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The La Jolla Art & Wine Festival (LJAWF) returns to La Jolla Village for its 18th year on Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This free, two-day outdoor festival features world-class art, curated libations, live entertainment, and community programming along Girard Avenue from Prospect Street to Torrey Pines Road, while supporting arts education through its nonprofit foundation. More than 170 juried artists from across the U.S. and Mexico will showcase fine art including painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography, ceramics, and glasswork, offering something for both collectors and casual art lovers. Beyond the art, guests 21+ can enjoy the popular Wine & Beer Garden, featuring a curated lineup of premier wineries, local craft breweries, and select spirits. New this year, guests can also upgrade their experience with an exclusive VIP area, offering an elevated tasting experience. Additional highlights include live music and entertainment, a two-day silent auction, interactive experiences, pet adoption stations, and the Geppetto’s Toys Family Art Center, offering hands-on activities that inspire creativity in children of all ages. The La Jolla Art & Wine Festival Foundation is a non-profit organization with a mission to bring needed funds to local public schools, art to the community, and to promote La Jolla and its merchants. Through the La Jolla Art & Wine Festival, the foundation strives to enhance the cultural vibrancy of the community and support local education initiatives. For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and artist or vendor applications, visit www.ljawf.com. The La Jolla Art & Wine Festival on Facebook / Instagram

Space 4 Art Presents "PHOSPHENE" Curated by Dinah Poellnitz Space 4 Art is pleased to present "PHOSPHENE," a group exhibition curated by Dinah Poellnitz and featuring the work of Bryttney-Mischele Salvant, Mark Chamness, Pastelle, and Akiko Surai. The exhibition opens with a public reception on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. and remains on view through August 15, 2026, at Art Produce Gallery. Named for the phenomenon of seeing light without an external source, PHOSPHENE (phos·phene (noun)/ˈfäsˌfēn/) refers to the colors, patterns, and luminous sensations perceived behind closed eyes. The exhibition uses this phenomenon as a metaphor for artistic intuition, exploring the inner vision that emerges before conscious thought and the creative instincts that guide artistic practice. Developed through Poellnitz's curatorial residency with Space 4 Art, the exhibition began with a studio visit to S4A resident artist Bryttney-Mischele Salvant and expanded into a conversation among four artists whose practices embrace intuition, material exploration, and personal transformation. Though their approaches differ— from painting and fiber to illustration, embroidery, and found materials —they share a commitment to trusting the creative process before certainty. “There is a moment every artist knows and rarely names. It arrives somewhere between the first mark and the last, when the mind finally stops negotiating with the hand,” Poellnitz commented. “These artists did not plan their way to that moment. They surrendered to it. And in that surrender, something was made that could not have been made any other way.” Salvant's expressive paintings privilege emotional truth over technical perfection, while Mark Chamness transforms discarded plastic bags into richly textured fiber works that investigate color, place, and environmental memory. Pastelle's vibrant illustrations celebrate confidence, identity, and unapologetic self-expression through radiant color and fantastical imagery. Akiko Surai's embroidered and beaded sculptures draw from Black revolutionary thought and craft traditions across the African diaspora, creating works that speak to resilience, inheritance, and collective imagination. Together, these artists invite viewers to consider the moment when instinct overtakes intention—when making becomes less about knowing and more about trusting. "PHOSPHENE" celebrates the quiet inner light that artists follow and asks audiences to reflect on the creative spark that exists within us all. Exhibition Details: Title: "PHOSPHENE" Curated by: Dinah Poellnitz Presented by: Space 4 Art Venue: Art Produce Gallery, 3139 University Ave., San Diego Opening Reception: July 18 | 4-7 p.m. Closing Reception and Artist Talk: August 15 | 12-3 p.m. Exhibition Dates: July 18 - August 15 Gallery Hours: Fridays 1-7 p.m.; Saturdays 12-6 p.m.; and by appointment All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit Space 4 Art's website (www.sdspace4art.org) or follow @space4artsd on social media. About the Curator: Dinah Poellnitz is an interdisciplinary curator and writer whose practice centers artists who work at the intersection of material experimentation, intuition, and cultural memory. Developed through her curatorial residency with Space 4 Art, "PHOSPHENE" reflects her ongoing interest in how artists transform personal vision into shared experience. About Space 4 Art: Space 4 Art is a San Diego-based nonprofit arts organization dedicated to supporting artists and strengthening the region’s cultural ecosystem by providing access to affordable creative spaces, artist opportunities, exhibitions, public programming, and community engagement.

Curated by Dinah Poellnitz Space 4 Art is pleased to present "PHOSPHENE," a group exhibition curated by Dinah Poellnitz and featuring the work of Bryttney-Mischele Salvant, Mark Chamness, Pastelle, and Akiko Surai. The exhibition opens with a public reception on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. and remains on view through August 15, 2026, at Art Produce Gallery. Named for the phenomenon of seeing light without an external source, "PHOSPHENE" (phos·phene (noun)/ˈfäsˌfēn/) refers to the colors, patterns, and luminous sensations perceived behind closed eyes. The exhibition uses this phenomenon as a metaphor for artistic intuition, exploring the inner vision that emerges before conscious thought and the creative instincts that guide artistic practice. Developed through Poellnitz's curatorial residency with Space 4 Art, the exhibition began with a studio visit to S4A resident artist Bryttney-Mischele Salvant and expanded into a conversation among four artists whose practices embrace intuition, material exploration, and personal transformation. Though their approaches differ— from painting and fiber to illustration, embroidery, and found materials —they share a commitment to trusting the creative process before certainty. “There is a moment every artist knows and rarely names. It arrives somewhere between the first mark and the last, when the mind finally stops negotiating with the hand,” Poellnitz commented. “These artists did not plan their way to that moment. They surrendered to it. And in that surrender, something was made that could not have been made any other way.” Salvant's expressive paintings privilege emotional truth over technical perfection, while Mark Chamness transforms discarded plastic bags into richly textured fiber works that investigate color, place, and environmental memory. Pastelle's vibrant illustrations celebrate confidence, identity, and unapologetic self-expression through radiant color and fantastical imagery. Akiko Surai's embroidered and beaded sculptures draw from Black revolutionary thought and craft traditions across the African diaspora, creating works that speak to resilience, inheritance, and collective imagination. Together, these artists invite viewers to consider the moment when instinct overtakes intention—when making becomes less about knowing and more about trusting. "PHOSPHENE" celebrates the quiet inner light that artists follow and asks audiences to reflect on the creative spark that exists within us all. Exhibition Details Title: "PHOSPHENE" Curated by: Dinah Poellnitz Presented by: Space 4 Art Venue: Art Produce Gallery, 3139 University Ave., San Diego Opening Reception: July 18 | 4-7 p.m. Closing Reception and Artist Talk: August 15 | 12-3 p.m. Exhibition Dates: July 18 - August 15 Gallery Hours: Fridays 1-7 p.m.; Saturdays 12-6 p.m.; and by appointment All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit Space 4 Art's website (www.sdspace4art.org) or follow @space4artsd on social media. About the Curator: Dinah Poellnitz is an interdisciplinary curator and writer whose practice centers artists who work at the intersection of material experimentation, intuition, and cultural memory. Developed through her curatorial residency with Space 4 Art, PHOSPHENE reflects her ongoing interest in how artists transform personal vision into shared experience. About Space 4 Art: Space 4 Art is a San Diego-based nonprofit arts organization dedicated to supporting artists and strengthening the region’s cultural ecosystem by providing access to affordable creative spaces, artist opportunities, exhibitions, public programming, and community engagement.

Come together with the community to celebrate creativity, inspiration, and joy in Oceanside/North County San Diego. Join in the fun during the 13th season of the First Friday Art Walk Oceanside from 5 to 8 pm in the heart of the Oceanside Cultural Arts District. This free, family-friendly event features over 60 local artists, makers, and creatives showcasing unique, handmade work in Artist Alley and the Civic Center Library Plaza, along with live music throughout the evening. Continuing into its second year, the After Art Party occurs from 8 to 9 pm with a live musical performance on the Civic Center Library Courtyard stage. In conjunction with the Art Walk, the Oceanside Museum of Art will offer free admission from 5 to 8 PM, including a docent-led tour at 6 PM and a cash bar with beer and wine. The First Friday Art Walk Oceanside is supported by the Oceanside Cultural Arts District, via funding by the California Arts Council, which is overseen by the Oceanside Public Library and Cultural Arts Department and takes place on the first Friday of each month from May through September, with a special holiday event each December. Huge Thank You to our promotional partners including Visit Oceanside and MainStreet Oceanside and our 2026 poster artist, Kathleen Ossiander. And thank you to all the artists and local organizations that have participated so far - we are grateful that you are part of our community!

Encinitas Preservation Association Presents the Historical Bus Tour - Featuring the historic 1886 Bumann Ranch and 60+ Historical Points The Encinitas Preservation Association (EPA) will once again be hosting the historical bus tour on Saturday, August 8 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. The tour includes over 50 historical points of interest and scheduled stops at OIivenhain Town Hall, San Dieguito Heritage Museum and a drive through the old Ecke Poinsettia Farm. The highlight of the tour will be a rare opportunity to tour the historic Bumann Ranch which was homesteaded in 1886. This ranch has been carefully preserved and represents rural life in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. This is an extraordinary opportunity to see a working ranch with many historic buildings. Three generations of the Bumann family have called this home for the past 125 years. The buildings and contents are totally original and unchanged. Of the many Encinitas homestead ranches that once dotted the back country, this is the only one to survive into the twenty first century. Each ticket supports the preservation of two of Encinitas’ most iconic historical buildings, the Boathouses. The EPA acquired the SS Moonlight and SS Encinitas in 2008 in order to maintain them and make sure they remain in place for future generations. Tickets are $60 at the iconic 1883 one room schoolhouse. They may be purchased through the Eventbrite page. The tour will depart from the Pacific View Arts Center parking lot at 10 a.m. and return at 1 p.m. The 1883 School House will be open for viewing following the tour. Parking will be available at Pacific View Arts Center. Encinitas Preservation Association on Facebook / Instagram

Fans can enjoy themed activations and food trucks in the Lexus Premier Lot, including: - The Labu’Tique Shop returns to Petco Park with The Labu’Tique Famers Market! Home of America’s most viral Labubu collectible shop, The Labu’tique brings to San Diego, a wide variety of what’s currently trending, Squish Toys, Jellycats and the viral surprise Dumplings. The Labu’tique brings a wide variety of collectibles, squish toys and blind boxes for every age to enjoy! - Maruchan’s MaruMart will transport attendees into a vibrant Japanese convenience store–inspired, walk-through experience centered on flavor, ramen, merch, and photo-worthy moments, where a familiar world gets a playful, themed twist just for Comic Con fans. Inside, guests can discover free Maruchan samples, unexpected flavor twists, exclusive merchandise only available at this activation, and surprise giveaways throughout a dynamic environment built for exploration, discovery, and immersive snacking all weekend long. - Wizards of the Coast will host the Magic: The Gathering | Marvel Super Heroes Fan Experience in Petco Park. Open to all (no badge required), fans can dive into this new collection with learn-to-play sessions, ticketed play, and exclusive giveaways. - Fans can step into The KAYOU Walls of Fandom, a free walk-through experience inside the Interactive Zone at Petco Park that brings the worlds behind KAYOU’s most beloved cards to life. Throughout the experience, guests can get up close and personal with actual KAYOU cards showcased within each installation, revealing the illustration, design, foiling, and craftsmanship that makes every trading card a collectible piece of art. - Hello Kitty Cafe Truck returns with exclusive merchandise and sweet treats. Fans can shop totes, hats, throw blankets, mugs, quarter-zip jackets and t-shirts.

Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center is thrilled to invite the community to Day of Play 2026 on Saturday, July 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The free family-friendly event invites guests of all ages to learn, explore, and celebrate healthy living in Olivewood’s beautiful garden. During Day of Play, families will participate in nutrition, gardening, STEAM (Science, technology, engineering, art, and math) activities, take-home crafts, physical activities and games, cooking demonstrations from the Kitchenistas, raffle prizes and so much more! Day of Play is a day filled with interactive fun, outdoor exploration, and inspiration for the whole family to come together to play, learn, and celebrate the joy of living well. Registration is optional but encouraged. Pre-registration will enter attendees into a raffle to win a spot in an upcoming family cooking class. Registration is now open at olivewoodgardens.org/day-of-play Attendees will enjoy: - Hands-on STEAM, nutrition, and gardening activities - Cooking demonstrations from Olivewood’s Kitchenistas® - DIY crafts, outdoor games, and physical activity stations - Interactive booths, raffle prizes, and community partner showcases - FREE trolley rides to and from the National City Library courtesy of KPBS Kids Day of Play is made possible thanks to generous support from community partners and sponsors including: KPBS Kids, Old Town Trolley, First 5, National City Public Library, Fleet Science Center, Natural History Museum, San Diego County Master Gardeners Association, National Marine Mammal Foundation, San Diego Community Power, Tree San Diego, Ocean Connectors, Resource Conservation District, Dimensions Collaborative School, Head Start, Southbay Sustainable Communities, WildOnes, Paddle for Peace, SDG&E, Count of San Diego, Girl Scouts San Diego, Dr Bronners and SunMud Olivewood’s mission is to nourish communities and cultivate a deep connection to the environment through nutrition education, sustainable urban agriculture, collective advocacy, and intergenerational leadership. What: Day of Play 2026 – A Free Community Event When: Saturday, July 25 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Where: Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center Address: 2525 N Avenue, National City, CA 91950 More Info: www.olivewoodgardens.org About Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center Nestled on a historic 7.85-acre property in National City, Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center serves as an interactive, indoor-outdoor classroom for children and adults from across San Diego County. Through food, garden, and environmental education, we help communities build healthier lives, foster environmental stewardship, and strengthen intergenerational connections Olivewood Gardens on Facebook / Instagram

Get ready for an experience like no other! Grioneers, Inc. proudly presents the 9th Annual Afrofuturism Lounge—where Black creativity, comics, culture, and innovation collide! Join us on July 23, 2026, during San Diego Comic-Con for an unforgettable evening of storytelling, visionary art, engaging conversations, and immersive experiences. Meet groundbreaking creators, celebrate Black speculative fiction, and help imagine the future we can build together. Every attendee will receive a FREE "DEFIANT" movie poster (a $15 value), while supplies last! Upgrade Your Experience – Only $40 Take your Afrofuturism Lounge experience to the next level with the Upgraded Afrofuturism Lounge Ticket, which includes: - General Admission - "DEFIANT" movie poster - "DEFIANT: The Story of Robert Smalls" softcover graphic novel That's more than $64 in combined value for just $40. Named to NPR's Books We Love 2025 and nominated for an NAACP Image Award, "DEFIANT" tells the extraordinary true story of Robert Smalls—a man who seized his freedom, rescued his family, and went on to serve five terms in Congress. A feature film is currently in development. Best of all, after the 8:30 p.m. fireside chat, upgraded ticket holders can have their graphic novel signed by Rob Edwards and Sebastian A. Jones at the Legion M booth. Limited upgraded bundles are available—reserve yours before they're gone Afrofuturism Lounge isn't just an event—it's a movement. Secure your tickets today and be part of the future. Visit AfrofuturismLounge.com for details. Don't miss it! Dr. LaWana Firyali Freedom Richmond on Instagram

Comic-Con 2026 July 23-26 Hilton San Diego Gaslamp is leveling up attendees' Comic-Con experience with the limited time Level Up Lounge, a retro-inspired gaming tavern taking over Wild Hare Bar Garden. Open throughout Comic-Con, the limited-time pop-up invites fans, cosplayers, and convention-goers to step into a vibrant world of pixel-art décor, themed cocktails, nostalgic gaming-inspired details, interactive photo moments, and live entertainment. Just steps from the San Diego Convention Center, Level Up Lounge is open daily during Comic-Con, offering fans a chance to recharge after a day of cosplay, panels, and gaming activations. Inspired by the nostalgia of classic video games, this limited-time experience invites guests to press pause, power up, and feel like they've stepped into a real-life arcade adventure. Plus! An immersive photo experience makes this the ultimate side-quest for downtown San Diego Instagram–worthy Comic-Con Destinations. Wild Hare Bar Garden OPEN DAILY Sunday - Thursday from 6:30 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday - Saturday from 6:30 a.m. -12 a.m.

Experience a transformative journey with "A Walk with Yáamay," a series of free, site-specific guided “art walks” presented by New Village Arts. Led by a council of Indigenous artists and curators, these immersive tours blend natural exploration with live poetry, song, visual art, and performance. Drawing inspiration from "Yáamay: An Anthology of Feminine Perspectives Across Indigenous California," this experience invites you to become part of the narrative. Every participant will be provided with a journal and pencil to capture personal reflections, sketches, and insights as the performance unfolds around them- as well as a copy of the anthology. The "A Walk with Yáamay" program is proud to partner with Queer Sol Collective, the poets of Yáamay, and local parks and recreation spaces to bring this experience to life.