In Its 24th Year, ArtWalk Features Original Work From Hundreds of
Artists, Interactive Activities for Children, Performing Arts, and
Much More, in Weekend-Long FREE Event
For High Resolution Photographs Go to:
http://www.artwalksandiego.org/press/photos_2008.html
and http://www.artwalksandiego.org/press/fa_2008.html
SAN DIEGO, Jan. 8, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- In its 24th year, San Diego's ArtWalk Festival will return to downtown's hip and historic Little Italy neighborhood on April 26 and 27, 2008 from 12 noon to 6 p.m. on both days. The largest open-air gallery in the region, ArtWalk fills 14 city blocks with some of the finest painting, sculpture, glasswork, photography, music and dance by more than 400 artists from throughout Southern California, Arizona and Mexico.
Conveniently located just minutes from the well-known Gaslamp District and within walking distance of the trolley station, this free event is easily accessible to both locals and visitors alike. Attracting more than 100,000 attendees last year, Sandi Cottrell, managing director of ArtWalk, anticipates an even greater turnout this year.
"ArtWalk brings the possibility of owning original art into the realm of possibility for everyone," said Cottrell. "It's a truly rewarding experience for veteran art collectors and first-time buyers. Visitors that return to ArtWalk each year also enjoy visiting with some of their favorite artists, and seeing how their inspiration changes from year to year. And of course the ultimate reward is taking home original pieces of art."
ArtWalk creates a unique weekend experience for the region. Visitors have an opportunity to soak up the sights, sounds and tastes of Little Italy's artistic community while enjoying the event's festive atmosphere. With the harbor as a backdrop, Little Italy's two-day event offers an eclectic mix of exhibits and activities. Some highlights include:
Silent Auction to Benefit ArtReach -- Visitors can bid on garden benches, each painted in the personal style of one of ArtWalk's artists, in a silent auction to benefit ArtReach. A non-profit program created by the same team behind ArtWalk, ArtReach enriches children's lives through collaborative visual arts experiences in San Diego County elementary schools.
KidsWalk -- An interactive experience at Amici Park engages children with various activities including painting, performing arts classes, a scavenger hunt, student art exhibit and more.
Bi-national Showcase -- The Consulado General de Mexico/Mexican Cultural Institute and ArtWalk will showcase some of the best and most unique works from Mexican artists. Held at the Mexican Consulate headquarters, this popular attraction features paintings, sculpture and photography celebrating the artistic excellence of famed and up-and-coming talents.
Music and More -- Local musicians, dancers and performance groups entertain attendees with performances throughout the event.
Volunteer Opportunities -- More than 250 volunteers work on ArtWalk leading up to the event and on-site. It's a terrific opportunity to take part in San Diego's premiere art festival. For volunteer opportunities, please contact Carmen DeBello at cdebello@artwalksandiego.org.
For more information on ArtWalk 2008, artist locations or performances, visit www.artwalksandiego.org or call 619.615.1090. To schedule interviews, please contact Stephanie Liu, Citrus Public Relations, 858.240.4558.