Carmel Art Walk & Carmel Art Festival

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a picturesque town with a rich history and vibrant cultural scene. The local art community is a testament to this, with a plethora of galleries, museums, and public art installations that showcase the talents of local artists. Whether you are a seasoned art collector or simply enjoy browsing beautiful artwork, two events in May are sure to delight.

On the second Saturday of every month, visitors and locals alike gather for the Carmel Art Walk, a self-guided tour of over 15 art galleries and studios located in the town's downtown area. The galleries feature a diverse range of art styles and mediums, from traditional paintings to contemporary sculptures, and everything in between. This month’s art walk will take place on Saturday, ^{May 13, 2023 from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.} During the art walk, visitors have the opportunity to meet local artists, view their work, and learn about their creative processes. 

One of the highlights of the Carmel art scene is the annual Carmel Art Festival. This event, which takes place ^{May 19-21, 2023}, is a celebration of local artists, with over 50 participating artists exhibiting their work in a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and more. Visitors can stroll through the show, meet the artists, and purchase their favorite pieces. A unique aspect of the local art scene is plein air painting, which involves artists painting outdoors in natural light. This technique has a long history in Carmel, with many artists drawn to the town's stunning scenery and vibrant community.