Programs

The Foster Museum holds a variety of programs at 940 Commercial Street, Palo Alto, CA.
Advanced registration is required for most programs; see details on several unique programs below.

Tony Foster at The Foster Museum in April

Q&A with Tony Foster and Executive Director Bianca Patel

Wednesday, April 8, 6:30-8:00pm, Free Admission
Doors Open: 6pm

Join artist Tony Foster and Executive Director Bianca Patel for an intimate conversation exploring the landscapes and experiences that shape Foster’s work.

They’ll reflect on the evolution of his Journeys, his deep ties to the Bay Area ahead of a 2027 exhibition reuniting artworks from an early Journey on the John Muir Trail, and the creative process behind a decades-long practice rooted in close observation of the natural world.

Blending personal stories with reflections on art, place, and exploration, this evening offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from an artist whose work invites us to look more closely at the environments around us.

Painting the Concept of Time, an illustrated talk by Tony Foster

Monday, April 13, 6:30-8:00pm, Free Admission
Doors Open: 6pm

CURRENTLY SOLD OUT
Please check back a few days before the event for cancellations.

Tony Foster's work on his 19th Journey, Exploring Time: A Painter's Perspective, was begun in 2007 and completed only last year. Exploring Time is a reflection on the forces of nature and change, from the earliest convulsions which formed our planet to brief moments in the weather. Learn of Foster's experiences painting en plein air in six different countries for this Journey as he regales us with entertaining stories and leaves us inspired by his dedication and passion for his work, and most of all for our fragile planet.

After opening at the Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery and traveling to Royal Watercolour Society’s RWS Gallery in London, this Journey is commencing its U.S. tour at the Dayton Art Institute in Ohio (February 21 through May 17, 2026).

Nature Journaling: Explore, Express, Connect!

NEW SEASONAL SERies LED BY KATE RUTTER

Spring Series: Mar 8, Mar 15
Summer Series: May 17, Jun 14
Fall Series: Aug 23, Sep 27
Winter Series: Nov 15, Dec 13

The focus of this series is on visually expressing curiosity about what we observe, rather than creating polished botanical art. In all sessions, Kate will be available for questions and individual instruction during field journaling time. All skill levels are welcome; "art" is in the experience itself.

English Spring Flowers

NEW 4-WEEK ART Series Led by AGNES WONG

April 1 , 8, 15, 22
Wednesdays from 1:00 - 3:00pm

Celebrate the beauty of flowers found in many of Tony Foster's watercolors painted en plein air, and those found in typical springtime English gardens as well as our own.

As color is the main element here, after a step-by-step study of the flowers each week, we will use colored pencils or watercolors for the final exercises.

Storytime with Anna!

SELECT SUNDAYS EVERY month
10:30 - 11:30am
Free admission

Upcoming Dates:
Sundays: Mar 22, Apr 5, Apr 19, May 10

Join us for an hour adventure led by Anna! We'll start with arts-and-crafts activity and imaginative play, then review the museum rules. Enjoy some movement and song, explore the galleries, and settle in for a short nature-themed story. Wrap up with a scavenger hunt or creative time at our art tables.

We’re excited to welcome families to Storytime at The Foster Museum. While this program is open to all, it’s especially designed for little ones aged six and under.

Art Making at The Foster Museum

One Thursday per month
1:00 - 4:00pm
Free admission, tea service provided

Upcoming Dates:
Thursdays: Mar 19, Apr 23, May 14

All skill levels are welcome to find inspiration from Tony Foster's watercolor wilderness Journeys within the galleries. Bring your own art supplies, such as graphite pencils or watercolor sets, nature journals or sketch pads, or borrow our colored pencil provisions. Spend time in our meditative galleries, looking closely at Foster's masterpieces and making your own! Tables, seating, and tea service are provided!

Advance registration is suggested; walk-ins are welcome.