Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Summer in full swing


Photo: Sawdust.org

You just can't have summer in Laguna without going to the art festivals there. My favorite is the Sawdust Festival. At it's present location at 935 Laguna Canyon Road since 1965, it is steeped in long-time Laguna history, and there are still eclectic Laguna artists showing their wares. In fact, all of the artists must be residents of Laguna Beach in order to exhibit there. Be sure to find sculptor Dion Wright's booth, he is one of the original artists still exhibiting since the early 1960's.

Julie Kahn on hand-built tower, 1968 - Photo courtesy of OCinSite.com
 If you're a local, there's no better deal to be found than Thursday night Local's Night. Show your Laguna Beach ID for free entry after 5pm.

Sasha Evans and Doug Miller Photo courtesy of MyHero.com
Set under the Live Oaks and Eucalyptus trees in beautiful Laguna Canyon, you'll find a mix of fine art  and jewelery, hand-made original furniture, crafty pieces, and of course, the famous glass blowers who demonstrate their techniques on site. Live music is offered at 3 different venues, so while others are shopping, you can kick back, enjoy and relax. If you are a music lover or an art lover, the Sawdust Festival is sure to have something for everyone, even the kids.

Charlie Jackson teaches Kaitlin Bailey how to throw a pot. Photo: Paul Rodriguez/OC Register
 Here's a few artists that you won't want to miss while you're there. Dion Wright, in booth #249, Amy Eidt Jackson, #101, Sharon Hardy, #103, Randy Bader, #308. Kirk Millette, #203, and last but not least, Douglas Miller, #310. You may even see Doug playing his violin with one of the live bands!