California Rice Commission: Second Saturday Exhibit and Artist Reception

Capital Public Radio (CPR) presents the California Rice Commission as part of its rotating Second Saturday art exhibit.

More than 100 years ago, the first commercial rice fields were planted in Northern California. From humble beginnings, family farmers in the Sacramento Valley now account for 97 percent of California’s rice production and virtually all of America’s sushi rice.

Rice fields also provide vital environmental benefits, including habitat for nearly 230 wildlife species, providing food and a resting place for millions of ducks, geese, and other birds of the Pacific Flyway.

To capture the beauty and vitality of this industry, the California Rice Commission annually commissions original artwork. From the first painting by Gregory Kondos (“California Rice Fields,” 2006) to René C. Reyes’ depiction of dancing Sandhill Cranes (“Elegance,” 2016), it’s CPR’s pleasure to share this unique part of California.