Thousands Rock Around the Beach at ArtSplash 2011

Chilly raindrops did not dampen the enthusiasm of visitors to as the 2011 weekend event began on the morning of Saturday, Sept. 24. On this day and on Sunday, the clouds gave way to sun and thousands of people, many in attire reflecting the 2011 “Rock Around the Beach” theme, enjoyed the free and easy access to the festival and to all the interactive arts as well as nonstop entertainment.

The first thing La Costa Glen resident Cha Cha Barrera did upon arriving was get up out of her walker and in the middle of a hula hoop. (Guess they don’t call her Cha Cha for nothing!)

After watching beautiful chalk art masterpieces created by professional artists come to life on the street, children chalked their own masterpieces in smaller squares. Hearts, flowers, mermaids and the sun were big among the younger set. While Megan Werts earnestly created a rainbow (“Rainbows are my favorite thing!”) her mom, Shereen Werts, related, “My husband and I used to come before we had kids. Now it’s a totally new experience. We love having all the arts and circus and bands in one place. Having it free makes it really wonderful. ArtSplash is all about community and we love that.”

KUSI-TV’s Dave Scott, a gifted trombonist, blew people away with his musicality and personality. He said he enjoyed his first appearance at the event. “It’s so cool. The venue is spectacular and the view is great. Everyone seems happy here and that’s the most important thing.”

Carlsbad High School Xcalibur Dancers Wendy Zeballos, Heather Dennett and Lauren Streicher performed on Saturday, then returned on Sunday to sell raffle tickets. “Xcalibur just got a from ArtSplash so we’re actually raising money for us,” they explained.

Over the years ArtSplash, whose mission is to raise money for arts and music programs in North County schools, has donated more than $23,000 in grants. This year, ArtSplash provided grants totaling $8,800 to .                                                                                         

The next grant cycle will begin in Spring 2012. The application deadline will be in August, 2012. Grant guidelines and applications are at carlsbadartsplash.org/grant.htm.

Chair Joni Miringoff says, “Although it is a two-day event, ArtSplash is a year-round joy to me and our close-knit team. The months-long planning process is full, but fun. The festival itself is hectic – sometimes crazy – but always exciting. I love watching the sparks of creativity fly in people of all ages. And being able to raise money to enrich the arts – well, that’s the real frosting on the cake.”

She concludes, “This year’s ArtSplash was the best yet, but wait until you see what we’ll have on the street for you in 2012!”

Photos and a of this year’s event will be posted soon at CarlsbadArtSplash.org.

Press Release by ArtSplash