Port of San Diego Uplifts Local Art During National October Celebration

The Port of San Diego is showcasing local artists and over 70 artworks in its Tidelands Collection during the Port's "Celebration of Arts Month."

"The beauty of San Diego Bay inspires local artists who sculpt, build, paint, photograph, and create in this region," said Chair Ann Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. "Our artworks are on full display throughout the year to bring free access to creativity on the waterfront. We join thousands of organizations in support of National Arts and Humanities Month to highlight public art."

The Port began its public arts initiatives in the 1980s to help activate its waterfront parks, piers and businesses across its five member cities. Some artworks are commissioned directly by the Port, as seen in Rigors of Flight at Sweetwater Park in Chula Vista and the iconic Surfhenge in front of the Imperial Beach Pier. Others are created through tenant projects and community proposals, which the public can enjoy in Coronado, National City, and San Diego.

The Port regularly invests in commissioning public art and contributing to the San Diego region's creative economy. The Port sought professional artists throughout Southern California and selected Nicole Marie Pete, a Diné digital designer, to create artwork for the splash pad under construction at Portwood Pier Plaza in Imperial Beach.

To experience free public artwork around San Diego Bay, the Port encourages the community to explore San Diego Bay through six self-guided tours. People can spot artwork on the sides of buildings, set into sidewalks, and in open green park spaces.

National Arts and Humanities Month was established in 1993, becoming the nation's largest celebration of arts and culture. This year's theme, "Stories Unite Us," centers on the ties, beliefs and cultures that we share, which are often revealed through creativity. Thousands of government agencies and arts and cultural organizations across the U.S. recognize the value of creativity in our society. The Port carries out this understanding within the organization by encouraging staff, residents, and visitors to engage with public art throughout October.