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The next time you attend a meeting in the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors Chambers, be sure to check out the rotating art on display! Sacramento County sponsors bi-annual art exhibitions in the Board Chambers, located at 700 “H" St. A Culture of Light and Color: The Transcendent Work of Stan Padilla is on display now through Jan. 14, 2026. Sacramento County invites the public to experience an immersive journey through culture, symbolism and visionary storytelling.
Rooted in the theme of an “Ancient Future,” Padilla’s work weaves together layers of Indigenous knowledge, spiritual reflection and luminous expression. A multimedia artist, cultural activist and educator, Padilla has spent more than five decades mentoring youth and creating works that reflect both personal and collective transformation. His new exhibition in the Board Chambers serves not only as a visual experience but as a spiritual and cultural offering to the community.
"As we witness and receive the gifts of our ancient ancestors, we have the opportunity to share these gifts with the world, bringing intention and joy to our Future," Padilla shares.
Currently based in the Sierra Foothills, Padilla continues to work as an Artistic and Cultural Mentor for the United Auburn Indian Community Tribal School in Loomis, California. His artistic philosophy is deeply influenced by his Chicano and Indigenous heritage, and his body of work reflects a lifelong commitment to healing, renewal and cultural education.
This exhibition was curated under the broader thematic umbrella of the Royal Chicano Air Force, a pioneering collective of Chicano artists, muralists and cultural activists founded in Sacramento. Chair of the Board, First District Supervisor and proud member of the Royal Chicano Air Force, Phil Serna, who helped select the theme, reflected on its importance:
“The Royal Chicano Air Force represents a powerful legacy of art as activism, rooted in Sacramento’s history. Stan Padilla’s work exemplifies that same spirit—his art uplifts community, culture, spiritualism and the stories of resilience and beauty that define us,” said Serna.
Padilla has historic ties to the RCAF movement and shares its commitment to using creative expression as a tool for education, advocacy and cultural celebration.
Visitors are welcome to view the art when meetings are in session. To check when the next meeting is scheduled, view the online Board Meeting Calendar.