First year guide to San Diego art

A reference for students interested in exploring the city’s local art scene with suggestions on where to start

Dorothy Dark | A&C Editor | The USD Vista

San Diego’s rich cultural history has played a vital role in the evolution of the city’s identity. The art that emerged from its inhabitants reflects the continued efforts of the community. 

These efforts are rooted in the tradition of rallying together when confronted with the question: where do we go from here? The sense of fellowship carries the city far in its continued growth and manifests in San Diego’s arts. At best they reach beyond pretentiousness to better reflect the attitude of the community. Fortunately for students, experiences with local art often comes at little to no cost

Today, the art scene flourishes throughout the region. Multifaceted forms of artistic demonstration are on display in galleries, parks, and venues. Akin to the material art in San Diego are the efforts of organizations advocating for the development of neighborhoods by way of civil engagement. 

Art is everywhere, but in becoming familiar with local promoters of creativity, it’s helpful to have a starting point. Below is a collection of notable sources for art in San Diego. The presence of art in this city runs deep, and for those interested in further exploration, these may help scratch the surface. 

Chicano Park 

Murals below the Coronado Bridge provide striking visuals that bespeak the cultural identity and experience of locals in Chicano Park. This park stands as a testament to the strength of the community which surrounds it. The landscape and scenery are animated by the park’s history of sustained civic action. Through the dedication of its residents the neighborhood conjured up a space that reflects the culture and vitality of the area, despite political opposition encountered along the way.

For further inquiry: http://www.chicanoparksandiego.com/index.html

Writerz Blok 

Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation is an organization for land development and a force of social righteousness, which works to build community through civic engagement and organization. The Market Creek Plaza is an example of their work brought to life, and the area serves as a center for the surrounding community. While the Plaza provides restaurants and retail, nearby is another attraction and the nation’s first legal graffiti park: Writerz Blok. The urban art program provides a creative outlet for artists in Southeastern San Diego, and hosts a variety of events focused around creative expression.

For further inquiry: http://www.jacobscenter.org

Media Arts Center (Digital Gym)  

Media Arts Center San Diego is a non-profit organization and proud sponsor of the city’s Digital Gym. This space includes theaters, workspaces, and a store all suited for the needs of tech-savvy citizens. The Center is committed to providing art, information, and resources that both educate and entertain. Movie-goers and filmmakers are sure to find a system of support for explorations in the media arts field. Screenings, workshops, and various media-based programs are available to the public. 

For further inquiry:  https://digitalgym.org

La Bodega Gallery

At La Bodega Gallery, Chris Zertuche and Soni Lopez-Chavez have created a space for artists and art enthusiasts alike. Bringing local culture to the forefront of their renovated warehouse, they highlight the vibrant work of creators within their community. A visit to the gallery will guarantee exposure to stimulating artwork with communal relevance in the here and now.

For further inquiry: https://www.labodegagallery.com

La Jolla Playhouse 

Driven by a desire to provide compelling and progressive theatre, the Playhouse puts on quality performances that not only entertain but aim to provoke. Ranging from Experimental Theatre to world premieres, their productions appeal to a broad audience and work as an example of evolving art in the modern context. Admission is more 

costly than a trip to the movies, but the price point may be worth it to experience contemporary theatrical art in San Diego. 

For further inquiry: https://lajollaplayhouse.org

Balboa Park  

As a cornerstone of cultural and artistic expression in San Diego, Balboa Park is well-practiced in catering to the needs of its visitors. The historical landmark has long been considered a staple in the community. With scenic gardens, numerous restaurants, 17 museums, and regularly scheduled events, there is truly something for everyone within the 1,200 acres of land. In cultivating a place where recreation and education are readily available, the park delivers as a hub for culture, science, and history. 

For further inquiry: https://www.balboapark.org

Mission Trails

The Mission Trails Regional Park covers a great deal of the nature-based recreation San Diego has to offer. Spanning 7,220 acres, the vast expanse of land includes a number of trails and natural attractions open for public use. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an experienced hiker or a certified amateur. The park features plenty 

of trails which deliver an alternative to buzzing city life. The richness of Southern California’s natural beauty 

can be explored by way of hiking, boating, or camping. 

For further inquiry: https://mtrp.org

Athenaeum Music & Arts Library  

The Athenaeum hosts a variety of events which cover many facets of artistic expression. From concerts to lectures and assorted exhibitions, there is no shortage of artistry coming from this nonprofit membership library. With content exclusively pertaining to music and art, the library is an extensive resource for materials ranging from artists’ books to librettos.