art event Pasadena 2017

The rebirth of the Pasadena Playhouse District and an Art Walk too

osaic skulls by Mary Clark Camargo
October ’tis the season for Mexican skulls — although for mosaic artist Mary Clark Camargo that season is year ’round.

The annual Art Walk in the Playhouse District was a typical local art show — but untypically located under the huge old ficus trees that line Green St.  The temperature was around 90F so the shade was welcome. After stopping by the booths of a few local artists I wandered around taking pictures of the buildings and shops to see how the area has changed since the last time I photographed it a year ago.  The Playhouse District, BTW, is also home to Vroman’s books and a Laemmle theater.

Here is some of what I saw.

Green street shops Pasadena
Green Street is one of the most charming streets in Pasadena. In both Old Town and in the Playhouse District it is lined with unique shops and tall old Ficus trees.
Ceramic snack flip flops by Mariko
So California! Ceramic flip flops to use as snack dishes. These were created by Mariko.
Do it yourself photo flowers
Rather than displaying their own photographs, this photography studio created a paper flower background for anyone to use in their own photos Clever idea–Instagram ready! Their studio’s name will show up in every photo taken in front of it.
Urth cafe Playhouse District
This old Spanish Revival building now is home to the Urth Cafe and it was packed with Millenials. Good mosaics and murals on the walls inside.
Zona Rosa Cafe Playhouse District
Next door to the Pasadena Playhouse, which is the official State Theater of California, is the Zona Rosa Caffe. It’s quite small and the coffee is good.  
Nouri rugs Playhouse District
While Millennials flocked to the new cafes and crowded the art booths along Green St., Nouri rugs was open for more traditionalists who love oriental rugs. This shop has been there since long, long before the revitalization of the Playhouse District began.