Ron lifting the Shiny Object sign overhead

WELCOME

Shiny Object is an inclusive, one-room art space in Morro Bay, CA, where creative communities connect and thrive. We opened this Third Place to provide a place for contemporary art and creative expression. Whether it’s live performances, maker workshops, life drawing, or textile arts, all are welcome here to do their things.

Garde Rail Gallery Exhibition:
“The Folk Life” Opens May 16

Garde Rail Gallery marks its 27th anniversary with a retrospective exhibition, “The Folk Life”, honoring the artists it has represented over the years. The show will open at Shiny Object Studio on May 16th, followed by a curator’s talk at 4 PM on May 17th, 2025. Garde Rail Gallery specialises in contemporary, self-taught, and outsider artists. More info.

LISTENING ROOM

Music matters to us. And we’re proud to feature a classy sound system provided by our good friends at Jan’s Place Vinyl Bar. This system features a full vinyl listening experience, allowing visitors to experience and share music with others.

LIVE EVENTS

So far we have hosted DJ workshops, book clubs, sewing circles, Singer/Songwriters, film screenings, and more. I invite you to help us fill in the blanks of what’s possible here.

The best way to keep up with the gallery is to follow on Instagram, where we have a lot of fun posting daily.

PROJECTS

In our 23rd year as a creative studio, here are some projects.

  • SXSW – 15 years of programming and producing all-ages live music and cultural events. (List of artists coming soon)
  • Featured Studio, EAST and WEST Austin Studio Tour
    • + WORDS DAY – A day of workshops celebrating The Power of Words and Communication Through Art and Community
    • + REUSE DAY – A Weekend Faire of workshops and learning around Creative Reuse. The event showcased artists and DIY projects using sustainable practices and materials.
  • Maker Faire Austin – Art Party
    Community-wide learning and a pop-up party for those interested in the visual arts.
  • Texas BookFest Pop-Up Future Lab
    We created a Kids and Parents Lounge for a partner in education funding. While parents learned about college savings options, kids drew pictures, read books, and held a poetry slam.