About
Discover San Diego's coveted secret for art lovers at the Spanish Village Art Center (SVAC).
Situated between the Zoo and the Natural History Museum in the heart of Balboa Park, the flowering bougainvilleas and multi-colored cobblestones escort you into the Villages center courtyard. There you will enjoy artwork of over 200 artisans and craftspeople showcasing their work in and about 37 colorful working artist studios and galleries.
Patrons, art lovers and the just curious folks will have the opportunity to discover this unique destination that celebrates art 7 days a week, 362 days a year (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years).
The quaint buildings and courtyards that make up the Spanish Village Art Center were originally built in 1935 to depict a charming old village in Spain for the second California Pacific International Exposition. In 1937, the Spanish village reopened as an art destination by a group of dedicated artists. During World War II the U.S. Army used the village for temporary barracks, and in 1947 it was reclaimed and restored by the artists. Over the last 60+ years, San Diego artists have continued to preserve and enhance this historical landmark by adding to its beauty with colorful flowers and unique entryways.
Today, the Spanish Village Art Center continues to be a thriving community of over 200 artisans who share their talent and the love of all things art with you. Independently juried local painters, sculptors, metalsmiths, jewelry designers, clay artists, gourd artists, photographers, printmakers, fiber artists, basket makers, mixed-media artists, glass artists, enamel artists and many many more await you at the Spanish Village Art Center.
