ArtWalk

The annual two-day ArtWalk event is a culmination of a year-long celebration of art of all kinds. ArtWalk’s central mission is to provide an opportunity for San Diegans to experience visual and performing arts in a festive outdoor setting offered free of charge to attendees. ManySouthern Californianshave never considered original art as being within their reach. By removing the “intimidation” factor of a gallery setting, attendees get to meet the artists, learn what inspired them, and to support the art community.

Outreach to children is a key focus. Projects such as the Fairy Tale mural project forSan Diegoarea schools are offered each year. The ArtWalk KidsWalk program is a very important part of the annual festival. Interactive art activities for children are orchestrated in this park-like setting by local arts groups such as the San Diego Museum of Art, ArtsBusXpress and even Scripps Institution of Oceanography. ManySan Diegochildren often do not have the opportunity to participate in art programs in their schools. ArtWalk helps to fulfill this void by making art accessible and fun!

Performing arts are also an important part of this celebration. Dance groups such as Eveoke, Malashock, Patricia Rincon Dance Collective, and children’s dance groups are all part of the ArtWalk experience. The ultimate goal is to bring together many arts groups inSan Diegoeach year, and we have been successfully doing just that since 1984. ArtWalk in 2011 featured more than 400 artists, and attracted more than 100,000 visitors. Similar attendance is expected in 2012.

Through support of community partners and sponsors, ArtWalk continues to bring art out into the open to see, hear and enjoy!