The Matthews Opera House and Art Center is a nonprofit organization that features a gallery
and theater, providing a space for the arts to thrive. The theater presents a variety of shows,
including touring musicians, film festivals and theater productions. The gallery alternates between multiple exhibitions every year, hosting art pieces from community members and BHSU students.

The Matthews Opera House and Art Center has been a beacon of community and creativity since 1906, with events such as the annual “Festival in the Park,” as well as educational programs and art workshops. The Gallery contains a special collection of community exhibitions filled with the work of many local artists.

“It gives space to slow down and just look at things and experience them firsthand,” said Tia Erin, the Visual Arts Coordinator at The Matthews Opera House and Art Center. “Just to come here and sit with the artwork and see what the current generation of students are coming up with.”

The current exhibit being displayed in the gallery is “Art @ BHSU”, a display filled with artwork of a variety of media, all created by BHSU students, staff and faculty. The exhibit is currently open and will be displayed until Jan. 9, 2026. The exhibit is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

The gallery contains 72 works by 42 respective artists, ranging from paintings to sculptures.

“It really does showcase the broadness of the Fine Art department at BHSU,” Erin said. “It really shows through in here.”

The Matthews called out to all BHSU artists through posters, social media posts and by word of mouth within the classroom – presenting anyone on campus with the opportunity to have their work presented to the public and potentially purchased.

“I’m excited to have my artwork shown,” said Jesse Powers, a graphic design and photography student at BHSU. “I’m just thankful for this opportunity.”