Artists made the runway their canvas at the Festival of Arts on August 15, competing to create the most imaginative and unique designs using reclaimed, reused or recycled materials. A three-panel judge chose the top looks in four categories and over 2,000 Festival visitors had the opportunity to cast their votes for “People’s Choice Award.”
The Festival Runway Fashion Show was hosted by Cristina Ferrare, author, philanthropist and co-host of The Hallmark Channel’s Emmy nominated series Home & Family. Selecting the winners was a panel of judges including artist Regina Jacobson, costume designer Alex Jaeger and production/set designer Nelson Coates.
Most Exciting Ensemble with Wow Factor” was awarded to artist Brad Elsberry for his design entitled “Rhapsody in Blue Denim” created from building insulation and 50 pairs of used blue jeans from various thrift stores.
Painter Elizabeth McGhee won “Most Creative Concept” for her runway look entitled “Bloom,” inspired by jellyfish. The dress and headpiece were made from dozens of water jugs and plastic bags. The outfit was complete with jewelry from broken pottery and dangling jellyfish made from reclaimed sweaters and plastic.
Sculptor Casey Parlette won Most Innovative Use of Materials” for his design which was comprised of various types of wood, titanium scraps turned into butterflies, paper and plastic bags, dry cleaner bags, screen door mesh, and feathers. His creation “Encantadora Mariposa,” or Butterfly Enchantress, was inspired by Casey’s experiences in the Amazon Jungle.
Mariana Nelson received the award “Most Glamorous & Elegant ‘Red Carpet’ Worthy Creation for her stylish outfit made from over 2,000 black cocktail straws and dry cleaner bags. The runway look also included a hat made from fan parts, old CDs and zip ties. Mariana’s runway look also impressed the crowd and took home the highly coveted “People’s Choice Award.”
ABOUT THE FESTIVAL OF ARTS FINE ART SHOW
Recently voted one of the top five art festivals in the nation by USA Today readers, the Festival of Arts is one of the oldest and most highly acclaimed juried fine art shows featuring the artwork of 140 award-winning artists. Patrons may enjoy the work of exhibiting artists, demonstrations and art workshops, daily art tours, live music, special events, on-site restaurants and much more. For a full listing of events, visit LagunaFestivalofArts.org.
DATES & TIMES
July 5 – August 31, 2015
Open daily from 10am – 11:30pm
Early closing August 29 at 3:30pm
TICKET INFORMATION
General Admission: Weekdays $7, Weekends $10
Students & Seniors: Weekdays $4, Weekends $6
Free Admission for Children 12 and under, Military, and Laguna Beach Residents.
SPONSORS
The Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters are sponsored in part by Fidelity Investments, Mazda, KOST Radio 103.5, the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, and Orange County Register.
LOCATION
Festival of Arts Grounds
650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
FOR INFORMATION & TICKETS
(800) 487-2787
www.LagunaFestivalofArts.org