Bristlecone Gallery Presents ‘A Progressive Ensemble’ Featuring Artists from Art Explorers

Oct 10, 2025

Showcasing an array of mediums including painting, sculpture, fiber arts and mixed media, “A Progressive Ensemble” offers visitors a vibrant glimpse into the world of inclusive and expressive artmaking.

Showcasing an array of mediums including painting, sculpture, fiber arts and mixed media, “A Progressive Ensemble” offers visitors a vibrant glimpse into the world of inclusive and expressive artmaking.

Western Nevada College’s Bristlecone Art Gallery invites the community to experience “A Progressive Ensemble,” a compelling exhibition featuring the work of neurodivergent and physically disabled adult artists from Art Explorers Inc., a progressive art studio based in Fort Bragg, Calif.

Progressive art1Open now through the fall semester, the exhibition celebrates the power of creativity as a universal language — one that transcends boundaries, challenges convention, and reveals the depth of human expression.

Showcasing an array of mediums including painting, sculpture, fiber arts and mixed media, “A Progressive Ensemble” offers visitors a vibrant glimpse into the world of inclusive and expressive artmaking. Each piece reflects the mission of Art Explorers Inc.: to provide a fun, nurturing, and nonjudgmental environment where creativity can thrive without limits.

“We believe that creative thought and expression is a universal right — without rules, restrictions or cultural boundaries,” said representatives of Art Explorers Inc. “Art transforms lives, fosters connections and celebrates the deepest expressions of the human spirit.”

Founded in 1992, Art Explorers Inc. began at a dining room table and has since evolved into a full-time studio with more than 40 participating artists. Today, the organization hosts multiple exhibitions annually and has earned national recognition in publications and juried shows for its commitment to accessibility, community, and artistic excellence.

Western Nevada College President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe praised the exhibit as a reflection of the college’s mission to inspire and empower through the arts.

“WNC is honored to host this extraordinary exhibition that celebrates creativity in its purest form,” said Dr. Dalpe. “The artists of Art Explorers remind us that art has the power to connect people across experiences and perspectives. Their work embodies inclusion, courage and the transformative joy of self-expression — values that WNC proudly shares.”

A Progressive Ensemble is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, through Dec. 16 in the Bristlecone Art Gallery on WNC’s Carson City campus. Admission is free.

For more information about Western Nevada College’s art programs, visit wnc.edu or phone 775-445-4406.

Progressive art