The Art Under the Umbrellas show kicked off their ninth season in Old Town La Quinta last Saturday, October 26, 2013. With over 80 diverse artists displaying everything from painting and photographs, metal and ceramic sculptures, jewelry and other items, there is plenty to see for collectors and art-lovers alike.
Many come to the art show as it covers a wide array of art and styles within each category. The show has become a major attraction for local hotel patrons looking for quality activities in the Valley as well as the locals and snowbirds looking for more artwork for their residences and offices.
The show was started in 1997 at the La Quinta Resort and Club and was moved at the beginning of the season to Main Street on Old Town La Quinta in 2004. The first show boasted about 50 artists and has grown to over 80 artists since then.
Veteran artists and newcomers have their work on display from all over Southern and coastal California, Washington, Colorado, Oregon and Utah.
Live music last Saturday was provided by the Steve Madaio & Friends Band, who play a variety of soft rock and jazz cover tunes to the passing crowd. They will be performing at each of the dates for the show and have different guest musicians each week.
Old Town La Quinta’s Main Street, which is closed to vehicles during the show, has many restaurants, boutiques and other shops, including the Old Town Coffee Company, where you can rest between art booths with a cup of espresso. The Old Town Coffee Company opens at 6:00 A.M. so art lovers can get their morning caffeine while artists setup their booths.
Some restaurants serve brunch with lines extending into the street. Hungry art show attendees can get an excellent meal at The Grill on Main (www.facebook.com/thegrillonmain / http://www.thegrillonmainlq.com/ (760) 777-7773). The Grill has gotten four out of five stars for its wide variety of cuisine – brunch prices range from $6-$15 and opens at 11:00 A.M Saturday and Sunday.
Art Under the Umbrellas runs until March 22, 2013 on key Saturdays, from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. The scheduled Saturdays are: 11/16, 11/30, 1/11, 1/18, 2/1, 2/15 and 3/22.
For more information, please visit www.LQAF.com or call (760) 564-1244.
