About the Harold J. Miossi Art Gallery
The Harold J. Miossi Art Gallery at Cuesta College is a dynamic exhibition space committed to "furthering the conversation" by showcasing contemporary art that is engaging, thought-provoking, and accessible to the public. The gallery is a part of the Fine Arts and Performing Arts Complex on the San Luis Obispo campus of Cuesta College. It features a rotating schedule of unique solo and group exhibitions, student-juried shows, performance projects, and community-focused programs.
The gallery's activities connect classroom learning through a real-world curatorial practice. Students have the opportunity to engage in exhibition installation, public programs, and professional development. Meanwhile, the wider community benefits from free admission and regularly scheduled public events.
A Brief History
Cuesta College Art Gallery
The Cuesta College Art Gallery has its origins in the college's commitment to arts education. For many years, the college operated an active campus gallery program that served both as a teaching laboratory for students and as a valuable resource for the San Luis Obispo County arts community. The gallery showcased a diverse array of works by student artists and regional, national, and international creators. It built a reputation for its innovative contemporary programming, which not only supported classroom learning but also encouraged community engagement.
Partnership and support from the Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust
The Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust has played a crucial role in supporting the gallery's growth and visibility. In 2014, the Trust awarded a significant grant to Cuesta College, which helped enhance the gallery's programs by funding expanded exhibition offerings and facility improvements. In 2018, the Trust made a substantial $1.5 million gift to bolster Cuesta's arts infrastructure. This generous donation led to the renaming of the campus's Cultural and Performing Arts Center. Further, it strengthened the Trust's connection to Cuesta's visual and performing arts initiatives. As a testament to this ongoing partnership, the campus gallery has been officially named the Harold J. Miossi Art Gallery, reflecting the Trust's long-term commitment to arts education and public access to contemporary art on the Central Coast.
The Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust
Mission & Impact
The Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust supports cultural and educational institutions throughout the Central Coast and beyond. The Trust's philanthropy has facilitated gallery naming, program support, student-focused initiatives, and the development of new public programs at Cuesta College. Funding from the Trust aims to expand the gallery's exhibition schedule, support curriculum connections, and create opportunities such as public talks, residencies, and digital/VR access programs that make contemporary art more accessible to students and the wider Community.
Gallery Leadership (Past & Present)
The Cuesta College Art Gallery
Before becoming the Harold J. Miossi Art Gallery, the Cuesta College Art Gallery was overseen by a combination of Directors and Fine Arts Department faculty members. Many instructors, curators, and directors contributed to the gallery's development during this time, with several playing notable roles.
This faculty-driven stewardship, supported by additional instructors, staff, and students over the years, laid the groundwork for the gallery's evolution into the professional contemporary art venue it is today.
Contemporary Gallery Leadership
Timothy Stark — (2021-Present)
Timothy (Tim) Stark, the Curator of the Harold J. Miossi Art Gallery, is dedicated to advancing the gallery's mission by fostering collaboration and creating a comprehensive program that engages both students and the public through exhibitions, education, and public art. He aims to encourage cross-disciplinary engagement and promote a deeper, more diverse understanding of culture. He strives to provide a unique and welcoming environment where visitors can explore and experience art within a supportive community.
As an artist himself, Stark offers a unique perspective on the gallery's programming, often collaborating with other artists on exhibitions that challenge conventional narratives. He places a strong emphasis on highlighting underrepresented artists, ensuring a showcase for diverse voices and viewpoints. His curatorial efforts prioritize student engagement, community collaboration, and public programming, all aimed at enhancing the gallery's impact both regionally and nationally.
Education, Community & Public Programs
The Harold J. Miossi Art Gallery is dedicated to hosting temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, showcasing innovative and thought-provoking works from both national and international artists. Our mission is to foster collaboration and create a comprehensive program that engages students and the public through exhibitions, educational opportunities, and public art initiatives. We aim to encourage cross-disciplinary engagement and promote a deeper, more diverse understanding of culture. Our goal is to provide a unique and welcoming environment where visitors can explore and experience art within a supportive community.
Visiting & Contact Information
The Harold J. Miossi Art Gallery is located on Cuesta College's San Luis Obispo campus (Room 7170), specifically within the courtyard of the Cultural and Performing Arts Center. You can find regular hours and event schedules online. Admission to the gallery is free, and parking is complimentary during gallery events. For the latest exhibition schedule, public program listings, or to arrange a class visit, please get in touch with the gallery directly.