A Circus Of The Unexpected Is Coming To SMC

SAN CARLOS, CA — Art Bias in San Carlos will transform into a big top on June 7 with the arrival of artist-in-residence Terry Sand, the woman once crowned San Francisco’s first Miss Haight Ashbury.

Her creation, The Shinsplintski Family Circus, is an intimate blend of improvisational theater, visual art, and participatory performance.

Sand, acting as Madam Shinsplintski’s spokesperson, guides audiences of all ages through three rings of action — featuring circus acts, backstage antics, and puppetry — all in the service of rediscovering the value of play.

“Whether you’re an arts enthusiast, a curious neighbor, or simply in need of a joyful escape, this one-of-a-kind performance offers a reminder that you’re never too old to run away with the circus — or to find delight in the unexpected,” said Terra Fuller, the executive director at the Art BIas.

The Shinsplintski Family Circus originated in San Francisco with a cast of improv comedians. Its spirit now expands to Art Bias, located at 1700 Industrial Road, Office 227 in San Carlos, claiming to be the largest artist studio center on the Peninsula and home to 60 resident artists working in diverse visual art mediums.

The exhibition and performance will feature a comprehensive display of Terry Sand's artistic work, including her paintings, sculptures, kinetic creatures, and flying characters, all rolled up into the improvisational circus show.

Her current body of work draws inspiration from Alexander Calder, responding to his iconic Calder's Circus. Like Calder, Sands reinterprets the circus as both object and performance, imbuing everyday materials with personality.

The event offers free admission and is both kid and pet friendly.