Big Crowds For Pageant Of The Masters Opening Weekend

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Laguna Beach was the place to be over the weekend, after huge crowds turned up to celebrate the opening weekend of the 2023 Festival of Arts Fine Art Show and the Pageant of the Masters.

Patrons who visited the world-renowned Festival of Arts Fine Art Show enjoyed viewing the work from over 120 Orange County fine artists. According to a news release, the juried art show features a wide variety of media including paintings, photography, printmaking, sculpture, jewelry, handcrafted wood and furniture, ceramics, glass and more.

Following the opening of the Fine Art Show was the debut of the 2023 Pageant of the Masters production of "Art Colony: In The Company of Artist" on July 7. The Pageant, which is celebrating its 90th anniversary this summer, drew nearly sold-out crowds over the opening weekend, organizers said.

According to organizers, this year's Pageant is "a heartfelt recognition of artistic communities, showcasing the profound impact of collaboration and mentorship throughout history."

Some re-created works of art include "Alone and Together (Under the Freeway)" by Chicano artist David Botello, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by African American sculptor Augusta Savage, and Native American paintings by Bert Geer Phillips.

The 2023 Festival of Arts Fine Art Show and the Pageant of the Masters runs daily from July 7 through Sept. 1.

For more information on purchasing tickets, visit the Pageant of the Masters' website.