ENCINITAS — The lampposts along Coast Highway 101 were void of the unique artwork when the Arts Alive banners were removed in preparation for an upcoming public auction. The 101 banners were scrubbed clean by volunteers at the Super Soft Car Wash, after experiencing the wear and tear of being exposed to the elements since early March.
Mayor James Bond was on hand with his wife Jackie who also painted a banner. The two helped as other artists scrubbed and rinsed the banners. Afterwards, the banners were hung out to dry in front of the Downtown Encinitas MainStreet Association (DEMA) office.
“The artists who painted these banners give freely of their time and talent to create original works of art for the entire community to enjoy,” said Organizer Danny Salzhandler. “This is a good chance to see them up close before the auction.”
Conceived in 2000, the banner program has been adapted in various cities across the country. The six-mile long art show continues to be a favorite for many local residents and visitors.
“It’s always a little sad when they (the banners) come down,” said Pearl Lauder, who was taking her morning stroll past the car wash. “I love the way the artwork brightens up the area and really gives our town a sense of cohesiveness,” she said.
The 101 Artists’ Colony, in conjunction with the DEMA, Cardiff 101 MainStreet and Leucadia 101 MainStreet Association, are sponsors of the banner program. Proceeds from the sale of the banners will be split 50-50 between the artists and the 101 Artists’ Colony, Cardiff 101 MainStreet, or Leucadia 101 MainStreet Association.
Each of the original works of art will be auctioned off to the general public at 2 p.m., June 5 at the Cardiff Town Center Courtyard, San Elijo Road at Birmingham Drive.
Bids will be accepted through the DEMA office until the live auction. For more information call: 760-943-1950 or visit, artsaliveencinitas.com.
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