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Rancho Cordova Independent

Ri-Nu Imagination Launches Artist Studios

Aug 14, 2024 04:07PM ● By Rick Sloan, photos by Rick Sloan
Anu Aaltonen-Bond, with scissors, is joined by the studio artists and other local artists in the community before cutting the ceremonial ribbon.


RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - Twelve years ago, the City of Rancho Cordova curated its first art show at City Hall. Titled “Genesis,” the show marked the beginning of the contemporary visual art movement in Rancho Cordova. Since that day, the Rancho Cordova Arts (RCArts) was born.

RCArts’ mission was to make Rancho Cordova a more vibrant, artful place to live, work, play and grow. Five years ago, The Mills Station Art and Culture Center (The MACC) was established. Rancho Cordova was well on its way to living up to its goal of making the city a place where art and artists thrive.

Amy Lynn Torres mixed media studio

 Mixed media collage artist Amy Lynn Torres stands in her new studio space at Ri-Nu Studios in Lincoln Village.


There was only one element missing to complete their goal. That final element was artist studio space. On Thursday, Aug. 1, Ri-Nu Imagination Artist Studios at Lincoln Village celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. The event was hosted by the Rancho Cordova Chamber of Commerce.

Representatives from Assemblyman Josh Hoover and State Senator Roger Neillo presented certificates of recognition to Ri-Nu Imagination. They were also presented a proclamation from the City of Rancho Cordova and a gift basket for each studio artist by Explore Rancho Cordova.

Maria Pascoal graphic artist studio

 Graphic artist Maria Pascoal sits at her desk in her new studio space.


Ri-Nu Imagination Artist Studios at Lincoln Village feature seven studio spaces for local artists with a waiting list of six artists eager to join their creative community. The premiere artists who are on board are Amy Lynn Torres, CJ Einer, Jim Hunter, Nicole Haddad, Mary Teabo, Maria Pascoal and Lauren Hostetter.

Co-founded by Anu Aaltonen-Bond, Ri-Nu Imagination has been in the making for more than five years. Reflecting on her journey, Aaltonen-Bond said, “I am filled with gratitude for the support we’ve received and excitement for the future. Our goal is to continue fostering a vibrant, inclusive art community where creativity thrives and inspires.”

mixed media CJ Einer Ri-Nu Studios

 Mixed media artist CJ Einer stands in his new studio at Ri-Nu Studios.


Ri-Nu Imagination officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in August 2021, marking a significant milestone in its journey.  The organization received valuable support from the City of Rancho Cordova and the Chamber of Commerce. Their encouragement and backing has allowed Ri-Nu Imagination to grow and serve their community effectively.

Rancho Cordova Arts has also been a valuable ally, along with The MACC curator Cheryl Gleason. Both organizations have provided resources and connections that have furthered their mission. Ri-Nu Imagination continually seeks individual and corporate sponsors, whether on a monthly or yearly basis, to help sustain their community center and expand their future programs.

Looking forward, several exciting initiatives are planned beyond the monthly Third Saturday Open Studios. In 2025, workshops, podcasts and YouTube artist talks will be launched. Also planned are classes for residents of Rancho Cordova and the surrounding areas. Additionally, monthly art mixers showcasing different artists and themes, highlighting various aspects of the art world and providing fresh, engaging experiences for the community, will be featured.

Ri-Nu Imagination is governed by a diverse board that reflects the artist community that it serves. The board ensures that a variety of perspectives and voices are included in the decision-making processes. This diversity enriches the programs and strengthens the commitment to inclusivity and representation.

surrealist artist Jim Hunter

 Surrealist artist Jim Hunter stands next to one of his paintings in his new studio space.


“The journey of Ri-Nu Imagination has been a testament to the power of community and the transformative impact of art. We are committed to nurturing creativity and providing a platform for artists to share their work, engage with the public and inspire future generations. Our vision is to create a dynamic and supportive environment that celebrates artistic expression and enriches our community,” Aaltonen-Bond said.

Ri-Nu Imagination Artist Studios at Lincoln Village is located at 9719 Lincoln Village Drive, Suite 504, Rancho Cordova. For more information, call 916-524-0762 or email [email protected].