Linnaea’s Cafe, the Cal Poly Performing Arts Center, and The Bunker, popular locations for arts events. Photo collage courtesy of senior Ava Rhodes.
Many San Luis Obispo High School students, as evidenced by our outstanding arts departments and all those that appreciate them, are extremely passionate about a variety of art forms and their significance. Some students also attend arts events in the wider community of SLO, broadening their horizons and gaining deeper connections to groups and individuals outside of school. Expressions interviewed three students to learn more about the benefits of these events.
Expressions: What arts events in SLO have you attended or participated in recently, or plan to in the future?
Senior Madeline Bessems: I saw “Urinetown” recently and I absolutely loved it. Ms. Mettler did a phenomenal job! It was so nice seeing all the talent at our school. Soon, I am performing in the Monday Club Fine Arts Contest. I look forward to hearing the other musicians and seeing the art gallery. My best recommendation for an art event outside of SLOHS is the monthly Linnaea’s poetry open mic. I never miss a Cal Poly Jazz concert either, they have a wonderful big band and exceptional combos.
Senior Anju Nakai: I submitted a piece to the competition organized by Monday Club SLO. I also went to see SLO Symphony and SLO Youth Symphony concerts. As part of Youth Art Month, the SLO City Council Chambers are displaying artwork by many SLOHS students in March & April. I also participated in other national competitions, such as the Ocean Awareness Contest, the Celebrating Art Competition, congressional art competition, and competitions organized by Young Arts.
Junior Alex Bastidas: I have regularly attended concerts and shows in SLO.
Expressions: How would you describe the arts community in SLO?
Bessems: There is an excellent arts community in SLO, especially compared to other places I’ve lived. Having a university in town definitely contributes to this. I social dance three to four times a week thanks to the community here!
Nakai: The art community in San Luis Obispo is very community-oriented and gives off an open impression. For 2D art such as paintings, artists often hold solo exhibitions at places like the Gala Pride and Diversity Center in downtown SLO, providing opportunities to freely view the art and hear explanations directly from the artists. Linnaea’s Cafe also frequently sells art in its eat-in area and often features artist participation.
Bastidas: The community that the SLO arts scene brings is very welcoming and respectful. There are a lot of friendly people in the community.
Expressions: Do you feel that attending arts-related events improves your connection to the wider community of SLO?
Bessems: Absolutely. I have countless friends outside of SLOHS because of my involvement in social dancing events.
Nakai: Yes. I think connecting with local artists helps to expand the local community. I think that participating in events is a wonderful opportunity to meet people you didn’t know before and to gain new connections and experiences.
Bastidas: Yes, totally! I feel now I know more about the people of SLO than I did before.
Expressions: How do you normally find out about the events you attend?
Bessems: I always watch for tickets to Jazz concerts at Cal Poly. In terms of dance, I usually search the web for clubs, lessons, and events. The Linnaea’s event calendar is also always full of wonderful concerts, art nights, and open mics.
Nakai: I often get invited to events by friends who like art, or I learn about them from my teachers. I sometimes get the schedule directly from the members of SLO Youth Symphony and go to see their concerts.
Bastidas: I usually see flyers around town or on Instagram, since that’s probably the best way for people to express themselves online.
Expressions: Do you have any advice for SLOHS students looking to be more involved in the local arts community?
Bessems: My best advice is to simply dare to expand your life. This can mean reaching out for opportunities, or walking into an event and socializing with total strangers. Sometimes it can help to bring a friend along. Once you step into a community, you will find out about more and more events!
Nakai: I think it would be a good idea to participate in events held at the SLO Museum, talk directly with artists, or research and attend solo exhibitions and other events organized by artists.
Bastidas: Have fun. Be respectful of the people around you or the space in which an event takes place. Never feel pressured into doing things you don’t want to do. Be nice to people but don’t expect to be welcomed so easily. Unless you’re me.
Tigers, there are many opportunities and experiences to be gained by being an active member of the SLO arts community. Check out local calendars or ask around for events that interest you!
