By Andy Nguyen
By Andy NguyenArt Break Day is an annual, worldwide event on the first Friday of September where free pop-up art-making stations appear in public spaces, encouraging people to take a pause in life, create astonishing art for free, and connect with their communities.
Art-Lasting Impact in Stockton
World Art Break Day was founded in 2011, with 2013 being the 1st time it was celebrated in Stockton. Hosted by Joy Neas, the event has landscaped this great city with its various locations throughout the years.
It was 1st celebrated at Victory Park in 2013 and since then has been hosted at different locations throughout the Stockton, many of which have been in or near Downtown – the Children’s Museum in 2016, The Cesar Chavez Central Library in 2018, Courthouse Plaza in 2024, and finally this year at The Mexican Heritage Center.
A Day Full of Arts & Crafts
Those who came to celebrate this worldwide event at The Mexican Heritage Center were greeted by Stockton Artists Joy Neas and JoAnn Sagaral with endless amounts of FREE art supplies and tables ready for anyone to create the art to their heart’s desire.
Individuals had the opportunity to create art that meant the world to them, something Neas believes is the beauty of life, “Art is the best part of life. It gives fulfillment and peace.”
Maintaining Tradition
Art Break Day is an annual, worldwide event that encourages people to take a pause, create art for free, and connect with their communities. Downtown Stockton continues its legacy in honoring this event and many more to come.
Check out our Instagram post about the event here.
Information
Art Break Day: September 6th, 2025, and the 1st Friday in September every year
This year’s location was: Mexican Heritage Center & Gallery, 111 S. Sutter Street, Stockton, CA
Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00AM – 2:00PM
Instagram: @mexicanheritagecenter
Facebook: @mexicanheritagecenter
Artist: Joy Neas @stocktonartist