Art aficionados can rejoice since ArtWalk @ Liberty Station is returning this weekend to celebrate its 15th year – with some modifications, of course.
“This year we are bringing some much-needed color and art into people’s lives with a brand-new layout to allow for proper physical distancing,” Sandi Cottrell, Director of ArtWalk San Diego, said in a press release. “As we ring in our 15th year, ArtWalk @ Liberty Station serves as a beacon of light for the art community and will showcase our most diverse range of artists from across all mediums of art, traveling from the U.S., Mexico and beyond.”
ArtWalk has been going on throughout San Diego for the last 15 years, so it was difficult for organizers to hold off the annual event for the past eight months. However, it won't disappoint this weekend.
The annual fine arts exhibit, which will be the first show at the Point Loma hot spot since March, boasts artwork from more than 125 local and international artists that will be available for purchase. Various art pieces that will be on display are works that artists have been doing while at home or in their studios for the last several months.
“For them just to be in their studios working for the last six months or so, not only not being able to sell their art and their pieces but also for frame of mind and being able to get out and be able to make a living, too,” said Curt Brooker, Director of ArtWalk San Diego.
“My path as an artist took a turn because originally, I was in art galleries," said Nic McGuire. "That all that went quiet in March because nobody was going out, no one was going on vacation or buying things at galleries."
One glass sculpture artist who will be featured at the event told NBC 7 that the pandemic impacted his business but he has since been accepting private commissions.
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In addition to the art, 30 guitars will be auctioned off to benefit ArtReach San Diego, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping underrepresented schools obtain a visual arts education.
Organizers have worked hard to bring ArtWalk back while incorporating more health and safety measures.
To keep visitors safe, the show will be held outdoors in the heart of Liberty Station -- a big benefit that will help with social distancing. There will also be people working the event to make sure there aren't too many visitors in one space at a time.
Restrooms will be cleaned and sanitized frequently, and hand-sanitizing stations will be placed at the show, according to ArtWalk. Face masks and temperature checks for all visitors, artists and staff will be required.
The event is rain or shine and in anticipation of this weekend's upcoming storm, tents will be placed to protect the artwork and visitors from the rain.
Admission for the ArtWalk will be $5 per person and those who are 18 and under can enter for free. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 7 and Nov. 8.
For more information on the exhibit, or to purchase tickets, click here.
