A Community of
Oakland, CA
Wild Alchemy
A fundraiser for East Bay Creative Lab
Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating the vibrant ecosystem of artists, young people, educators, and community partners who make this work possible. Set along the beautiful shores of Lake Merritt, this special evening features local flavor, incredible art, and a look at the powerful impact of our youth programs.
Wild Alchemy
A fundraiser for East Bay Creative Lab
Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating the vibrant ecosystem of artists, young people, educators, and community partners who make this work possible. Set along the beautiful shores of Lake Merritt, this special evening features local flavor, incredible art, and a look at the powerful impact of our youth programs.
Register Now!
About Us
Hands-on art and science center on the shores of Lake Merritt in Oakland.
Through classes, camps, and gallery exhibitions, we help artists, makers, and inventors of all ages build skills, explore big ideas, and connect with their creative side.
Creativity takes courage. It takes imagination, compassion, and curiosity, and we've built our entire program around developing all four. We bring art and science together to spark big ideas, build resilience, and show just how connected the two really are. And because we believe everyone deserves the chance to create, we're committed to making our programs accessible to families across Oakland and the East Bay.
Testimonials
Vera said she's not sure it could be better! Nice, small group, great location! She said it was really fun!
My child developed skills related to independence, problem-solving, and resilience... I absolutely love that the camp attracts a wide variety of kids different schools, ages, different racial backgrounds, etc. This contributes to my child's ability to relate to others and find commonalities across differences.
The new building and back to the Lake Merritt location is GREAT. Bill (Instructor) creates a perfect learning atmosphere.
It's been a great experience for us and Wes. Really like the end of the week art shows and all the different materials he was able to use.
He really found something that made him feel like he had knowledge and skills that his family and others don't have... His level of excitement and enthusiasm to return each and every day was surprising.
Although I'm an adult with no children, the Junior Center is still an incredible community resource! It is an excellent place to birdwatch, the staff are incredibly friendly, and it is always worth visiting Pepita the bearded dragon. I will be a frequent visitor for as long as I live in Oakland!
Awesome! Awesome! Awesome! Coming back during active hours. JCAS is fantastic place to learn and see amazing things and events in the SF Bay Area.
What a great community space. Thank you for hosting the Oakland unified school district art show was amazing. Such a beautiful space. We're lucky to have you.
This art center is an absolute joy and it's architecture and programming. The kids have wonderful experiences, but there are also adult events on weekends. A true Oakland gem.
This is a delightful little non profit art center on the shore of Lake Merritt. There's a play room, classrooms, art gallery, Library, animal Discovery room with live animals to experience. It's centrally located in Oakland with with reasonably good parking around. Highly recommend.
Attended birthday here. Great venue and fun activities for all kids including 1y olds.
The place is small but definitely has lots of activities, very attentive and very responsible, I loved it.
The Junior Center of Art and Science, a quaint and educational center for children. Love Gary the tortoise who roams the premises, all the lizards, snakes, fish and the little house/play area. Located just off the lake view great views. A fun morning out. The staff is sweet and informative.
Currently Showing
Wild Alchemy
September 26th, 2026, 6-9 PM
The Lab Art Sale is an inspiring evening celebrating the vibrant ecosystem of artists, young people, and community partners who make this work possible.
Wild Alchemy
September 26th, 2026, 6-9 PM
The Lab Art Sale is an inspiring evening celebrating the vibrant ecosystem of artists, young people, and community partners who make this work possible.
More to Explore
In-school Residencies
Bring 65 years of hands-on art, science, and Makerspace expertise straight into your classroom with custom-tailored residencies designed around your school's curriculum, timeline, and budget.
School Field Trips
Bring your class to the Junior Center (or have us come to you) for a hands-on workshop that pairs inquiry-led discussion with a guided making activity, all aligned to CA Common Core and Visual and Performing Arts standards.
Event Rentals
Host your next event at the Junior Center, with panoramic views of Lake Merritt and flexible room or whole-building rentals to fit any occasion.
Rent Our Space:
Latest News
Set Ups: An Installation in Flux
As children, Luka Vergoz and their brother used to make ‘set ups’ – worlds of animals, train tracks, cars, blocks, and people. These ‘set ups’ grew quickly, sprawling across the room, on the floor, and on the furniture. They didn’t know it at the time, but this was their introduction into landscape and installation… We…
Come See us on Saturdays!
Next time you’re walking around Lake Merritt, stop by and say hi to us! We are now open on Saturdays from 10am – 3pm Drop-in activities available! From water colors, to animal encounters, there is always a surprise waiting for you at the Junior Center! Saturdays at the LAB Be sure to check out the…
YOU’RE INVITED From Ashes to Art: Reopening Fundraiser
Saturday, Sept. 28 6pm at The Junior Center 558 Bellevue Ave The Junior Center has finally reopened after three years of extensive repairs from two fires. Join us on Saturday, September 28th at 6pm to celebrate our legacy and support our future programming. From Ashes to Art features a curated selection of art from local contemporary artists, all graciously donated and priced under…
6,000 Reasons to Give to Junior Center
At East Bay Creative Lab, we provide one-of-a-kind learning experiences for more than 6,000 students and families every year. Most of our students – more than 70% – get financial assistance from EBCL to be able to attend our classes and camps.