The Arts District Liberty Station has introduced an exciting new initiative, the Open-Air Gallery, offering a self-guided tour for visitors to explore a diverse collection of murals, sculptures, and other public art pieces. Accessible in both English and Spanish, this interactive experience also features an online StoryMap that provides engaging insights into the artworks on campus. The gallery forms part of the broader Art in Public Places (AiPP) programming, enhancing the outdoor artistic journey for all attendees.
Established in 2000, Arts District Liberty Station has become a cornerstone of San Diego's cultural landscape, fostering creativity and providing artists with a platform to display their work. In 2017, the organization launched Installations at the Station, a program aimed at celebrating the vibrant visual arts community by commissioning local and Northern Baja artists. Visitors can now scan QR codes near each piece to delve deeper into the creation process, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes content provided by the artists themselves. This digital guide encourages users to embark on a walking tour through the campus, discovering the next nearest artwork along the way.
Lisa Johnson, president and CEO of Arts District Liberty Station, expressed excitement about offering the community a fresh and innovative approach to experiencing the district’s rich artistic offerings. With bilingual resources and accompanying audio, visitors can learn more about the creative processes and inspirations behind each installation. Two local artists have been selected for the 2025 Installations at the Station projects: Mischka Ippólita and Beliz Iristay.
Mischka Ippólita, a multidisciplinary artist based in Tijuana, Mexico, will create a mural located behind Barracks 19. Her work combines microbiology with visual expression, pushing boundaries in both art and science. Meanwhile, Beliz Iristay, a Turkish American multimedia artist known for her cultural fusion influences, will install her piece along the North Promenade near Barracks 16 and 17. Her studio, TURKMEX, is based in Ensenada, Mexico, where she continues to explore themes of identity, heritage, and cultural exchange across various media.
These artistic endeavors aim to celebrate the unique culture and diversity of the San Diego-Baja region. For further details about the Open-Air Gallery and Installations at the Station, interested parties can visit the official website at www.artsdistrictlibertystation.org.
This initiative not only enhances accessibility but also deepens the connection between the community and the artistic expressions showcased within the district. Through innovative technology and a commitment to inclusivity, Arts District Liberty Station continues to redefine how people interact with public art, making it an enriching experience for all who participate.