One artist is looking to bring a bit of fun and relaxation to Bakersfield through her downtown cafe. Sculptor Juliana Bernier-Dooley, is bringing new life into her gallery-turned-restaurant by opening Juliana’s Art Cafe.

Juliana’s Art Cafe is located in the growing downtown area on 18th Street, within walking distance of Mill Creek Park. It is open from 7:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Monday through Friday, and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The cafe recently celebrated its grand opening on July 21, but celebration doesn’t stop there. There are many new and exciting things that Bernier-Dooley is looking to bring to the cafe.

Bernier-Dooley has created a space that she hopes will serve the mind, body and soul. She plans on doing this through the art displayed in the cafe, the serene gardens and the healthy eating and drinking options that they are offering.

The cafe is self-serve for the time being, but this isn’t to say that the possibility for more isn’t there. The coolers are stocked with wraps, salads and fruit cups. There are also the croissants, cinnamon rolls, assorted pastries and protein shakes, as well. As far as drinks, count on espresso, frozen yogurt, Aloe Gloe and coconut water, to name a few.

Bernier-Dooley has plans to bring in more art, featuring one artist at a time, for three months at a time. Their work would be displayed in the cafe along with sculptures and stained glass work done by Bernier-Dooley. Although there are no set shows at this time, it’s something that’s in the works.
Not only does the cafe feature artwork of the visual type but that of the audio type. Starting in September, the cafe will host a concert. The band has not been finalized but details will be available when it is set in stone.

Juliana’s Art Cafe will also offer a healing workshop hosted by a doctor from Northern California. Bernier-Dooley hopes that this will be an option in September as well.

For more information on cafe, gallery, classes and events, visit julianasartstudiogallery.com. Also look for them on Facebook and Twitter.