Santa Cruz Guitar Company: The First 50 Years

An exhibit highlighting 50 years of Santa Cruz Guitar Company's history and impact.

Artboard 1

June 18-October 4, 2026

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Art Forum Gallery
3rd Floor

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An exhibit highlighting 50 years of Santa Cruz Guitar Company's history and impact.

Founded in 1976 by Richard Hoover, the Santa Cruz Guitar Company brought boutique guitar making to the forefront of the steel string guitar business. In his unassuming Santa Cruz shop, Hoover and his team of dedicated guitar making craftspeople--luthiers--continue the powerful and melodic legacy committed to sustainability of materials. Each guitar is a love note to its eventual owner and this area, inspiring other musicians and luthiers.


Photo credit: Richard Hoover Santa Cruz Guitar Co circa 1976 Courtesy of Santa Cruz Guitar Company

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