by Radha Rajagopal Sloss
2nd edition published August 2006
Price: $20.00 (plus tax and shipping)
Books available for purchase at the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts.
To place your order by phone,
please call (805) 646-3381,
or e-mail us at hvfmail@west.net.
Visit the Happy Valley Foundation website |
|

The history of the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts is largely the story of Happy Valley. When Annie Besant, a supporter of progressive movements, from female suffrage to Indian independence, first saw the land which is now called Happy Valley, she envisioned that it would be a center for people who would usher in a new world. Besant’s vision contributed to Ojai’s development during the 20th century as a spiritual center and art community.

Beatrice Wood moved to Ojai in 1947 and was an important part of its fledgling art community. Today, Ojai enjoys its reputation as an art center, with many talented artists residing there.
The Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts fulfills much of Annie Besant's original vision, as a place where arts and education are paramount. It is closely affiliated to the Besant Hill School (formerly the Happy Valley School) that will benefit from and contribute to its activities.

"Double Rainbow Over Besant Hill School"
Photo by Janat Dundas
Aside from a regular exhibition schedule, there are artist workshops and performances. The Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts presents a continuum joining the artists, writers and others who shaped Happy Valley and the Happy Valley School (now called the Besant Hill School) and those who are working today, as well as a bridge between the International Art World and the local community.

Beatrice Wood is both the heart and inspiration for the Center. To read her biography, click here.

"Snow on Topa Topa"
Photo by Janat Dundas
|