2016 Sun and Sea Festival Art and Artist Revealed

Back by popular demand, local student artist Ily Alfred has designed this year’s Sun & Sea Festival Image.

The 14-year-old ninth-grader impressed festival organizers so much with eye-catching and vibrant design in 2015 that they selected her new artwork to be replicated on posters and T-shirts for the festival, July 15 and 16.

"A lot of people told me that they liked last year’s image because it was colorful and featured a female surfer," said Alfred. "Imperial Beach is celebrating its 60th birthday, so I kept the bright colors and circular design because it catches your eye."

The pencil and ink '60s-inspired art prominently features psychedelic sandcastles, a flower-power VW bus and Surfhenge in front of a kaleidoscope sun.

According to event co-chair Shirley Nakawatase, "The committee is delighted that a sixth-generation, Imperial Beach artist is once more representing the festival."

When asked about her future as an artist, Alfred replies, "I draw and paint every day but I also use my skills as a face painter for birthday parties and local events."

This year’s official T-shirts, banners and posters will be supplied by Boca Rio, a local printing company who specializes in nonprofit clients, such as the Boys & Girls Club, the Taste of I.B. and the Fishing Derby. Boca Rio, which means where the river meets the sea, has been in business since 1998.

"We figure out a way to help community causes because it is an opportunity for me to educate the customer as well as participate in their event," according to owner, Rick Alvarez.

Event Snapshot

Saturday, July 16, 2015: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Pancake Breakfast: 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. - Pier Plaza
• Annual Parade: Starts at 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. - Seacoast Drive.
• Kidz Zone – Children’s Activities and fun 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Dunes Park
• Kids ‘n Kastles: sand castle competition for kids - noon to 1:30 p.m. - Dunes Park
• Master & Family/Business Sand Sculptures: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. sand castle competition -- IB Pier

Friday, July 15, 2015

• Mayor’s 2nd Annual Imperial Beach Pier Swim & Paddle - 9 a.m. Dempsey Holder Safety Center
• The Mayor’s Community Breakfast 10 a.m. - Pier Plaza.
• Sandcastle Ball: 6 p.m. to midnight - Imperial Beach Boys & Girls Club.