The Sawdust Art Festival Hosts One-day Exhibition of Southeast Asian Art

Laguna Beach, CA – On Wednesday, July 16, the Sawdust Art Festival will host some unique guests from Southeast Asia, who will proudly share their authentic textile artwork for a special one-day exhibit. The Sawdust Art Festival will welcome Edric Ong, from Kuching, Malaysia, and three of his creative colleagues: Manjari and Jyoti Nirula from India, and Dinara Choch from the Central Asia Crafts Support Association. Ong and his companions will stop at the Sawdust Art Festival to share ceremonial handmade pieces, including the Malaysian puakumba, which comes from the visual essence of their dreams.

These Asian travelers are currently making a summer cultural tour to various cities throughout the U.S., immersing themselves in many international arts, crafts and gift shows. Upon arriving at the Sawdust Art Festival the international guests will share a distinctive educational experience with our artists and visitors, and explain the intricate details that go into creating such beautiful indigenous textiles, felts and embroideries. Each of the handcrafted pieces is carefully constructed in a primitive environment using completely natural dyes and materials, some taking months to complete.

The Sawdust Art Festival invites all to come see the ceremonial pieces that have contributed so greatly to the traditions of Southeast Asian culture. And in honor of our guests, Sawdust Art Festival artist Olivia Batchelder, a long time exhibitor whose hand-painted silk and clothing artwork is inspired by Ong and his talented craftspeople, will host the artists at her Booth 219 from 12 noon until 2 p.m. At 12:30 p.m. Ong will graciously present the history and cultural significance of these exemplary textiles.

The 2008 Sawdust Art Festival is open everyday through August 31, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Parking and free trolley service to and from the Act V lot is available for $7 per day. Act V is located on Laguna Canyon Road one-half mile north of the Festival. There is also metered parking along on Laguna Canyon Road for $1 per hour.

Admission prices are: Adult $7; Seniors $6 age 65 and up; Children $3 age 6-12 years and Free for children under 5 years of age. Summer Season Pass is $20 and the Annual Pass is just $25 (unlimited admission to both the Summer and Winter shows). For more information call 949-494-3030 or navigate to www.SawdustArtFestival.org.

The Sawdust Art Festival is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the public and promoting the art created in Laguna Beach.

The Sawdust Art Festival thanks our 2008 sponsors Czechvar, Kendall-Jackson and our Official 2008 Media Sponsor, The Los Angeles Times.