One of the more popular elements of the OB Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off is Artists’ Alley. So popular is the demand for unique creations that Artists’ Alley will be even bigger and better than in past years, encompassing both sides of Cable Street and boasting 60 booths. That’s one-third larger than past years. Be sure to check them all out, as some favorites will be in new locations this year. Jewelry, paintings, photographs and more will delight the eyes. Tie-dye T-shirts and tutu vendors will appeal to Obecians and visitors — from traditional hippies to trendy fashionistas. “Usually people notice really quickly that everything in there is handmade and eclectic,” said Faren Shear, who has served as the volunteer coordinator of Artists’ Alley for 6 years. She said the artists enjoy the Ocean Beach Street Fair because of the great response from the community and the blog that helps the public preview who will have a booth. Some participants include Somba Art, which will sell paintings, along with La Chil Boutique, displaying handmade jewelry. In addition, Crafty Betties will offer hand-sewn clothing. “The same artists return year after year,” Shear said. “It’s one of their favorite fairs to participate in.” Young at Art, a nonprofit children’s art education center at the corner of Newport Avenue and Cable Street, will have a double booth offering interactive art activities for children. Artists’ Alley is located on Cable Street between Niagara Street and Santa Monica Avenue. To check out the blog, visit www.oceanbeachartistsalley.blogspot.com. But Artist’s Alley isn’t the only outlet for creative-minded folks in Ocean Beach. In 1999, Ocean Beach artist Rich James started a community mural project as a way to inject pride into the community and to beautify the area. James designed mosaic squares that OB Street Fair attendees would then paint. Afterward, James and his friends would install the pieces on the outside wall of a chosen business. While James passed away one month before 2008 street fair, the legacy and tradition lives on today with artist Janis Ambrosiani. This year, street fairgoers will be painting mosaics that will be displayed on the side wall of US Bank at 4827 Newport Ave. The murals are vivid and give members of the community a chance to leave their own mark on the seaside neighborhood.