John Braheny and I have volunteered to work at this incredible art show for the past 14 years (skipping once or twice) and have always found this one to be top-notch.
Just as you’d expect, if you know anything about Venice, California, the art is kooky, but often luxurious, and includes a jaw-dropping array of talent & crafts that you just can’t find anywhere else (we’ve looked).
Put the date on your calendar (Blackberry) now if you’re anywhere in the Los Angeles area, or are planning to be.
The Venice Art Walk features self-guided tours of more than 60 local private working studios and homes of notable Venice artists and private collectors.
Sunday, May 18th, 2008 – 11am-6pm
Where to go when you arrive:
(Tickets/Info and site of the silent auction):
Westminster School
1010 Abbot Kinney Road
Venice, California
A major reason for the exceptional distinction of the Art Walk is it’s location in Venice, home base of many of the West Coast’s best loved artists: Charles Arnoldi, Ruth Weisberg, Laddie John Dill, Martha Alf, David Hockney, Richard Serra, and many others.
The event also features a food faire, located at the Westminster School, offering gourmet cuisine, an al fresco cocktail garden and live music performances. The event benefits the Venice Family Clinic, the largest free clinic in the United States. They provide medical care to uninsured individuals and families in Los Angeles County who would otherwise have no access to health care. (from their brochure)
It’s only one day (Sunday, May 18, 2008) unless you purchase special tickets to participate in more exclusive activities on the day before. Tickets for Sunday are usually a bit pricey (around $50) but are well worth it — and it’s deductible — for a good cause. Or, you can do as we do, volunteer preceding or during the event, and get in free! They can always use an extra hand.
Prepare to hunt for a parking space. You’ll be doing a LOT of walking, so wear comfy shoes, and bring hike-like supplies: water/granola bars, etc. Fortunately, shuttle buses roam the streets (you need your badge to ride those).
The whole event is very well organized. However, much as you try, you’ll never be able to see it all in one day…so, when you buy your tickets, study the program guide and choose the artists’ studios you’ll want to see first. This event is not for sissies! (And sure, you’ll see some stuff you don’t like, but the stuff you DO like will definitely be worth the trip!
Enjoy!
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