Eames Institute: Crafting Curiosity: Advancing a Legacy of Agriculture and Making at theEames Ranch 

Introducing Our New Exhibition

On view January 22—February 21, 2026, at Petaluma Arts Center, 

Crafting CuriosityAdvancing a Legacy of Agriculture and Making at the
Eames Ranch 

presents work from the inaugural Ranch Studios Artist Residency in Petaluma’s San Antonio Valley. The exhibition and residency carry forward a long tradition of agriculture and making at the Eames Ranch, shaped by Lucia Eames and her daughter Llisa Demetrios, both artists whose daily lives on the property integrated creative practice, stewardship, and experimentation. The residency is informed not only by Petaluma’s agricultural roots but also by its broader culture of creativity and community of makers. Drawing inspiration from the Eames Archives and supported by research resources from William Stout Architectural Books, each artist developed responses to the visual, physical, and social questions that guide their practice. 

The resulting work reflects the philosophy of Ray and Charles Eames, whose legacy demonstrates that inquiry, problem-solving, and play are powerful tools for learning, creating, and positively shaping the world around us. This exhibition celebrates not only what was made, but also how it was made: through curiosity, shared learning, and a belief in the generative possibilities that arise when we work together.Learn More
Meet the Artists

Drawing materials and inspiration from San Antonio Valley’s agricultural land and natural environment, the 12 residents worked across disciplines including ceramics, fiber, metal, and wood. Individually and collectively, the artists advanced the visual, physical, and social dimensions of their work.

Artists include:Windy ChienRie and Jay Dion
Chris KallmyerTravis Meinolf
Masako Miki
Yvonne Mouser
Kristen Stain
Nobuto Suga and Amy Rathbone
Pierre Gorgui Thiam
Lena Wolff

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Upcoming Events

Opening Reception at Petaluma Arts CenterJoin us for the opening reception to celebrate Crafting Curiosity. This event will be open to the public from 5:30 -7:30 pm at Petaluma Arts Center. Beer, wine, and non-alcoholic refreshments will be served.

RSVP now
Botanical Ink Making with Lena WolffExplore natural ink and paint making with Ranch Studios artist and craftswoman, Lena Wolff.

Get tickets Panel Discussion: “Material Innovation and Agricultural Space”

Join Ranch Studios Artist Residents and the Eames Institute of Infinite Curiosity’s Farm Manager for a rich conversationabout process, material, and design in this unique environment.

Get tickets
Stay Connected on Instagram Hear our latest exhibitions, events, news, and stories on Instagram.Learn more
An illustrated heart, animating through different colors, based on one found in a birthday letter from Ray Eames to Llisa Demetrios©2026 Eames Institute
“Eames” is used by permission and under license from Eames Office, LLC

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