The Central Avenue Jazz Festival returns on September 21, 2024, from 11 AM to 7 PM, celebrating the timeless allure of jazz and its profound influence on LA culture. At the heart of the festival is the Arts Pavilion, where renowned and local artists showcase artworks that capture the spirit of jazz. This year marks the Decade Celebration of the Arts Pavilion, highlighting the festival’s commitment to blending jazz and visual arts in a way that enriches the community.

Although the Central Avenue Jazz Festival celebrates its 29th year, the Arts Pavilion was formed in 2014, marking the beginning of a cherished tradition that celebrates jazz’s profound impact on Los Angeles culture. The inaugural event on July 26 & 27, 2014, was a vibrant tapestry of music, art, and community, embodying the essence of Central Avenue’s rich jazz history.

This first Arts Pavilion event showcased the exceptional talent of both world-renowned and local artists, representing the community’s diverse artistic voices. These artists brought to life the stories and experiences of Central Avenue’s historic jazz scene, creating a powerful connection between the past and present. Their works reflected the rich cultural legacy of jazz and celebrated the community’s ongoing contribution to this dynamic art form.

The Arts Pavilion has become a symbol of the enduring bond between jazz and the city of Los Angeles, illustrating how deeply intertwined the arts are with the community. Over the years, the Pavilion has become a platform for artistic expression, offering a unique opportunity for artists and visitors alike to explore the fusion of jazz music and visual arts. This integration of the arts has not only enriched the festival experience but has also inspired a renewed appreciation for the cultural heritage of Central Avenue.

The impact of the Arts Pavilion on the community has been profound, fostering a sense of pride and unity among its residents. Each year, people eagerly anticipate the Arts Pavilion experience, knowing it will be an inspiring celebration of creativity, culture, and community. The Pavilion’s success has made it a highlight of the festival, where attendees can immerse themselves in the vibrant world of jazz-inspired art and experience the lasting influence of this genre on Los Angeles’s cultural landscape.

A Decade of cultural enrichment

 The festival has remained committed to honoring the legacy of the Central Avenue Jazz Festival and its significance to the community, a commitment that aligns with the vision of Councilman Curren D. Price Jr. His unwavering dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of Central Avenue and supporting the arts has been instrumental in shaping the festival into what it is today. Through his leadership, the festival continues to be a beacon of artistic expression and community engagement, reflecting the vibrant diversity and history of Los Angeles.

Councilman Price’s vision aligns seamlessly with Omar Holguin, Founder of La Mancha Gallery, whose passion for art and community has been a driving force behind the Arts Pavilion. Both leaders share a commitment to celebrating the cultural richness of Los Angeles through art and music, fostering a sense of unity and pride within the community. This shared vision led to a meaningful partnership, with Omar Holguin playing a pivotal role in curating the Arts Pavilion, ensuring that it remains a space where artistic excellence thrives and cultural connections are celebrated.

The Artists

The 2024 Arts Pavilion at The 29th Central Avenue Jazz Festival features an impressive lineup of artists, each bringing their unique perspective and style to the community. The participating artists included:

• EnkOne: He is renowned for preserving urban city culture through his captivating portraits of legendary personalities, landmarks, and influential community figures. One of his most significant works, “The Blocks-Long Crenshaw Mural of African-American Progress,” is a testament to his love for “AreoSoul” art and stands proudly in the historic Crenshaw district of Los Angeles.
• Mike Norice: His impactful murals grace many corners of Los Angeles, reflecting his dedication and creativity
• Sam Pace: Sam’s impressive portfolio includes commissions from high-profile clients such as Blue Note Records, the Los Angeles Urban League, and entertainers like Nancy Wilson and Eddie Palmieri. His art has been featured in prominent festivals, including the Central Avenue Jazz Festival and the Watts Towers Jazz Festival.
• Riea Owens: Whether it’s oils or digital art, Riea Owens’ creative journey knows no bounds. From captivating portraits to her renowned “Citizens of the World” series, her art spans diverse mediums that will leave you inspired.
• Kevin T. Williams: Known for his evocative paintings that blend African and Native American heritage with musical traditions, Williams creates captivating, multi-layered narratives.
• Wendel Wiggins: Over the past 25 years, Wendell’s art has graced galleries, museums, and festivals across Southern California and beyond, reflecting his love for culture, spirituality, and vibrant expression.
• Errol Cook: the captivating artwork of Errol Cook, a self-taught artist and the owner of Counsel and Canvas Art Gallery. Originally hailing from Los Angeles, CA, Cook masterfully fuses life experiences into diverse artistic interpretations that are sure to inspire and intrigue.
• Gloria Ing “Missing Artist”: An accomplished artist, curator, and jewelry designer, will be creating one of her mesmerizing street chalk masterpieces live at the event.

a promising future

 For the past decade, the Arts Pavilion has been instrumental in fostering artistic excellence and cultural enrichment. Under the guidance of Omar Holguin, Arts Pavilion Organizer, the Pavilion has become a pivotal space where art and music meet, offering a unique visual experience that reflects the rich heritage of jazz. This milestone event honors the Pavilion’s contribution to the festival and its role in creating a vibrant cultural tapestry.

The Central Avenue Jazz Festival presents a dynamic mix of music, art, and community spirit against the backdrop of LA’s storied jazz history. With the Arts Pavilion celebrating a decade, we invite everyone to experience the deep connection between jazz and the arts. This milestone event showcases jazz’s enduring impact on LA, uniting people through creative expression. Join us for this grand gathering where jazz tradition and contemporary artistic innovation merge into a captivating cultural experience.