The city’s temporary public art program encompasses all the same goals of the city’s Art in Public Places Program while supporting a variety of visual arts experiences with the possibility of a performing arts elements. These pop up arts experiences may range from a single experience to a short term of several days or a longer duration over multiple years. The overall goal is to provide a greater awareness of local and regional artists and heighten the visibility of artists and the arts in Carlsbad. 

Creating thoughtful relationships between public space and art while preserving Carlsbad’s distinct heritage and cultural identity is an ongoing priority. The city’s public art program is created in the community’s interest and designed to create exciting aesthetic experiences that engage Carlsbad’s community, and give people a sense of place that’s welcoming to this distinctive area. Ultimately, these projects deepen the city’s commitment to artists, the arts, in general, and broadens its value to the quality of life in alignment with the city’s Arts & Culture Master Plan. 

Apply now for the Open Call for Artists: Carlsbad Beach Chairs public art project. Deadline: May 10, 2026.

Currently on view 

Studio Tutto, The Sun & The Egret, 2023, exterior grade mural paints
Carlsbad Library Learning Center, West wall, 3368 Eureka Place

Clyde, Passengers, 2022, exterior grade paints
New Village Arts Center, West wall, 2787 State Street

Jason Markow, The Whale, 2020, acrylic 
Georgina Cole Library, 1250 Carlsbad Village Drive

Nan Coffey, Art All Over, 2024, acrylic
Design and fabrication by Michael Stutz, 2018, Marine-grade plywood
Carlsbad City Library on Dove Lane (Garden), 1775 Dove Lane

Ron Juncal, Double Bubble, 2022, acrylic
Design and fabrication by Michael Stutz, 2018, Marine-grade plywood
State Street and Grand Avenue (north-west corner)

Betsy Schulz, A Lounge for Land and Sea, 2022, acrylic
Design and fabrication by Michael Stutz, 2018, Marine-grade plywood
Batiquitos Lagoon (south of Nature Center), 7380 Gabbiano Lane