About The Sawdust Art Festival

The Sawdust Festival Corporation is a 501 (c) (3) Non-Profit Corporation; our purposes are to provide the general public the opportunity to enjoy and appreciate the art and culture produced in the communities in which this corporation is active, through public meetings and art exhibitions in a charitable manner and not for profit.

Created by artists, for artists, we exist to uplift the creative spirit through education, opportunity, and community. As a nonprofit organization, every brushstroke, every spark from a glass-blower’s torch, every story told through sculpture or canvas is part of something bigger, a commitment to supporting local artists and keeping the arts alive for generations to come.

Each summer and winter, our forested grounds become a living, breathing art village, a place where over 180 Laguna Beach artists are empowered to exhibit and sell their work directly to the public. Visitors don’t just admire the art, they witness it come to life. From hands-on demonstrations to intimate conversations with the artists themselves, the Sawdust is a rare and beautiful experience that connects people through the power of creativity.

Here, art isn’t just seen, it’s felt, shared, and celebrated.

Our Values 

Celebration of Creativity

We believe art is for everyone. By showcasing the work of local artists, we create meaningful opportunities for the public to enjoy, appreciate, and engage with creativity in all its forms.

Community-Centered

Rooted in the communities we serve, we celebrate and uplift local culture. Our work reflects a deep commitment to supporting artists, fostering connections, and strengthening community identity.

Inclusion & Accessibility

Art should be experienced by all. We provide open, welcoming, and affordable opportunities for the public to discover and engage with art and culture.

Charitable Spirit

As a nonprofit, our focus is not on profit, but on purpose. Every event, exhibition, and gathering is created with the intention of enriching lives and giving back to the community.

Sustainability of the Arts

We are dedicated to nurturing artists and sustaining traditions for generations to come, ensuring that creativity continues to thrive.

How We Help the Community
Our festival is built by and for the local community. Every Winter and summer, we:

• Support over 180 local artists, offering them a platform to share their talents and sustain their livelihoods.
• Bring art to life through daily demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and educational programs that inspire creativity in people of all ages.
• Attract tens of thousands of visitors to Laguna Beach, fueling the local economy and shining a spotlight on the city’s rich artistic culture.
• Employ more than 100 residents, from operations and hospitality to education and event production, helping to keep our creative community thriving.
• We are proud to be a cornerstone of Laguna Beach’s identity, where art lives, breathes, and connects us all.