MIDDLE : JEFF ROVNER ; OTHERS : COURTESY OF LOCA ARTS EDUCATION

WHIMSICAL WORKSHOPS Loca Arts Education provides important outreach programs throughout Laguna Beach , including art programs for children at all of the Laguna Beach Unified School District campuses and the Laguna Beach library as well as weekly programs at the special needs residence Glennwood House , providing adults with developmental disabilities the opportunity to experience and create art . The nonprofit also partners with the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach to offer artistic activities integrated into the organization ’ s programming and presents regularly-scheduled art classes at Waymakers Youth Shelter for atrisk youth and teens to decompress mentally and emotionally while expressing themselves . “ Art can be a balm for trauma ,” says Elizabeth McGhee , education coordinator for Loca . “ Teaching at the Youth Shelter is so rewarding since I can share my passion for art and open a new world of inspiration for kids in need .”

COMMUNITY COLLABORATIONS To offer art education to the community at large , Loca makes it a point to collaborate with different organizations in town — including a partnership with Laguna Plein Air Painters Association , which won Laguna Beach Arts Alliance ’ s Outstanding Arts Collaboration designation at the annual Art Star Awards in 2022 . “ We have been teaching art education for 30 years this April … [ and ] have received several Art Star awards for our collaborations with community partners over the [ years ],” says K . C . Mechling , executive director of Loca . In addition to programs at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center and Laguna Beach Library , Loca offers in-person classes taught by professional artists throughout town that focus on use of material , skill and conceptualism .

SCHOLASTIC SPEAKERS Held each month from January through May and again in October , the nonprofit ’ s Art Talks program provides a space for artists to discuss their careers and what inspires them with both Loca members and the general public . Artminded people come together to share ideas through discussions , artistic demonstrations and , often , hands-on activities . “ It is a delightful way to spend an evening ,” Mechling notes . “ Loca provides hors d ’ oeuvres and libations with a fascinating art talk by a remarkable artist .” Past guests have included glassblower John Barber , cinema production designer Nelson Coates and wildlife sculptor Casey Parlette . Find information about upcoming talks or register to attend at locaarts . org . g

LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE 29