Awaken Your Artsy Side in Carlsbad - Fall 2024

Visiting Carlsbad is an invitation to awaken your senses and slow down to appreciate the craftsmanship and stories behind the art. When you’re planning a visit to Carlsbad, try some of these hands-on activities, explore public art or simply be inspired by creativity.

Here’s a few of our favorite ways to awaken your artistic side next time you’re in Carlsbad:

In the center of Carlsbad Village is Handled Pottery Studio. This cozy spot has become a favorite for locals and visitors who want to get their hands dirty and dive into the art of pottery. Their classes and workshops cater to all skill levels to awaken artistic spirits while capturing Carlsbad's cultural essence.

One of the highlights is their “Paint & Sip” evenings, where you can customize a plate, mug or bowl while enjoying your drink of choice. The studio is all about the experience—connecting with others, relaxing and having fun. For a more hands-on challenge, you can check out their handbuilding workshops. These sessions are all about making something personal, whether it's a mug or a planter, you will walk away with something that is uniquely you.

For unconventional date nights, the studio hosts “Date Night/Clay Night” which pairs the casual vibes of the pottery wheel with the satisfying feeling of creating something together. They also host laid-back “Coffee and Clay” mornings and specialized workshops like the mini village-making series. In September and October 2024, the studio will offer “Luminary & Lantern” workshops to craft a luminary or lantern using soft clay slabs and coils. Make sure to sign up for these experiences on Handled Pottery Stuido’s website.

In the historic Barrio neighborhood of Carlsbad, Barrio Glassworks brings the art of glassblowing into the spotlight. This working studio and gallery is a place where you can watch skilled artists shape molten glass into stunning pieces of art. It’s a mesmerizing process, and with summer hours from Tuesday to Sunday, you can drop in whenever you're free—no need to book ahead.

If you’re feeling adventurous, their “Make Your Own” sessions let you try your hand at glassblowing. Under the guidance of experts, you can create your own glass object, like a paperweight or heart, making it a great activity for couples or families looking to do something different together.

The gallery at Barrio Glassworks is also fun to explore. The current exhibit through Fall 2024 is “Carlsbad by the Sea,” featuring marine-themed glass sculptures by artists like Drew Raskin and Logan Nash Groupé. These pieces capture the beauty of the ocean in vibrant, detailed glasswork, making it a must-see for art lovers.

Carlsbad Village is also known for its open-air gallery featuring colorful murals and eclectic art throughout the city. With a map curated by local artist Bryan Snyder, guests can embark on a self-guided mural tour that takes you through the Village’s artistic nooks and crannies. Hidden among the charming Village shops and coastal restaurants, each mural tells a story, showcasing the creativity and spirit of both local and visiting artists. One of the standout pieces is the Carlsbad Art Wall Mural Space where aspiring muralists can practice their painting in an ever-changing space - stop by to see what’s new. This space is at 550 Grand Avenue in Carlsbad Village.

Carlsbad is also home to a variety of galleries and studios such as the North Coastal Art Gallery, Front Porch Gallery and the William D. Cannon Art Gallery. If you’re visiting Carlsbad September 21-22, 2024, there is ArtWalk Carlsbad, held above the Flower Fields of Carlsbad Ranch®. ArtWalk Carlsbad features more than 150 fine artists' work along with interactive art for families at KidsWalk, a full palette of musical performers, food trucks and stands and more.

Lieu De Sculpture in the Carlsbad Village Faire Shopping Center, offers a unique opportunity to explore sculpture. This studio offers flexible classes that allow you to learn at your own pace. Under the guidance of instructor Dana McCullough, guests are encouraged to experiment and create in a supportive, laid-back environment.

If you’d rather admire art than make it, the nearby Carlsbad Sculpture Garden is a serene spot to enjoy some outdoor art by local and regional artists. . The current exhibition through August 30, 2024 is “Fusion: Geometric Garden”, showcasing contemporary sculptures by artists like John Dupree and Vicki Leon. It’s a peaceful place to wander and reflect, and with free admission, it's an easy addition to any visit.

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After exploring the artsy side of Carlbad, you’ll leave with the spark of creativity ignited by your experiences. Art has a way of making us feel connected, not just to the places we visit but to the people and stories that shape them. In Carlsbad, creativity is everywhere, waiting for you to dive in and explore.