Spotlight Focuses on Public Art

LagunaPlayhouse.com. Submitted photo The city's art collection includes Gerard Stripling's Repose benches at Treasure Island Park, the subject of a Festival of Arts talk with exhibitors. The Festival of Arts kicks off its new Thursday morning workshop, Coffee & Conversations with Artists, on Thursday, July 9. Join Festival of Arts artists Gerard Stripling, Terry Thornsley, Ralph Tarzian along with Arts Commissioners Pat Kollenda, Suzi Chauvel and cultural arts manager Siân Poeschl who will screen the new public art documentary "Eye View, the Laguna Beach Public Art Collection." The documentary highlights five public art pieces owned and installed by the city of which many have been created by current or past Festival of Arts exhibitors.

"Public Art plays such an important role in our city, from the oldest public art piece from 1933 by Ruth Peabody in Jahraus Park to our latest installation by Gerard Stripling and Michele Taylor at the Community and Senior Center. Each tells a story that is unique, some uplifting, some introspective and others that leave a legacy for future generations to enjoy," said cultural arts manager Siân Poeschl.

Over coffee enjoy asking these participants in public art their stories, inspirations, challenges and successes and hear about the city's 65-piece public art collection, located throughout the city. Nearly half was created by local artists. In addition, here's an opportunity to ask producer Suzi Chauvel about the documentary itself.

The series will continue every Thursday at 10 a.m. through Aug. 27th.

Festival admission prices are $7 for general admission and $4 for seniors and students. General admission tickets serve as season passes. Laguna Beach residents and military personnel with ID receive free admission.