PLACERVILLE, Calif. — The Placerville Arts Association, the oldest nonprofit visual arts organization in El Dorado County, is seeking a volunteer chairperson to lead the National Mother Lode Art Exhibition beginning in 2027.
The position will oversee planning and coordination of the nationally recognized exhibition, which celebrates its 60th year in 2026 and draws artists from across the United States. Association leaders say the transition is well-supported, with systems already in place.
“You would not be starting from scratch,” said Su Wickersham, editor for the Placerville Arts Association. “We have the gallery reserved, the connections established, and an instruction binder that walks through the entire process. What we need now is someone to manage and guide it forward.”
According to the association, the incoming chairperson will receive hands-on support from the former chairperson, a co-chair, and a dedicated team of volunteers. Responsibilities include coordinating timelines, communicating with artists and jurors, and overseeing exhibition logistics.
Founded in the early 1960s, the Placerville Arts Association has remained in continuous operation for more than six decades. Its mission focuses on promoting visual arts through exhibitions, educational programming, and community outreach throughout El Dorado County.
In addition to the Mother Lode National Art Exhibition, the association sponsors several major annual events, including the popular PAA Studio Tour each fall, two judged membership exhibitions at the El Dorado County Government Center, and regular outdoor “paint outs” at local scenic locations.
The association holds monthly general meetings—typically on the third Monday of each month from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.—at the Placerville Senior Center, 937 Spring St. Board meetings are held on the first Friday of each month at the same location.
Membership in the Placerville Arts Association is open to artists and art patrons, with annual dues set at $35 for individuals and $60 for couples. Benefits include newsletters, reduced workshop fees, eligibility for member-only shows, and participation in the annual Studio Tour.
Those interested in the exhibition chairperson position, or seeking additional information, are encouraged to contact Su Wickersham at editor@placervillearts.com.
