Art

Orinda Books Artist Art

Orinda Books Artist of the Month for December is Paul Kratter. His popular plein air paintings embody the light, atmosphere, and emotion that only an accomplished artist can convey. Paul's illustration background instills strong drawing and design skills and a robust belief in graphic shapes and storytelling, and he finishes paintings on location to keep a fresh, spontaneous feel. For a preview, visit www.orindabooks.com

"Stories on Canvas,” an exhibit of evocative acrylic paintings, opens the Moraga Art Gallery's 2024 season on Jan. 3. Acrylic painter Kath Balamuth endows everyday objects. Jill Landau uses oil paint to capture everyday moments in time. Also, guest artist Karen Mason offers works that stretch the definition of "paintings." The gallery invites the public to a free reception on Saturday afternoon, Jan. 27 from 3 to 5 p.m. (note new time). All are invited to view the art, meet the gallery's eighteen members and several guest artists, enjoy a selection of light snacks and wine, all accompanied by the tasteful music suited to the gallery's congenial ambiance. 432 Center Street in the Moraga Shopping Center, open from noon to 5 p.m. daily until Christmas, then Wednesday to Sunday, www.moragaartgallery.com or call (925)376-5407.

The Lamorinda Arts Council presents handmade prints from members of the Diablo Valley Printmakers during December in the Art Gallery at the Orinda Library. All eight members showing work are also members of the California Society of Printmakers. View this diverse show by artists devoted to handmade prints at a reception in their honor while enjoying light refreshments on Saturday, Dec. 16 from 3 to 5 p.m. The exhibit runs through Dec. 30. View their art at https://lamorindaarts.org/current-exhibits/ or call (925) 359-9940 with questions

The Lamorinda Arts Council presents artwork and poetry with a focus on romance by Shiva Jafarzadeh in the Art Gallery at Wilder during December. Jafarzadeh is a longtime Lafayette resident who has authored several children’s books. Her drawings and paintings focus on womanhood, romance, motherhood, children and memories of growing up in Iran. Her virtual exhibit runs from Dec. 2 to Jan. 2. View her work online at https://lamorindaarts.org/current-exhibits-wilder/ or call (925) 359-9940 with questions.

Music

Berkeley Chamber Performances is excited to present the Black Oak Ensemble on Saturday, Jan. 27 at 7:30 p.m at the Lafayette Library. Praised for its “insightful, committed and masterful performances” (Classics Today 10/10) and “fierce eloquence” (London Times), the Black Oak Ensemble is one of the most innovative and exciting chamber ensembles on the international stage. This concert will feature works from Black Oak's record "Silenced Voices" (Cedille Records), dedicated to Jewish composers, most of whom lost their lives during the Holocaust. Tickets at: www.tickettailor.com/events/berkeleychamberperformances/992925

Theatre

Warnings Before Breakfast, by Eugene O'Neill, adapted and directed by Eric Fraisher Hayes is showing on Jan. 12, 13, and 14 at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave, Danville. Tickets $25. https://eugeneoneill.org/event/oneills-warnings-and-before-breakfast/

Other

Free income tax preparation for the 2023 tax season will again be offered by the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program, providing IRS certified tax counselors for local Contra Costa County residents. Service is offered to people of all ages with limited to moderate income with special attention given to those age 50 and older. Beginning in early January, call one of the site-specific appointment phone numbers listed below to make an appointment, or call (925) 726-3199 for general information about the Tax-Aide program. The tax preparation service locations: Concord Library (925) 471-5686; Concord Senior Center (925) 671-3320; Danville Veterans Memorial Bldg. of SRV (925) 272-0902; Martinez Senior Center (925) 370-8770; Pacheco Community Center (925) 709-4525; Pleasant Hill Hillcrest Congregational Church (925) 289-9790; San Ramon Senior Center (925) 973-3250; Walnut Creek – Rossmoor, Hillside Clubhouse, Vista Room Appointments made on-site.