Spanish Village Art Center

Spanish Village Art Center is an artist complex in Balboa Park with over 200 studios where artists create and sell paintings, sculptures, jewelry, ceramics, and glass works. The center spreads across several buildings around a busy courtyard where visitors can watch artists at work.

The center was designed by Richard Requa in 1935 for the California Pacific International Exposition and was occupied by the US Army during World War II. After the war it became a permanent art center and has remained one ever since.

Working artists fill the center's courtyard with colorful concrete tiles they create and regularly demonstrate their craft techniques to visitors. This ongoing activity shapes the character of the place and makes it a living space where art is made every day.

The center is open daily and allows visitors to watch artists at work and chat with them directly. Plan time to explore several studios since there is plenty to see across the different spaces.

The center features a glass blowing studio where visitors can watch molten glass being transformed into finished artworks. This rare chance to see traditional craft in action makes the place special.

Location: San Diego County

GPS coordinates: 32.73372,-117.14758

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:45