SAN DIEGO-based plein air painter, Paul Strahm, brings out the FINE in America’s FINEST City in his vivid, internationally collected paintings. Each image is thoughtfully painted to capture the landscape, lifestyle of the area, and its people. Viewing this fine artist’s work will pull you into the scene —again and again — offering you memories that last a lifetime.
Strahm’s passion for painting began when he was young, as did his love for the outdoors. His rural Ohio upbringing allowed him to intimately explore nature on his family’s country farm. After high school, Paul attended Youngstown State University where he studied art and became fascinated with the French Impressionist painter, Paul Cezanne. Cezanne’s study of nature — through his paintings — influenced Strahm and he began to emulate Cezanne’s natural hues and his love of “plein air” painting. Not long after receiving his fine arts degree in painting, Paul moved west to San Diego, a climate very similar to Cezanne’s favorite haunts in the south of France.
Paul Strahm’s Honors and Awards:
Permanent Collection at the Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego
2014 | Painting titled Cabrillo Bridge was acquired by the Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego, to be part of their Permanent Collection
Featured Artist / Solo Show at the San Diego Art Institute, Featured Artist at the 2013 Coronado Art Walk in Coronado, CA, California Art Club’s Diego Chapter Chairman, Featured Artist for Pacific Beach’s BeachFest Fall Festivals, Juror
• Idyllwild Plein Air Festival (multiple years)
• San Dieguito Art Guild (multiple years)
• North Park Plein Air Competition
Best of Show | Surf was awarded Best of Show
Huntington Beach Plein Air Competition •
Best of Oil or Acrylic
2010 | Fisherman’s Wharf was awarded Best of Oil or Acrylic Carmel Art Festival • Carmel, CA
Best of Show | North Park was awarded Best of Show
North Park Plein Air Painting Competition • San Diego, CA, Juror’s Award | Hacienda del Sol was given the Juror’s Award, Borrego Springs Plein Air Invitational; Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit Award | Bow Bridge was awarded at the 36th Annual Painting & Sculpture Juried Exhibition
Salmagundi Art Club • New York City, NY
1st Place & Honorable Mention | Living Above On Granada St. & Flower Stand
EAA Gallery 1121 W. Grand Avenue, Escondido, CA 442.317.0380 Submission
LIVE ART DEMOAT EAA GALLERY
Thursday, Jan. 9 at 2pm
EAA Gallery 1121 W. Grand Avenue, Escondido, CA 442.317.0380. Our demos are always free and open to the public. All 2025 Demos will be held in the Gallery at an earlier time than last year.
GALLERY RECEPTION
Saturday, Jan. 11 at 4-6pm
EAA Gallery 1121 W. Grand Avenue, Escondido, CA 442.317.0380 Always free and open to the public.
Escondido Art Association | 121 W Grand Avenue | Escondido, CA 92025
California Center For The Arts -Carols By Candlelight
This holiday season, join us for two unforgettable music nights while making a difference!
The 35th annual Carols by Candlelight is back, and we’re thrilled to invite you to be part of this heartwarming event benefiting Rady Children’s Hospital.
Both nights promise an amazing blend of holiday spirit, hit songs, and a true community effort to support the incredible work of Rady Children’s Hospital.
California Center For The Arts 340 N Escondido Blvd, Escondido CA
Escondido Art Association
Board Member and Fundraising Director Christine Spencer’s exciting Halloween decorations in the Historic District.
This month’s judge is a new one for EAA, but a friend to Escondido artists, as she is a member of the Distinction Gallery right down the street. Welcome Megan Darrough! October is a fun month with its holiday beginnings, spooky happenings and festive cheer. Please welcome this new demo artist/judge to our line up and make her feel welcome!
This month’s show is called “Myths and Monsters Exhibition, ” and we sure hope our member artists have fun with this show theme. Feel free to use this theme as your reference but do not be tied down to it; we accept all entries in all five categories every month and you do not need to match the theme to submit.
Join us by submitting a new painting, collage, sculpture or some other exciting fine art creation. Please remember to download our Newest Submission paperwork on the Submissions Page of our website and hang your painting properly with D-rings. See our SUBMISSION page for wiring instructions. All entries must be properly wired prior to submitting.
Megan Darrough
From our neighbors at Distinction Gallery, Megan Misako Darrough is a freelance Artist and Illustrator who resides in San Diego, California. She works in both traditional and digital mediums: Adobe photoshop, Adobe illustrator, pen & ink, oil and acrylic painting, as well as polymer clay for sculpting and ball-jointed doll making. During Halloween season she works as a haunted house scare actor and does SFX makeup (“Special Effects”) for monsters and zombies at her father’s company: Dead Time Dreams® Haunted Attractions.
Megan holds a BFA from the California College of the Arts in San Francisco.
She likes green tea ice cream, and dressing up like zombies.
Please pick up your art either the Friday prior to Take In on Saturday or at the time of drop off if you are entering the next show. We do not have room to store art, and your art will be placed on the floor. We cannot accept responsibility for any damages if it is left behind.
Up to 3 pieces of art submitted per artist. Please do not exceed the size limitation of 36″ on either side including frame. Please properly wire your paintings before submitting them to the gallery; see our hanging requirements on the SUBMISSIONS page of our website.
NORTH COUNTY VETERANS STAND DOWN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:
We are still looking for a few good EAA men and women to help us at the annual North County Veterans Stand Down event in Vista. We will have a booth for a collective art project as with every year we attend. We are looking for people to do at least one shift, multiple artists helping.
The event runs all day October 17, 18 and 19 at Green Oak Ranch, 1237 Green Oak Road, Vista, CA 92081
We especially need volunteers for Saturday October 19. EAA will provide supplies but we are always looking for more donations to help with these volunteer charitable events.
Since our October Judge, Megan Darrough, works with Distinction Gallery down the street from us, we have been invited to do a Reception Caravan on the night of our own Gallery Reception, Saturday Oct 12. The Distinction solo show is “Pre-Apocalyptic Landscapes” by Gabe Leonard from 6-10pm. We can walk down the street to Distinction Gallery after our own reception (4-6pm)… AND Gabe has traditionally made his October show a COSTUME Reception, so he is encouraging people to come dressed up! In past years we have asked people to dress like his art, but this time he said anything goes! Show up in your best costume in any style for a chance to win his book set valued at $1000!
This is a great time to get a second use out of your Halloween costume, to see more beautiful art, and to make good community outreach to a neighbor gallery! Join us!
Distinction Gallery is located at 317 E. Grand Avenue.
People’s Choice Award
EAA’s brand new award opportunity by vote in the gallery…
The People’s Choice Award is chosen right at the monthly Reception! Join us on 2nd Saturday at 4-6pm for our free and open to the public monthly art reception and vote for YOUR favorite!
CONGRATULATIONS, WENDY NELSON ON YOUR SEPTEMBER PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
“Huntington Beach Pier”
Oil on Canvas
NFS
ARTIST LISTINGS!
Are you taking advantage of this amazing MEMBERS ONLY perk? If not, why not?!
EAA supports our members in such an amazing variety of ways. As you can see on our website, on the ARTISTS page, we have LISTINGS available for our members for only $35! That is a one-time fee you never need to pay again, as long as you keep your membership status current. This is an effective marketing tool for members to attract potential customers.
Go to ARTISTS on our website for more information or to purchase.
ARTIST OPPORTUNITIES!
Artists!! For those of you who enjoy selling your artwork and/or crafts, we have found a NEARLY FREE OPPORTUNITY for you! You can bring your canopy, table and crafts to the brand new HIDDEN FARMERS MARKET on Sundays and sell without paying expensive booth rental.
We’re not kidding when we say it’s nearly free. It’s just $2 (yes you heard us right, two bucks!) for the rental and only 10% commission on sales.
Find out a lot more about this wonderful opportunity from the market’s director, Mike Johnson.
Internship Overview -Flexible program with your school schedule; approx. 6-9 hours per week
(this is an average; school requirements vary, semesters vary)
The Escondido Art Association and Artists Gallery, located at 121 W. Grand Avenue in Escondido, seeks a Gallery Intern and a Social Media Intern (we can support up to 3 interns of each position) with an art-related major, marketing or digital media Design to support the Escondido Art Association Board and volunteers. Qualified Intern will learn gallery procedures, including but not limited to gallery hanging of monthly shows, exhibition schedule, social media marketing, videography, support reception events, and educational programming.
Specific Duties for each Role (Gallery Intern vs. Social Media Inter) but MAY include such duties as:
A. Sit Gallery 6 hrs per week—two 3-hr shifts, held separately or same day.
B. Learn and implement gallery procedures, including opening/closing, cleaning, organizing files, and gallery sales/receipts/recording system (Point of Sale system).
C. Learn an overview of EAA programs, including knowledge of the schedule of exhibitions.
D. Assist Social Media Marketing with photography, videography, hashtagging, and posting on Instagram and Facebook. FILMMAKING IS OUR EMPHASIS for this Internship in the months moving forward. We are looking for short-form content for social media marketing, focusing on the Gallery, the paintings, our artist interviews, and other social media content.
E. Assist events/art receptions with refreshments and event set-up. Take photos and post them on social media. Take tickets or sell art auction items.
F. Receive/check/respond to emails from the leadership team.
G. Light graphic design on Canva, including but not limited to content creation for posters, reels, and other social media posts.
H. Promote the college internship program to implement the next internship and assist in replacement training.
I. Assist with website development, Facebook and Instagram alignment, and video editing.
J. Assist in take-in and art submission for the monthly art event.
MORE DETAILED SPECIFICS CAN BE FOUND ON THE EDUCATION PAGE OF OUR WEBSITE.
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO APPLY, PLEASE SEND AN EMAIL with your inquiry including resume to:
SUBJECT HEADING: EAA COLLEGE INTERNSHIP TELL A FRIEND!
Gallery Director Update –Veronica Anderson-Cain
Back Wall rental for oversized pieces will increase to $70.00 per month.
If you would like to rent the back wall for oversized pieces or a selection of several pieces to fit that size of that wall, please inquire at the EAA Gallery on Take-in day which is always the 1st Saturday monthly between 11am-4pm.
Art Pick Up – Attention all artists! New policy regarding pick up on your art when it comes down from previous month’s show. Your paintings will only be held for 30 days. Each artist will be reminded several times during that 30-day period. The remaining art must be placed on the floor where it is not safe, and we are not responsible for any damage. We will contact you throughout the month to remind you. Thank you for picking up your art.
Gallery Co-Director Gail Eason is stepping down from her role due to family responsibilities and wishes EAA well as she moves forward on her own journey.
Veronica Anderson-Cain will continue on as Gallery Director
SOCIAL MEDIA INTERACTION!
WE WANT YOUR INTERACTION! If you are on Instagram or Facebook, please give us a follow. Interacting with EAA on Facebook and Instagram helps us pop up higher in the feed through the algorithm. We NEED those interactions through your LIKES and COMMENTS.
Please be sure to FOLLOW us as well. Here are your links to begin:
A HUGE THANK YOU to Steve Hart and Suzanne Nicolaisen for purchasing supplies, prepping and painting the EAA back wall, in preparation for the next Esco Alley Art murals!
There will be four 8′ x 8′ murals and two 4′ x 8′ murals installed in the parking area. Thank you, Team!
Artist Spotlight – Kat Furrow
Mixed-media artist Kat Furrow, Vice President of Programs at Escondido Art Association, retired US Navy Chief Torpedoman (SW), full-time student with Arizona State University, grandmother, mom, and dedicated community volunteer, has been gifted an incredible opportunity! Kat has been invited to participate in the Savage Wonder Festival of Veterans in the Arts, Beacon, New York, from October 11 to October 13, 2024.
Selected by Christopher Paul Meyer, the Artistic Director and founder of Veterans Repertory Theater (VetRep), Kat will be one of seven featured visual artists at The Savage Wonder Festival of Veterans in the Arts.
Filled with vibrant colors and layered with bold textures, her unique perspective and experience as a retired US Navy veteran will make for a compelling addition to this experience and showcase her artistic style and her “art everyday” approach to living.
Kat is committed to using art as an “art everyday” tool for healing and providing hope for veterans, women, youth, and their families. Her first-hand experience with the transformative power of art on individuals solidifies her goal of extending this power to a broader audience.
On track to graduate in the summer of 2025 with a Bachelor of Sciences in Counseling and Applied Sciences, her mission is to further her education in clinical psychology, focusing on art therapy and trauma. Deeply grateful to all who support her journey, Kat is proud to represent the veteran artist community, connect with fellow veteran artists, share her story, and inspire others to aspire through her artwork.
Stay in-the-know Escondido downtown happenings! Thanks to the DBA:
Downtown Business Association:
Grand Avenue Festival / Downtown – Sunday, October 20th
Dia De Los Muertos / Ca Center for the Arts and the adjacent Great Green area, Friday, November 1st
Construction for Phase II of the Grand Avenue Vision Plan will begin on September 30th. Parking on Grand will be affected.
Escondido Tamale Festival / Grape Day Park, Saturday, November 2nd
Escondido Public Art Scavenger Hunt–MAGEC event–Saturday October 26
Trick or Treat on Grand–Thursday October 31st; EAA will be participating. Bring Candy and a SMILE if you’re sitting that day.
Community in Unity–Chamber of Commerce event at City Hall–Thursday December 5th
Weekly and Monthly Classes
Please visit our website Education page to see various classes available now, including Open Studio, Watercolor Monday’s, and upcoming Workshops. We also have a rich history of arts educational programming for children.
Kids Drawing
We are excited to offer a new Kid’s drawing class with Ms. Kara!
Ms. Kara will offer five draw-along art classes for kids on the third Saturday of each month from August 2024 through December 2024, with plans to continue in 2025. Ms. Kara’s kids drawing classes will take place at the Escondido Art Association gallery from 11:30 AM to 12:30 AM for 15 kiddos. The cost is $15 per student, with all drawing materials provided, and the age range is flexible.
Dates are as follows: 10/19, 11/16 and 12/21.
Adult Art Classes:
CONSTRUCTION NEWS
The Downtown Business Association is pleased to announce the start of Phase II of the Grand Avenue Vision Project on September 30th, 2024! This phase aims to enhance the pedestrian experience and attract more customers to our beautiful downtown and your business. Key improvements include:
Wider, More Inviting Sidewalks: Increased foot traffic means more potential customers!
Safer, Improved Intersections: Traffic circles will add beauty and improve traffic flow.
Enhanced Lighting: Brighter streets create a welcoming atmosphere.
Important Construction Updates: Keeping businesses informed about construction progress is a priority for the City. We will be sending out weekly email updates to highlight important construction details and activities. Please review the upcoming construction highlights:
Where is construction taking place? Construction for Phase II will take place on Grand Avenue from Juniper St to Maple St. To minimize disruptions, work will be divided into three sections:
Section 1: Juniper to Kalmia: September 30th – December 2024
Section 2: Kalmia to Broadway: November 2024 – December 2024
Section 3: Broadway to Maple: January 2025 – Spring 2025
When will construction crews be working? Construction will take place Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Temporary Traffic Changes: During construction of each section, Grand Avenue will be closed. However, access to your business will always be maintained.
Removal of Street Dining: All street dining will be removed by our contractor, Nationwide, on September 30 including the black railing barricades, planters and wine barrels. The restaurants will need to remove all other material from the street the morning of Saturday, September 28. You do not need tostack the railings, you can leave them where they are.
Sidewalk Dining: The sidewalk dining in Section 1 (Juniper to Kalmia) must be removed by Saturday, September 28. All items that the business wishes to keep, should be removed by the business this includes but is not limited to lighting, tables, chairs, covers, shades, etc. The contractor will remove the railing on sidewalk, which will be recycled. Sidewalk dining for Sections 2 and 3 (Kalmia to Maple) can remain until construction moves to the sidewalk. As we receive updated construction timelines from our contractor, the City will inform the restaurants of the removal date.
Staying Open & Thriving During Construction:
We understand construction can be disruptive. Our goal is to help minimize the impact by supporting businesses throughout construction by doing the following:
Open for Business Signs: We’ll install prominent signage throughout downtown to let everyone know businesses are open! You may have noticed some of these signs last week during Cruisin’ Grand.
Easy Parking Guidance: We’ll provide clear information on nearby parking options through various channels including an interactive online google map.
Holiday Season Boost: We are working with the DBA and our contracts to continue the holiday cheer throughout construction.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Dear EAA Members,
I am writing to share that I have made the difficult decision to step down as President of the EAA, as my family and I have decided to head east and relocate somewhere better suited for our needs.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have served this wonderful community and confident that the EAA will continue to thrive. I’m pleased to announce that Tokeli has accepted the role of Interim President and will carry forward the work we’ve started together.
Thank you all for your support during my time as President.
I know this is a bit of a surprise, and this wasn’t the plan, but apparently, it’s really hard to get rid of me (ask Joe). So, I’m back! I am so appreciative to Steve Hart for his friendship, his leadership, and his technical expertise–which has literally catapulted EAA into the future! We all love you and wish you safe travels wherever the road takes you.
I will remain as EAA’s interim President until June 2025 when we hold our annual elections. (We call this “interim” position during the period until our next election in June, which is the end of our fiscal year. If no other candidate steps forward, well, folks, then I guess you’ll be stuck with me again for another term.)
My personal goal this time around is BALANCE. I am striving for a healthy balance in my life, while still offering my dedicated service to our beautiful little community of artists.
I have always strived for visionary leadership and the ability to bring positive growth to our organization. I am still interested in EAA’s long-term fiscal health, the growth of its programming, our continued pursuit of strong partnerships in the community, and the satisfaction of our members. The Board of Directors is a strong leadership team and with a spirit of togetherness, hard work, and hope, we can make anything possible! (There are already a couple of hot new ideas brewing, but I’ll reveal all that later…oh, and definitely hold the date Saturday December 14th for a really special event!)
Thank you for welcoming me back and allowing me to be of service to our community. Please reach out if you have any questions, concerns, ideas or just want to say hi.
Warm wishes from Tokeli…
Tokeli Baker Escondido Art Association President (Interim)
This month’s judge is a very special new muralist and art activist, Mario Torero, known for 45 years of socially conscious art in the form of murals and sculpture throughout Chicano Park in downtown San Diego.
Please welcome Mario as our judge and demo artist in September!
This month’s show is called “UNITY: Exposición de la Unidad.” What a wonderful theme idea for our time, Unity. Feel free to use this theme as your reference but do not be tied down to it; we accept all entries in all five categories every month and you do not need to match the theme to submit. (Find out more about Show Themes in the Gallery Directors Update.)
Join us by submitting a new painting, collage, sculpture or some other exciting fine art creation. Please remember to download our Newest Submission paperwork on the Submissions Page of our website and hang your painting properly with D-rings. See our SUBMISSION page for wiring instructions. All entries must be properly wired prior to submitting.
Mario Torero
Mario Torero is an artist and activist, most known over the last 45 years for an extensive body of socially conscious mural work produced in different cities throughout the United States and around the world. With a long history of involvement in both local and global arts and progressive movements,
Mario has come to be seen as a legendary figure with deep roots in the San Diego cultural arts community. As a co-founder he has contributed more than twenty standing murals at Chicano Park and three sculptures; other murals devoted to social awareness continue to appear in different parts of the County.
Mario is also a founding and continuing member of Centro Cultural de la Raza in Balboa Park, and was a co-founding board member and Arts Commissioner for the San Diego Commission of Arts and Culture. Over the years, he has led several national and international artistic and cultural exchanges, all the while developing his unique artistic style, which he calls Cosmic Art. Son of beloved San Diego artist Guillermo Acevedo, Mario runs the Mundo Gallery in University Heights where he exhibits his and father’s works.
Mario has consistently been visiting Peru in the recent years collaborating and promoting a cross exchange of cultures, Peruvian and Chicano/American artists and students. The project is called, “Pilgrimage to Machu Picchu”
Two years ago more than nineteen of his original mix media art on paper were purchased by the Library of Congress for their permanent collection.
For more information about this artist judge, please visit his website at:https://mariotorero.art/
Dates to Remember:
September Take in: Saturday September 7 (1st Saturday of September) from 11am-4pm (3 painting entry limit).
Live Art Demo: Thursday, September 12 at 6:30pm at the California Center for the Arts, Concert Hall Lobby.
Gallery Reception: Saturday, September 14th at 4-6pm at the EAA Gallery located at 121 W. Grand Avenue
Pick up your art after the show:(11am-4pm) October 4 or 5.
Art Take-in for this show will be the first Saturday, September 7, between 11am and 4pm at the EAA Gallery located at 121 W. Grand Avenue.
In thanks to the Community Collaboration established between the Escondido Art Association and the California Center for the Arts Foundation, we are pleased to announce that the Live Art Demonstration by Mario Torero will be presented on Thursday September 12th at 6:30pm at the California Center for the Arts Museum which is located at 340 N. Escondido Blvd, Escondido.
Please pick up your art either the Friday prior to Take In on Saturday or at the time of drop off if you are entering the next show. We do not have room to store art, and your art will be placed on the floor. We cannot accept responsibility for any damages if it is left behind.
Good news: we’ve gone back up to 3 paintings per artist. Please do not exceed the size limitation of 36″ on either side including frame. Please properly wire your paintings before submitting them to the gallery; see our hanging requirements on the SUBMISSIONS page of our website.
SITTERS! A message from our new Gallery Directors:
ATTENTION – A MESSAGE FROM OUR NEW GALLERY DIRECTORS TO OUR GALLERY SITTERS: Sitters that are on the calendar the Wednesday following Take-in will be asked to text the artist(s) of any artwork(s) that have not been picked up. A list of names and phone numbers will be provided to you. This will fall to the sitters on that Wednesday following take in. Thank you!
ART FORUM ANNOUNCEMENT: Our Art Forum Program is currently ON HOLD. There will be no meetings until further notice. Thank you.
NEW THING! EAA loves to try new things! We are doing a New Thing starting NOW, with having member Artists come paint their own projects inside the gallery (indoors, in the AC don’t worry!) in an effort to draw more traffic off the street into the gallery. Selected artists will bring their own supplies and work on an art project so that customers can watch the magic happen in real time! We also know this will be a wonderful opportunity to sell artist’s work. This is a MEMBER PERK so let’s drive that traffic into the gallery!
The normal commission structure stands for artwork completed in the gallery and then sold in-person. We hope this will attract new customers to our gallery.
Our beloved Past President Advisor Pat Hunter is spearheading this effort and has dates available for you. Please email her at pathunter@escondidoartassociation.org
WE NEED YOUR HELP: EAA is looking for small, free gifts to give to visitors to the gallery from the Grand Tea Room starting in September. Do you make cards, jewelry, bookmarks or other small ticket items and have a surplus? Clear out your storage by giving to our new Gallery Directors to distribute to our guests. For more information, email Veronica Anderson-Cain at veronicaac@escondidoartassociation.org
OTHER NEW VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES ON OUR WEBSITE: VOLUNTEER
People’s Choice Award
EAA’s brand new award opportunity by vote in the gallery!
Come to our 2nd Saturday reception at the Gallery 4-6pm and vote!
CONGRATULATIONS TO CON SLACK for his People’s Choice Award win for August 2024, a homemade wooden pull toy called “Whimsical Dragon” for sale now at the EAA Gallery.
OPEN STUDIO REBOOT!
EAA member artists may have heard that we have a new Open Studio Facilitator in wonderful artist/teacher Craig Reesor! This is an excellent time to jump in to the Open Studio program if you’ve never taken a class before, as Craig is redesigning the structure and format of the classes as we speak.
Here’s what Craig says:
“I’m from a large family where I was immersed in the arts from a young age. My mother was an avid painter, while my father was in law enforcement. Early on I expressed a strong interest in the fine arts. I was exposed to many art books at home, visited art galleries in Laguna Beach, and pursued the fine arts in school.
Upon entering high school, I had instructors take notice of my talent, and was hired to work for North Clackamas School District. While there I gained hands on experience designing print materials to support education. I worked as an apprentice for three years with my mentor, Dee Boyles, who had a strong influence on me. Dee Boyles was a highly respected graphic artist, and oil painter in Portland Oregon.
I entered the United States Air Force upon graduation from high school. My passion in art led to an opportunity to work as the squadron artist. I created murals and other artwork on several bases around the world. I contributed to air museums, and my largest piece of art was featured on the walls of a large aircraft hangar. My work gained notice from congressmen and generals.
After serving in the USAF, I continued working as a freelance illustrator and painter. Financial pressure and the desire to support a family led me to another career in law enforcement, although I continued to always devote time to painting.
I consider myself a representational artist, with an emphasis on landscape and portraiture. I enjoy expressing myself in various mediums and continue today enjoying sharing my skills with others.
We are developing the class according to what the artists wants. The class is flexible and each individual can work on whatever art project they want to bring in. As an instructor/facilitator, I can offer an opinion, and help with a variety of mediums. The class is designed to be a no stress, relaxed environment. There will be some group work, as well as individual work. I will offer some example work, and invite different artist into the class that can teach more examples of different mediums, and approaches. I understand that as artists we all have individual styles, and levels of art abilities. The class is meant to address this fact.
The room has great lighting with high ceilings, temperature control, clean-up stations, and table, and chairs. Bottled water, baked goods, and music are also available. Still life, and figure drawing/painting will be offered. Plein air, and settings can be decided by individual artists. Most importantly, Open Studio is a community of artists that can grow, and learn from each other in a great environment! Each artist is required to bring in their own materials to create their own art.”
We are so excited about the all new and improved exciting Open Studio weekly class, we hope you’ll join us soon! For more information, visit the EDUCATION page of our website.
We are so lucky to have Craig Reesor as our facilitator for the new and improved Open Studio, we hope you’ll join us!
ARTIST LISTINGS!
Are you taking advantage of this amazing MEMBERS ONLY perk? If not, why not?!
EAA supports our members in such an amazing variety of ways. As you can see on our website, on the ARTISTS page, we have LISTINGS available for our members for only $35! That is a one-time fee you never need to pay again, as long as you keep your membership status current. This is an effective marketing tool for members to attract potential customers.
Go to ARTISTS on our website for more information or to purchase.
ARTIST OPPORTUNITIES!
Artists!! For those of you who enjoy selling your artwork and/or crafts, we have found a NEARLY FREE OPPORTUNITY for you! You can bring your canopy, table and crafts to the brand new HIDDEN FARMERS MARKET on Sundays and sell without paying expensive booth rental.
We’re not kidding when we say it’s nearly free. It’s just $2 (yes you heard us right, two bucks!) for the rental and only 10% commission on sales.
Find out a lot more about this wonderful opportunity from the market’s director, Mike Johnson.
Hi all, we are your new Gallery Directors, Gail Eason and Veronica Anderson-Cain. We are delighted to be a part of the EAA and continue to support the mission of the EAA and its involvement with the community, advancing the arts though our gallery shows, classes and demonstrations.
For the moment we are feverishly re-organizing the back room supplies. As you may or may not know we have very limited space for a lot of STUFF but very soon it will look like a new space. In the meantime, please understand that we cannot take any further donations of any kind, small or large. Once we are finished with the re-org perhaps we’ll have an ART Supply sale. Just a thought. Hold your donations as they may be useful for that event. Thank you in advance for your help and please feel free to reach out to either of us.
PICK UP OF ART -To all our lovely artists. Please pick up your art the day before first Saturday take-in, the day of take-in if you are submitting once again OR the following week.
PLEASE NOTE, we do not have room to store art and your wonderful art pieces have to be put on the floor, not the safest of places. Limited space in the back. Thank YOU!
SHOW THEMES
We know show themes can be confusing sometimes. Please remember that the show theme is a “suggestion,” like a spark to your creativity, an inspiration, a muse. Don’t think of it as limiter.
So, for this month, we have a show theme of UNITY. What does “Unity” mean to you as an artist? It can mean different things to different artists.
Unity implies both beauty and power; it creates harmony. Things that don’t necessarily go together can act as one. Red and green? More powerful together than apart. Abstract and Realism? Their lines and shapes excite a dance together. Unity is as simple as a field of wildflowers blowing in the wind as one, or complex as opponents coming together for a higher cause. What does it mean to YOU? We look forward to seeing your creativity on the EAA walls!
Gallery Volunteer NEWS – From David Allen – Gallery Volunteer Coordinator = As you know the EAA is an all-volunteer gallery. It takes a village of volunteers to keep our doors open to the public. I want to thank all our volunteers for the time that they give when they sit in the gallery. Thank you for your trusted and diligent service. Without you and your dedication we’d not be open on the days that we are.For gallery duty questions and sitting dates please contact David Allen at: cell: 619-370-1795 davidallen@escondidoartassociation.org
Kids Drawing
We are excited to offer a new Kid’s drawing class with Ms. Kara!
Ms. Kara will offer five draw-along art classes for kids on the third Saturday of each month from August 2024 through December 2024, with plans to continue in 2025. Ms. Kara’s kids drawing classes will take place at the Escondido Art Association gallery from 11:30 AM to 12:30 AM for 15 kiddos. The cost is $15 per student, with all drawing materials provided, and the age range is flexible.
Dates are as follows: 8/17, 9/21, 10/19, 11/16 and 12/21. PURCHASE
LOCAL EVENTS
Stay in-the-know Escondido downtown happenings! Thanks to the DBA: Downtown Events:
Musica En La Plaza-El Grito / Grape Day Park – Friday, September 13th
Grape Day Festival / Grape Day Park – Saturday, September 14th
Grape Day 5K / Downtown – Saturday, September 14th
Fiesta Patrias Festival / Grape Day Park – Sunday, September 15th
Grand Avenue Festival / Downtown – Sunday, October 20th
Dia De Los Muertos / Ca Center for the Arts and the adjacent Great Green area, Friday, November 1st
Escondido Tamale Festival / Grape Day Park, Saturday, November 2nd
5th Annual Vet Fest and Parade on Grand – Monday, November 11th
Small Business Saturday / Downtown – Saturday, November 30th
Other events:
San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum – Fundraising Event, Saturday, September 7th
4th Annual Chamber Cup Challenge Golf Tournament – Friday, September 13th at The Vineyard at Escondido
9th Annual Mega Mixer and Business Expo – Wednesday, September 25th at the Center for the Arts
2nd Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Business Awards – Wednesday, September 25th at the Center for the Arts
Weekly and Monthly Classes
Please visit our website Education page to see various classes available now, including Open Studio, Watercolor Monday’s, and upcoming Workshops. EDUCATION
For Kene’s Beginner Watercolor class, please email Kene directly. kenelohmann@cox.net
“Art Every Day” Mixed Media Workshop
KAT FURROW hosts these step by step tutorial classes monthly with refreshments. You don’t even have to bring supplies!!! Everything is provided for you. Kat’s skills and compassion give new artists confidence to approach mixed media without fear. Take on a new hobby today, or tell a friend who has always wanted to try making art!
See EDUCATION and then MASTERCLASS WORKSHOPS for more information. Click below for link for more information.
We have had a very productive month! This month, we held our annual Vision Summit to recap the key takeaways from our recent membership survey. We explored opportunities for changes to our programming next year to better serve our membership and identified numerous ways for our members to get involved! As an all-volunteer organization, we rely solely on the support of our members. If you are interested in being part of our team and doing some really cool stuff in our community, please let us know.
Remember, art has the power to transform not just canvases but entire communities. Together, let’s continue to paint a brighter, more vibrant future for the Escondido Art Association!
The Guns are back in the gazebo on Grand for another season! We will be there on Opening Night and the first Friday of each month, May-September. Get you motors running!
We are happy to announce Cruisin Grand 2024 season will begin Friday May 3rd ! Special thanks to O’REILLY auto parts and the Rincon band of Luiseno Indians. This iconic event is in its 24th season. We still are looking for sponsors to help carry this event throughout the season. Also visit our website cruisingrand.net
Escondido Art Association – January 2024 Winners
BEST OF SHOW Craig Reeser “Old Man”
EXCITING NEWS: We had a RECORD SETTING number of entries yet again with our January show, “And Now For Something Completely Different!” YAY! We hope you will come visit the gallery with friends and family to see all of this beautiful work! The January 2024 Exhibition opens tomorrow and runs through February 2. The next take in is February 3 and the show theme is “Seeing Red! Passion Play” judged by Igor Koutsenko. This show will be a co-production with LoveEsco. Please visit the SUBMISSIONS page of our website for more information about hang your artwork. Thank you to ALL of our artists who participate in our shows.
OIL
1st Place: “Closing Time” by George Mrazek
2nd Place: “Cliffs at Torrey Pines” by Doris Bertch
3rd Place: “Hidden” by Sean Cathey
ACRYLIC
1st Place: “Sailing” by Byron Marler
2nd Place: “Sticks and Stones” by Lorraine Page
3rd Place: “Cool Blues” by Carole Kuck
MIXED MEDIA
1st Place: “Horsin’ Around in Nightmare Alley” by Larry Baker
2nd Place: “Presence” by Daniel Tobin
3rd Place: “Freddie” by Ginger Samuels
WATERCOLOR
1st Place: “Flurry” by Karen Langer Baker
2nd Place: “Pacific: Cool Waters” by Kathryn Peterson
3rd Place: “Babe” by Jinx Lennon
PHOTOGRAPHY AND DIGITAL MEDIA
1st Place: “The Library Has Eyes” by Peggy Stokes
2nd Place: “Dreamscape: Falling/Failing” by Tokeli Baker
3rd Place: “Can I Trust You?” by Peggy Stokes
HONORABLE MENTIONS
“Time Out of Mind” by Sean Cathey
“Painting Plein Air” by Craig Reesor
“Persian Delights” by Karen Langer Baker
“Teamwork” by Kene Lohmann
“Bradbury Buiding” by Roy Henderson
ALL OF OUR WONDERFUL AWARD WINNERS HAVE PHOTOS UP ON OUR WEBSITE ON THE AWARDS PAGE. CLICK BUTTON TO SEE WEBSITE .AWARDS
DATES TO REMEMBER:
LIVE ART DEMO AT CCAE MUSEUM –Thursday, Jan. 11 at 6:30pm
California Center for the Arts Escondido Museum 340 N. Escondido Blvd. , Escondido, CA 92025
Presented in COMMUNITY COLLABORATION with California Center for the Arts Escondido Foundation. Our demos are always free and open to the public as a service to our community. So bring a friend!
GALLERY RECEPTIONSaturday, Jan. 13 at 4-6pm
EAA GALLERY 121 W. Grand Avenue, Escondido, CA 92025 442-317-0980
Always free and open to the public. POTLUCK: Bring a dish to share!
Escondido Jaycee’s Christmas Parade 2023 : Saturday, December 9 at 10 a.m. along Grand Avenue and downtown Escondido. Road closures will be in place starting at 9:30 a.m. Saturday. City parking lots #1, #3, #5, & #7 will be closed starting at 10 p.m. on Friday.
Head to Grape Day Park starting at 11 a.m. for the Escondido Holiday Festival. This tradition includes something for the whole family, including live music, shopping, food vendors, and Santa will be in the park as well.
Greater Escondido Chamber of Commerce Announces
3rd Annual “Best of Escondido Eats” Awards
Chamber’s Facebook Group Continues To Grow, Over 10,000 Votes This Year
ESCONDIDO – Food, food, glorious food. If one thing can bring a community together, if there is one thing in common with most everyone, and if one thing can elicit fond memories and experiences, it is food. And in Escondido if you want to know where to eat, what to eat, when to eat, and what you’ll be eating looks like there is only one place to go: Escondido Eats.
This program was created at the very beginning of the pandemic by the Greater Escondido Chamber of Commerce and the City of Escondido to assist all the struggling businesses in the food and beverage industry. However, the Chamber took it to the next level by creating a Facebook group that has grown in that short time to over 16,800 members and has more than 25,000 weekly comments! In fact, the Escondido Eats program earned the 2022 Excellence in North County Economic Development award from the San Diego North Economic Development Council.
With that type of engagement, it only made sense in 2021 to create the inaugural “Best of Escondido Eats” awards, which was a huge success with 17 categories and over 4,000 unique votes. However, this year the Chamber added several new categories upping the total to 20, including a “People’s Choice” category and participation was more than double the first year with over 10,500 unique votes in 2023!
To celebrate this year’s winners the Greater Escondido Chamber of Commerce will be hosting and presenting the awards at their September mixer being held at The Churchill House on Thursday, September 14th from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. More information can be found at www.greaterescondido.org
About The Greater Escondido Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1886 as the Escondido Board of Trade, the Greater Escondido Chamber of Commerce is one of the oldest Chambers in the state of California. Our goal is to build a stronger local economy by empowering businesses, engaging the community, providing networking opportunities, assisting economic development, and being a liaison to local government and elected officials.
Cruisin’ Grand is honored to be called one of the best cruises in the country. We try to keep it simple, and focus only on what works with our community history, i.e. 1973 and earlier American-made Classics, Customs, Vintage, Muscle, and Hot Rods cruising Grand Ave, just like they did 50-60- years ago, on a Friday night, hopefully shoulder-to-shoulder with a date!
We invite those same cars to park on Grand Avenue and side streets and enjoy the early 50’s setting of downtown Escondido.
Events & Information
– Parking for event-era cars is on Grand Avenue and side streets, from Escondido to Ivy Street.
– “Reserved” parking area for local/regional 73 and earlier American made Car Clubs who pre-reserve a night.
– Awards weekly for five selected cars. No pre-registration. No fees. Just fun!
– Restaurants cafes, pubs, specialty retail stores open late.
– Family-friendly features Hula Hoops, Name That Tune contests, and more.
“We are pleased to welcome you all to the 70th Annual Escondido Jaycees Christmas Parade, ‘Miracle on Grand Avenue!’ “The parade will start promptly at 2:00pm. “Our parade’s route will be in historic Downtown Escondido! “Come join us and support local businesses and organizations!”
Stone and Glass: Coexistence of Man and Reef Room Divider by James Stone
Stone and Glass629 W. Grand Ave.Escondido, CA 92025 Hours: Sunday to Wednesday by appointment, Thursday to Saturday 11 am to 6 pm James Stone, an award-winning ocean conservation mixed media sculpture artist, is an environmentally conscience glass artisan based in Escondido, CA.
James creates ocean creatures and sea-themed sculptures that depict the magnificence of the ocean’s diverse plants and animals. His eco-awareness message leaps out of the forged aluminum and sculpted glass pieces with the message that fish and other sea life are vanishing at unprecedented rates. Creating a dialogue about climate change, overfishing and their devastating effects on the oceans of the world is the heart of James’ work.
Want to commission a special piece of art? As each person is unique each commission is unique. James will design and create art that connects with your soul and brings peace and happiness every time you look at it. Browse his website to see some of his exquisite commissioned pieces.
The Evolution of Transportation Illuminated at the Green Transpo Expo On Saturday, April 23rd, 2022, at the Westfield North County Mall, the Greater Escondido Chamber of Commerce will host their inaugural Green Transpo Expo. As our entire transportation system is changing rapidly, the event focuses on trending topics from how the world is transitioning from gas to electric fleets, to how to convert your home to accommodate this transition.
The event starts with the “Cars & Coffee” meetup that goes from 9 – 11 AM with complimentary coffee and donuts from local businesses. All car enthusiasts and car clubs are invited and encouraged to attend for an inclusive car mashup to merge the past and the future of transportation.
The main event will include an education forum and vendors from 11:30 AM to 4 PM. The Mayor and Chamber CEO will kick off the Expo with a ribbon cutting at 11:30 AM. Additional City, County, and State officials will also attend the kickoff.
An educational forum with Q&A will coincide with the event throughout the day with presenters from SDG&E, the Electric Vehicle Association of San Diego, ALIVE Solar, and more. Rad Power Bikes will also be on hand to test ride bikes, and organizers will be giving away one (1) Rad E-Bike at the end of the event! Online registration is encouraged but not necessary to attend the event.
“This is a very timely event as people are seeing energy prices skyrocket, experiencing the pinch in their wallets and are now, more than ever, looking for alternatives.” says CEO, James Rowten of the Greater Escondido Chamber of Commerce, “Many aren’t quite sure where to start, what’s available or how to implement the alternatives. That is why we’re presenting this event that is all about the evolution of the transportation industry.”
For an agenda of the day, a list of the speakers and topics, online registration, and a comprehensive list of sponsors, please visit the Chamber’s webpage at: www.escondidochamber.org/greentranspoexpo and follow on Instagram @greentranspoexpo.
Escondido, CA –This Year, the Grand Ave Festival, will take place in Escondido’s historic downtown on Grand Ave from Escondido Blvd to Ivy.
Attendees will be able to shop from hundreds of vendors for unique hand-crafted gifts and imports, enjoy international cuisine and local entertainment at the Maple Street Community Stage.
New this year will be a Beer & Wine Garden @ Maple & Grand. And there’s more…Such as the Creative Kids Corner @ Juniper & Grand that will feature Robotic Team Demonstrations from local High Schools, and the ever-popular Art In The Garden at Heritage Garden!
Light Up a Life, a free community event, hosted by The Elizabeth Hospice. Photo Jennifer Regnier Photography
Escondido, CA – October, 2021 – The community is invited to Light Up a Life, a special candle-lighting ceremony to celebrate the people whose lives have warmed their heart and whose memories illuminate their life. This family-friendly event will be hosted by The Elizabeth Hospice on Sunday, November 14, 2021, from 3:30 to 5:30 pm, at the California Center for the Arts at 340 N. Escondido Blvd in Escondido. Light Up a Life blends inspirational messages, music, and a memorial ceremony to lift the hearts of those touched by loss, illness or sorrow. Registration is required by Nov. 5 at https://elizabethhospice.ejoinme.org/Light2021. Admission and parking are free.
All attendees will be invited to light a candle during the memorial ceremony. In support of The Elizabeth Hospice’s nonprofit mission, a donation of $50 is suggested. Individuals can receive a 2021 keepsake ornament with a $100 donation or a personalized ornament with a donation of $250 or more. Information on sponsorship opportunities can be found at https://elizabethhospice.ejoinme.org/Light2021 or by calling 760-796-3708. California Center for the Arts, Escondido, requires all guests wear a face mask.
The Elizabeth Hospice is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides hospice care, palliative care and grief counseling services to everyone in the community, regardless of their ability to pay. The Elizabeth Hospice depends on the generous support of individuals and organizations to continue providing these much-needed services to the community. Donations can be made at elizabethhospice.org/donate.
About The Elizabeth Hospice
The Elizabeth Hospice, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit healthcare leader, provides medical and emotional support to children and adults facing the challenges associated with an advanced life-threatening illness, and restores hope to grieving children and adults who are feeling lost and alone. Since 1978, The Elizabeth Hospice has touched the lives of more than 115,000 people in San Diego County and Southwest Riverside County. The Elizabeth Hospice has earned the Gold Seal of Approval by The Joint Commission and is a member of the California Hospice and Palliative Care Association and the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. To learn more, call 800-797-2050 or visit elizabethhospice.org.
Escondido, CA. (September, 2021) – The wait is finally over. Raising Cane’s will start sharing its ONE LOVE® with more of North County when the fast-growing chicken finger concept makes its Escondido debut today at 1280 W. Valley Parkway.
“Caniacs” will want to join the celebration because Raising Cane’s will accept entries all day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. for its “Lucky 20” drawing to award 20 Customers ages 13 and older Free Cane’s for a Year! The drawing will take place at 8:30 p.m. and winners will be contacted by Cane’s to pick up their prize. Caniacs do not have to be present to win and there’s no purchase necessary. The first 100 dine-in Customers ages 13 and older to purchase a combo meal will also receive a free Cane’s t-shirt and a free combo card to use on their next visit.
“In the past few weeks, we’ve met lots of loyal Caniacs through our sponsorships with Cruisin’ Grand, Plays in the Park, and Escondido Pop Warner Football and Cheer,” said Area Leader of Restaurants Mark Condello. “We’ve developed a loyal following in North County, so we’re thrilled to expand in the area and give Escondido their very own Raising Cane’s. As part of our Grand Opening partnerships, we will be donating to Dogs on Deployment and Escondido Rising Stars.”
Escondido’s new Raising Cane’s will serve Customers through its mobile app, online ordering, takeout, dine-in and its double drive-thru. Open Sunday through Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m., and Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 a.m., Raising Cane’s will be the perfect destination for lunch, dinner and late-night meals. This Restaurant marks the fifth in the San Diego area and 47th in California.
In May, Raising Cane’s was one of just three restaurant brands named to Forbes’ “Best Employers For New Grads” Top 100 list, and the company’s “fast-paced, fun culture and growth opportunities” earned it a spot on Glassdoor’s coveted “100 Best Places to Work in the U.S.” list in 2021. Cane’s is still seeking enthusiastic individuals to join its Escondido Crew. Interested candidates should apply at WorkAtCanes.com. Applicants will be contacted to set up an interview after applying.
ABOUT RAISING CANE’S®: Founded by Todd Graves in 1996 in Baton Rouge, La., RAISING CANE’S CHICKEN FINGERS has more than 570 Restaurants in 31 states and the Middle East with 75 new Restaurants and 20 new markets planned for 2021. The company has ONE LOVE®—quality chicken finger meals—and is continually recognized for its unique business model and customer satisfaction. Raising Cane’s vision is to grow Restaurants, serving our Customers, all over the world and be the brand for quality chicken finger meals, a great Crew, cool Culture and active Community involvement. In addition to being named the “Fastest Growing Chicken Chain” by Nation’s Restaurant News in 2020, Raising Cane’s was also named the #1 fast-casual restaurant for “Keeping Customers Safe.” More information is available at raisingcanes.com.
Cruisin’ Grand 2021
Cruisin’ Grand 2021 Cruisin’ Grand returns this Friday night, June 18th, in downtown Escondido! SoCal Productions and the City of Escondido are excited to welcome this event back for its 21st season.
All of your favorites will return including live music, DJs, kettle corn, and of course, the best display of pre-1974 hotrods in the country! Something a little different this year is the closure of additional streets to allow enough room for street-side dining and retail as well as plenty of space to display the vehicles and allow for spectators.
Each Friday, Grand Avenue will be closed from Escondido Blvd. to Ivy St. and the side streets (Maple St., Broadway, Kalmia, and Juniper) from Second Ave. to Valley Parkway.
201 N Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025 – In an effort to ensure quick and efficient service and to reduce your wait time, we encourage residents to conduct business online with the City using our Online Services Portal.
