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South Coast Theater has been recently reimagined by electric vehicle company Rivian .
Theater Transformation
Just in time for the holidays , one of Laguna Beach ’ s most beloved structures reopened its doors as electric vehicle company Rivian debuted the newly reimagined South Coast Theater . Located on South Coast Highway across from Main Beach , the historic building has been a theater since the 1930s — and still features space for film screenings and other social events . But the 11,000-square-foot Rivian South Coast Theater has also been transformed into a place where the automaker can educate locals and visitors about sustainability and the impact of electric vehicles alongside a luxury retail experience . A multiyear restoration preserved the ticket booth , marquee , balcony , 129-seat auditorium and more , with the R1T truck and R1S SUV now on display in the lobby as well . Other additions include the merchandise-filled Gear Shop and a cafe with drinks from Equator Coffees ; since the December launch , films that align with Rivian ’ s mission are being shown in partnership with the Laguna-based Coast Film Foundation . ( 888-748-4261 ; rivian . com ) — Ashley Ryan
A WONDROUS WALKWAY
Public art is part of the fabric of Laguna Beach , with an ever-changing collection gracing city streets . A new piece by Brooklyn , New York-based multidisciplinary artist Beau Stanton was installed near Sawdust Art Festival in November , on the bridge that connects Laguna Canyon Road with a nearby frontage street . The 14- by 20-foot “ Coalescence ” mosaic features inlaid ceramic and porcelain , with more than 1,000 hand-cut tiles inspired by the colors of Laguna ’ s coastal and canyon environments . “ Coalescence ” was selected by the Laguna Beach Arts Commission from a pool of 30 applicants , funded by the city and local lodging establishments . Originally from California , Stanton graduated from Laguna College of Art & Design with a degree in illustration in 2008 ; he has created public art in more than 16 different countries and has also exhibited his work in unique locations such as Times Square and a 13thcentury crypt as well as on the Berlin Wall . ( Beau Stanton : beaustanton . com ) ( City of Laguna Beach : 949-497-0727 ; lagunabeachcity . net ) — A . R .
The “ Coalescence ” mosaic by Beau Stanton features colorful , hand-cut tiles .
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