LONG BEACH — The city will once again be filled with art and music as notable international and local artists come together to create murals and other forms of art and music during the Long Beach Walls and Art Renzei Festival, Aug. 14 – 19. This year’s festival, themed, “Follow Your Bliss,” promises to take visitors on a unique journey of outdoor installations and interactive events that encourage self-reflection and exploration of one’s passion and joy. Festival goers can enjoy 24/7 viewing of the mural art, participate in mural bike tours, enjoy an exhibition by Open Gallery featuring over 30 past and present Long Beach Walls artists, attend artist talks, and much more.
Los Angeles-based artist SUPERWAXX said, “For young artists, who are just beginning to leave their unique imprint in the art world, the festival represents both an opportunity to showcase their work, but also to be inspired by the creative expression of others. “My mission as an artist has always been to use my talents and passion for art to give back and be of service to the global community. Long Beach Walls allows me to fulfill that mission by creating a public artwork that is aimed at uplifting and inspiring the viewers who connect with my work.”
This year more than 600 artists applied to be one of the 19 featured festival artists. The Long Beach Walls worldwide committee reviewed each application and selected a diverse group of local, national and international artists. This year’s lineup will include works from leading artists Dina Saadi, Roshi, Jack Soren, Ryan Griffin, Jason Keam, Stevie Shao, Shar Tui’Asoa, SUPERWAXX, Mister Toledo, Nevermade, Royal Dog, Jess Weymouth, James Shen, Lauren YS, Leho, Crystal Wagner, Jennifer Tran, Balloonski, and Olivia Steele.
The curated journey of self-reflection and exploration of passion and joy is Long Beach’s only week-long outdoor art festival. Since 2015, more than 100 murals in over 40 square miles of Long Beach have been created, producing a unique walkable and bikeable public art experience. Each artist has the freedom to create large format works of art displayed throughout Long Beach, set against the backdrop of parks and ocean vistas, including art installations along Ocean Blvd., Lincoln Park and the Psychic Temple as well as murals located at Renaissance High School, libraries and restaurants.
From Aug. 14 to 19, join active mural painting and activities at the International Mural Festival open. On Aug, 19, enjoy a closing celebration at North Promenade from 6 to 10 p.m. All activities are free to the public and open to all ages.
For event locations and planning information, please visit www.artrenzei.com/passport.
Time: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Aug. 14 to Aug. 19
Details: www.longbeachwalls.com and www.artrenzei.com.