Disney’s animator Art Landy, Norman Rockwell, Sam Hyde Harris have all exhibited their work in the gallery. Landy also became the gallery president in 1948.

Current president of the gallery Vicki Schramm, is an artist herself, and enjoys drawing, painting, and interacting with other artists at the gallery.

Schramm said, “We would just love to see this survive for many more decades.”