San Diego’s largest contemporary art event flies into town

San Diego’s largest contemporary art event returns for its ninth year Sept. 28 through Oct. 1 at a new location - the Wyland Center at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. The popular event plays host to more than 500 artists, 60 galleries, publishers, and studies, and 15,000 festival goers.

Here’s the inside scoop on what not to miss at this year’s festival:

Discover a little magic

Don’t miss local artist phenomenon Sarah Stieber’s Rainbow Ribbon Magic series, premiering on Thursday, Sept. 28. Inspired by the female empowerment movement Follow Your Goddess, the pieces incorporate paintings of successful creative women, two interactive installations, and a dance performance. The ribbons act as a metaphor for the creativity of the inspirational women, as Stieber noted, “I think that magic is something you make and that we can all take steps to create the reality we want.” Sarah is also leading the 2017 Art Labs alongside fellow artist José Hugo Sánchez

For more information about these artists, visit sarahbstieber.com and josehugosanchez.com.

Step Outside the Lens

In collaboration with UBS Financial Services, Outside the Lens, a nonprofit organization that strives to educate local youth in photography, film, and digital media presents FOTO Colombia. This exhibition features works from their Cameras Across Cultures program. For more information, visit outsidethelens.org.

For the first time

Stop by the Art Blend booth to see the premiere appearance of well-known photographer Michael Joseph. The award-winning artist has held exhibitions around the country and was named one of the world’s top 10 photographers in 2012 by the Sony World Photography Organization. Learn more about this photographer at michaeljosephphotographics.com.

Art talks

Grab a behind-the-scenes look at the art world from a range of artists, designers, curators, and industry professionals via panel discussions and conversations.

The perfect combination

It’s tough to beat sipping on wine while enjoying the fruits of creativity. Check out Louis Jadot’s wine booth that will become a French bistro during the show.

Art San Diego

When: Noon to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 29 and Saturday, Sept. 30; and Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1

Where: 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar

Cost: Opening night: $75 online, $85 at event; General admission three-day pass: $25 online, $30 at event; General admission one-day pass: $20 online, $25 at event; Students/seniors three-day pass: $15 online, $20 at event; Students/seniors one-day pass: $10 online, $15 at event.

Parking details: Complimentary valet parking from 7 to 9 p.m. for the Opening Night Preview Party. Friday through Sunday is $13 per day, per car.

Information and schedule: art-sandiego.com or art-sandiego.com/show-schedule