A diverse array of nearly 190 local and international artists will convene for the 24th annual La Jolla Festival of the Arts on June 26 and 27 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the University of California, San Diego East Campus located at Genesee Avenue and Regents Road. The Torrey Pines Kiwanis Foundation produces the event each year to raise funds for San Diegans with disabilities and injured veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. To date, more than $1.7 million has been raised to benefit more than 35,000 adults and children through various programs. This year, street artist Melanie Stimmell Van Latum will transform asphalt into vibrant, intricate artistry using chalk as her medium, along with several contributing artists in a recurring exhibition known as “Calle Color.” This year’s theme is “Illusionary Art” and is expected to inspire anamorphic and 3-D images. Van Latum is the sole female winner of the title of “Maestra Madonnara,” or master street painter, and has contributed to chalk art festivals since 1998, attracting clients from around the world. Trace Palmer will display hand-blown glass jewelry and scenic painter David Skinner will return after two “best in show” awards at previous La Jolla Festival of the Arts. Rocket engineer Bret Webster will share his unique vantage through photography, and Margaret Willmoth Jensen will exhibit her one-of-a-kind contemporary glass wall art. Other artists will show their talents through woodworking, sculpture, painting, drawing and mixed-media creations. Entertainment will include live performances by Rockola, the Mar Dels and other local bands, plus special performances by United States Navy Southwest Brass Band and the United States Navy Destroyers. Warwick’s has corralled several authors and celebrity chefs to host book signings and demonstrations — including the Marine Room’s Bernard Guillas, photographer Mike Torrey and athlete Sarah Reinertsen. A classic car exhibition will feature remodeled automobiles by the Cal-Diego Paralyzed Veterans Association Motorsports Program, the Wicked Stangs Mustang Club and the Austin Healey Club of San Diego. Rare 1960s-era British sports cars, modern muscle cars and race cars have been modified to accommodate disabled drivers. After working up an appetite, guests can stroll along Restaurant Row for a tasty spread of assorted delicacies with from Café Fresh, Barrett’s Lemonade, Chris’ Onolicious Grinds, Desert Coffee Trader, Drift Sushi Catering, Hunter Steakhouse, Muscle Beach Café, 410 Degrees Cookies, Robertson Roasted Almonds and more. Admission to the festival is $10 for adults. Children under age 10 are admitted free. For more information, call (858) 586-1202 or visit www.lajollaartfestival.org.
