September is the proclaimed Arts Month in San Diego by San Diego City Council

This is an exciting time for the ARTS in San Diego. Today the San Diego City Council proclaimed September as Arts Month San Diego in recognition of the San Diego’s growing arts community.

"Arts Month San Diego will bring together the finest visual and performing artists for an amazing month-long celebration. As this event grows, so will our arts community, and I know both will benefit tremendously," said San Diego City Councilmember Kevin Faulconer.

Over this past weekend San Diego welcomed over 7000 visitors to the second edition of ART SAN DIEGO Contemporary Art Fair at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. In addition to the 47 galleries representing artists from all around the world, the fair also featured conferences, conversations and Art Labs that extended from NTC to Barrio Logan. This is only one event of over 40 that are planned for Arts Month. It is estimated that the combined events will bring over 200,000 cultural visitors to San Diego.

"We believe passionately that arts and culture has the unique power to enrich our lives and bring economic vitality to our communities, so we are very appreciative to Councilman Faulconer and the entire city council for declaring September as Arts Month in San Diego," said Ann Berchtold, one of the founders of Arts MONTH and Director of the ART SAN DIEGO Contemporary Art Fair.

"ARTS MONTH SAN DIEGO" Proclamation

ARTS MONTH SAN DIEGO / SEPTEMBER

WHEREAS, in September "Arts Month San Diego’ will be held annually, which is an informal marketing collaboration made up of a wide variety of the city’s nonprofit and for-profit arts and performance entities under one umbrella. Arts Month is an open invitation to all San Diegans as well as visitors to take advantage of the vast array of cultural offerings we have as a city.

WHEREAS, Through community outreach, social networking, viral word-of-mouth, print and outdoor advertising campaign, and cultural promotions, we are urging San Diegans to enjoy the best the art world has to offer without leaving the city.

WHEREAS, Arts Month is an open invitation to all San Diegans as well as visitors to take advantage of the city’s vast array of cultural offerings. Listings on the ARTS MONTH SD website is open to all San Diego visual and performing arts organizations who want to feature programming in September.

WHEREAS, While there is no shortage of world-class art events, exhibitions and programming all year-long in San Diego, the impetus for naming September as "Arts Month San Diego" was due in part to the numerous arts-related festivals and events happening then (San Diego Film Festival, Art San Diego Contemporary Art Fair, ArtWalk on the Bay, the Art of Photography Show, among others). There are many other great exhibitions, events and programs happening during this time frame as well, which are listed on artsmonthsd.com.

WHEREAS, Deeming one month as an Arts Month offers a promotional opportunity to bring both a local and national spotlight to San Diego as a city rich with arts and culture, and creates a sense of urgency for people to enjoy all that our local arts and culture organizations have to offer. It can also have a significant impact in driving cultural tourism and bringing additional revenue into San Diego.

WHEREAS, 2010 is a planning/establishing year to generate grassroots excitement and visibility, and the vision is that this will grow to become an annual event that continues to grow each year, and serves to increase the awareness of San Diego as a city rich in cultural offerings.

WHEREAS, 2010 promotion includes: A web site, street banners along Harbor Drive (paid for as a co-op by participating organizations), a City Council proclamation on Sept. 7, and media outreach/coverage. Additional support comes from both The San Diego Union-Tribune and art ltd. magazine, who are both developing special sections to support San Diego’s arts and culture community and this initiative, and cross-promotion by Arts Month Parnters.

WHEREAS, The "Arts Month SD" web site offers a "one-stop-shop" of events and programs people can take advantage of throughout the month, along with some hotel packages that have been created specifically for Arts Month and its related events. Organizers are also working on special promotional offers, discounts and programming exclusive to Arts Month – a downloadable ARTS PASS will be offered on the ARTS MONTH Website to redeem these special offers.

WHEREAS, with a goal to establish San Diego as a city rich in its culturally offerings, both for our residents and visitors to our beautiful city, NOW, THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLVED, by the City of San Diego, that this Council, for and on behalf of the people of San Diego, does hereby proclaim the month of September as "Arts Month San Diego" in the City of San Diego.

About Arts Month San Diego
Arts Month San Diego brings a diverse cross-section of arts and culture programs showcased throughout the month with participating galleries, artist-run initiatives, public art museums, performing arts events, and festivals. The month’s events will be kicked-off at the Opening Night of ART SAN DIEGO Contemporary Art Fair on Thursday, September 2, 2010. Organizers are also working on special promotional offers, discounts and programming exclusive to Arts Month – a downloadable ARTS PASS will be offered on the ARTS MONTH Web site to redeem these special offers (http://www.artsmonthsd.com/docs/AMSD_ArtsPass.pdf)
Major events include ART SAN DIEGO Contemporary Art Fair, ArtWalk on the Bay, Art of Photography Show, San Diego Fine Art Society First Annual Art Awards, San Diego Film Festival, and a world-class exhibition organized by the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Downtown called "Viva La Revolucion."Details on participating artists for all of the events can be found online by visiting www.artsmonthsd.com.

The vision this year is to plan and establish grassroots excitement and visibility, with the end goal to establish Arts Month as an annual event. The model of this year’s event is based on the success of Arts Month in several major national/international cities (Los Angeles, Sydney, etc.).

Through community outreach, viral word-of-mouth and a modest print and outdoor advertising campaign, we are urging San Diegans to enjoy the best the art world has to offer without leaving our city.

Month-long Calendar of Events from this year’s Partners:

SEPTEMBER 2010 EVENTS

ART SAN DIEGO Contemporary Art Fair
Thursday, September 2, 2010 through Sunday, September 5, 2010
Hilton San Diego Bayfront / 1 Park Boulevard / SD CA 92101
ART SAN DIEGO 2010 will be held September 2-5, 2010, at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel. More than 50 galleries will showcase paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, videos, and cutting-edge multimedia artworks. The Fair includes a VIP Opening Night, distinguished guest speakers, luxury brand displays, city-wide cultural programs, and exclusive wine and food events.

Art Labs @ ART SAN DIEGO Contemporary Art Fair
September 2010
Concurrent city-wide programming / SD CA
Art Labs include commissioned single and multi-artist exhibitions, performances and events. In addition, Art Labs include concurrent city-wide programming taking place at art institutions, warehouses, galleries and in public settings.

San Diego Fine Art Society Annual Art Awards
Thursday, September 2, 2010
ART SAN DIEGO Contemporary Art Fair / Hilton San Diego Bayfront / 1 Park Boulevard / SD CA 92101
Presented in conjunction with ART SAN DIEGO, the San Diego Fine Art Society is proud to present the First Annual Art Awards to recognize the achievements of individuals, organizations, or programs committed to enriching their community through the arts.

Sight & Sound Concert at the Bay
Friday, September 3, 2010 / 7pm – 10pm
ART SAN DIEGO Contemporary Art Fair / Hilton San Diego Bayfront / 1 Park Boulevard / SD CA 92101
Sight & Sound is an outdoor rock concert with dancers and art installation pieces. Experience top San Diego talent in the performance and visual arts. This event represents the San Diego creative community and is free to attend.

Art of Photography Show 2010
Saturday, August 28, 2010 through Sunday, November 7, 2010
Lyceum Theatre Gallery / 79 Horton Plaza / SD CA 92101
A world-class international exhibition of photographic art occurring August 28 through November 7, 2010 at the elegant two-level Lyceum Theatre Gallery, a perfect venue for exhibiting a large showcase of contemporary photographic art. One of the distinguishing characteristics of this competition and exhibition is that our judge is always a highly acclaimed museum curator. This year our esteemed judge is Natasha Egan, the Associate Director and Curator at the Museum of Contemporary Photography in Chicago.

Set & Drift. An Interdisciplinary Creative Studio
Reception: Saturday, September 4, 2010 / 7 pm – 10 pm
The Bakery / 1701 National Avenue / Barrio Logan / SD CA 92113
The Bakery will host a multi-discipline exhibition, showcasing the blurry line between art and design. Its working furniture design workshop will undergo a temporary transformation, featuring fantastical works by international lighting designers, coupled with original music installations. The Bakery is a shared collaborative space in Barrio Logan that houses Set & Drift (art + design events) and mi-workshop (object + space design), as well as The Farm Proper (a mobile, urban farm experiment).
Open Studio throughout the ART SAN DIEGO Contemporary Art Fair (Sept 3-5, 2010)

Mosaic Gallery: "Speaking in Tongues - Conversing Through San Diego Art"
Opening Reception: Saturday, Sep 4, 2010 / 5 pm – 12 pm
Live Music / Hosted Wine and Food / 5 – 6 pm
Jesinoski Contemporary Arts - Mosaic Gallery / 3422 30th. North Park / SD CA 92104
Welcome to Mosaic Gallery. Our hope is to build a venue supportive of local,
emerging art and to help bridge the gap between local artists, and collectors. By
supporting the artists of Mosaic Gallery you are taking an active role in building a culture
for the arts right here in San Diego. Thank you for your support and we are grateful for your attendance.

Studio 6608: Grand Opening Party
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Featuring: "The Mud Chairs" Series by Jennifer Anderson
Live Music + Performances
Studio 6608 / 6608 El Cajon Boulevard / SD CA 92115
Studio 6608 houses non-traditional and contemporary furniture designers, architectural designers, interior designers, visual artists and musicians. Formerly The Out Of The Blue Design Studio, which existed for over 12 years, Studio 6608 continues the spirit of collaboration, and cultivating the art of design. Located at 6608 El Cajon Boulevard, very close to SDSU, Studio 6608 is proud to be a part of Art San Diego 2010.

alt.pictureshows ‘10
Thursday, September 9, 2010 / 7 pm – 10pm
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) - Downtown / 1001 Kettner Blvd / SD CA 92101
Part happening, part film installation, the * Arts
* Society
* Visual Arts
* California
* Event News
eighth annual alt.pictureshows—San Diego’s premier short-film showcase—will transform portions of MCASD’s downtown gallery spaces into a wonderfully diverse, cinematic funhouse. Museum-goers are free to dip in and out of rooms at will—"physical channel surfing" is encouraged—to sample an offbeat cross-section of short films, linked either by a common theme, sensibility, or both.

Distinction Gallery: "Quiet Homes Await an Indian Summer"
Saturday, September 11, 2010 – Saturday October 2, 2010
Opening Reception: Saturday, September 11, 2010 / 6 pm– 11 pm
Distinction Gallery and Artist Studios / 317 E. Grand Ave / Escondido, CA 92026
Distinction Gallery retains its ritual of exhibiting brilliant artists to the Southern California community by focusing September’s show on Los Angeles based artist, Andy Haynes. His works presented in "Quiet Homes Await an Indian Summer" evoke ideas of spiritual guidance, innocence, growing, learning, and finding patience all surrounded by contemporary American Traditions. The artist reveals his dedication to depicting the journey of life and capturing the moments of which life is comprised.
The opening reception with the artist, as well as live music will be held on Saturday, September 11th, 2010 from 6-11 PM. Complimentary wine and beer will be provided for those over 21. Distinction Gallery hopes you will join us in celebrating this exceptional show.

ART Produce Gallery: "WhEAthARvesT"
Saturday,September 11, 2010 through Sunday, October 24, 2010
Opening Reception: Saturday, September 11, 2010 / 5 pm – 10 pm
ART Produce Gallery / 3139 University Avenue / SD CA 92104
A community-growing project by artist David Krimmel. The project utilizes locally grown grain to promote awareness of current issues in commercial food production. This past spring a vacant lot in urban North Park was transformed into a field of wheat. Community members are growing wheat in their home gardens and will come together in September for a community harvest.
On September 11th the streets of North Park will become a dance floor as Eveoke Dance Theater transports locally grown wheat to Art Produce Gallery. Using threshing tables, winnowing baskets and a bicycle powered grain mill, participants are invited to process the grain into flour. On exhibit in the gallery will be a wheat inspired installation, documentation, and artist designed grain processing equipment.

5th Annual University Heights Arts Open
Sunday, September 12, 2010 / 12 pm – 5pm
Tour begins on the grounds of the Historic Annex Building 4100 Normal Street / SD CA 92103
A one-of-a-kind event that celebrates art in all its forms, and doesn't charge you a penny. The Open features works and talks by painters, sculptors, dancers, poets and musicians. Visitors can visit studios, check out exhibitions, chat with the artistes and watch performances. The participating establishments and troupes are worth spending time on. The Open is a collaborative effort again this year with the Taste of University Heights. Stroll through the quaint neighborhood enjoying sample delicacies from some of University Heights diverse restaurants and then enjoy a free self guided tour of the arts.

MCASD Open House: Free 3rd Thursday Evening
Thursday, September 16, 2010 / 5 pm – 7pm
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) - La Jolla & Downtown
On the third Thursday of every month from 5 to 7 pm, visitors receive FREE admission to both the Museum's downtown and La Jolla locations.

ArtWalk on the Bay
Saturday, September 18, 2010 through Sunday, September 19, 2010
Hilton San Diego Bayfront Waterfront Park/ Embarcadero / SD CA 92101

Now in its 5th year, as the fall counterpart of San Diego’s largest fine art festival, Mission Federal ArtWalk, which attracts 120,000 each year, ArtWalk on the Bay showcases more than 3,000 pieces of original art from world-class artists from all over the USA and Mexico. The free bayfront festival showcases San Diego’s top musical performers, from indie-rock to the San Diego Symphony. Bring your family to enjoy interactive art for children as well as delicious food at the ArtWalk on the Bay Café.

333’s Jazz at The Museum Presents: The Sue Palmer Quintet
Thursday, September 16, 2010
OMA / 704 Pier View Way / Oceanside CA 92054
Sue Palmer, The Queen of Boogie Woogie returns to Oceanside Museum of Art. Get ready to snap your fingers and tap your toes to the blues and boogie woogie rhythms of Palmer and her Motel Swing Orchestra that are sure to pack the house. The evening will begin with tasty appetizers from 333 Pacific restaurant and a variety of wines at 7:00 p.m. 333 Pacific has partnered with the museum to present a swinging jazz concert series paired with gourmet appetizers, desserts and specialty wines.
Admission is $25 or $20 for members of Oceanside Museum of Art. Admission is at the door, there is open seating and no reservations.

Monte Carlo Does Bond
Saturday, September 25, 2010 / 6:30 pm
Museum of Contemporary Art (MCASD) - La Jolla / 700 Prospect Street / SD CA 92037
The Museum’s annual Monte Carlo gala fundraiser takes on Bond, James Bond. Join gala chairs Sheryl and Harvey White as MCASD’s oceanfront La Jolla location is turned into 007’s playground. Gala guests will start the evening at a cocktail party where they can enjoy a martini (shaken, not stirred), casino games, and hors d’oeuvres before making their way to the dining room for dinner under the stars. All proceeds support the Museum’s education programs and exhibitions.

Art Splash
Saturday, September 25, 2010 / 10 am – 6 pm, and
Sunday, September 26, 2010 / 10 am – 5 pm
Armada Drive above The Flower Fields / Carlsbad, CA
Chalk up great family fun September 25-26, 2010 at Carlsbad ArtSplash on Armada Drive overlooking the blue Pacific. Experience hands-on art-making opportunities, great food, juried fine art, chalk painting, sand sculpting, juggling, live music, and family carnival! Art from diverse genres will come to life during the two-day festival. First and foremost are the chalk art replicas of famous museum pieces, created by professional and amateur artists right on the street. ArtSplash celebrates the colorful chalk art tradition dating back to 16th century Italy. Watch unique art come alive as artists create amazing, museum-quality replica paintings right on the street!

NTC Promenade @ Liberty Station
Free Open Artist Studios, Galleries & Performances
Every First Friday of the Month / Starting at 5 pm
Liberty Station / 2640 Historic Decatur Road / SD CA 92106
Friday Night Liberty is a monthly first-Friday evening of FREE open artist studios, galleries and events throughout NTC Promenade Arts & Cultural District.
Free parking. Free Admission. The Freedom to explore, wander and enjoy our growing cultural campus.

San Diego Film Festival
Wednesday, September 29, 2010 through Sunday, October 3, 2010
Gaslamp Theater / 701 Fifth Avenue / SD CA 92101
For five fabulous days and nights, the San Diego Film Festival celebrates the art & style of film with a unique mix of thought-provoking, award-winning films designed to engage, enlighten and entertain audiences followed by five of San Diego’s hottest parties. The diverse program includes over 75 features, shorts, documentaries and music videos from around the World. SDFF is redefining the film experience and doesn't believe in just screening films, but instead aims to offer an entire 360 degree experience around each film. Whether it's an arm wrestling contest during the Q&A's, a ballet performance in the lobby, or wine and cheese samplings during the film, SDFF's goal is to creatively engage their guests by offering an interactive unique film experience.

Poway Boardwalk Craft Market
Every Saturday until Christmas / 8 am – 2 pm
Old Poway Park / 14134 Midland Rd / Poway, CA 92064
Old Poway Park, the City of Poway's award winning Heritage Park, celebrates life in California at the turn-of-the-last-century when there was a revival of interest in handcrafts as promoted by the Arts & Crafts Movement. Since 1993 the Boardwalk Craft Market has presented contemporary artists working in traditional arts and crafts to create "beautiful and useful things " in the spirit of the Arts & Crafts Movement but relevant to today. Meet the artists and learn about their techniques.
The Boardwalk Craft Market takes its name from its unique location on the covered boardwalk along the tracks of the Poway Midland Railroad. While shopping at the Boardwalk Craft Market visitors can experience the sights and sounds of an antique 1907 steam locomotive or 1894 trolley making its half-mile journey around Old Poway Park.

Contact:
Jennifer von Stauffenberg
Olive PR Solutions
350 W. Ash St. #103
San Diego, CA 92101
619-302-3181
jennifer@oliveprsolutions.com
http://www.artsmonthsd.com