Tilden Daken: The Art of Adventure (Jack London Park)

Submitted by the Event Organizer

Jack London Park Partners will host a special art exhibition, “Tilden Daken: The Art of Adventure,” in the House of Happy Walls Museum on April 20-June 23, 2024.

The exhibition, originated by the Museum of Sonoma County (MSC), will travel to Jack London State Historic Park (JLSHP) from Santa Rosa, where it is currently on display through March 31.

Famous in his time, Tilden Daken (1876-1935) was one of the most adventurous artists of California. Working in the early twentieth century as a California Impressionist, Daken’s life paralleled many of the important stories of California – from the gold fields to the growth of San Francisco and the rise of Hollywood, to the state’s connections across the southern border with Mexico.  Daken journeyed from the Sierras to the coast to trips far beyond California to paint.

Daken lived several places in California, including spending at least six years working in Sonoma County, living in Glen Ellen near famous author Jack London, whom he called a friend.

Known as “the Painter of the Valley of the Moon,” his paintings encapsulate many aspects of the state, from the area’s natural beauty to a mythos of self-creation and spirited adventure that reflects views of life in the West popular during Daken’s lifetime. This exhibition brings together many of his paintings, and the stories of his life, capturing insights into the history, artistry, and adventure of the Golden State and Sonoma County.

The show is supported and inspired by Tilden Daken’s granddaughter, Bonnie Portnoy, and the Jack London State Historic Park version will be curated by Jennifer Bethke, collections specialist at the Museum of Sonoma County.

This is the first time since the museum’s 2018 renovation that the House of Happy Walls has been used for such an exhibition.

“We are beyond excited to be partnering with MSC and our good friend and park supporter Bonnie Portnoy, with generous sponsorship by Lasseter Family Winery,” said Matt Leffert, executive director of Jack London State Historic Park/Jack London Park Partners.

Admission to the museum and exhibition is included in the park entry fee of $10 per vehicle (up to nine passengers).  The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  The House of Happy Walls Museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.   For more information, visit https://jacklondonpark.com/events/tilden-daken-exhibition-2024/.

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.