Music Box Creates Space for San Diego Artists to Display Their Art, Support Charity

Downtown’s Music Box, which hosts live music and private events, has partnered with ArtReach San Diego to highlight local artists and their work.

The year-long series that began this spring includes a wall gallery on the venue’s third floor; the first featured artist is Josué Baltézar.

Baltézar, who is of Mexican-American heritage, has four paintings on display, “Heart in a Storm,” “Desert Heart”, “Corazon de San Diego” and “Rebirth.”

All paintings are available for purchase on canvas print. Proceeds from the sales of Baltézar’s work will support ArtReach, a non-profit organization that seeks to bolster youth creativity through visual arts and community connection.

Baltézar, who was raised in Chula Vista, specializes in murals, illustration and branding. He is passionate about helping people and organizations working in social justice.

“We see Music Box as a celebration of all types of art,” said the club’s owner Joey Rocco. “Whether it’s live music or fine art, we are proud to be embedded in the heart of San Diego featuring local, regional and national talents. As an independently owned business, we are here to support independent artists fulfill their dreams.”

The next local artist to be featured Music Box is Ian Stiles-Mikl. His work will be on display by the start of summer. His lifelong admiration for murals and street art drives his enthusiasm for community projects.

“We are thrilled about this ongoing artist series with Music Box,” said ArtReach Advancement Manager Anna Laroque. “They’ve created new opportunities for artistic expression and community engagement for some of the artists we work with. We truly appreciate the venue’s support and commitment to fostering a thriving arts scene in our community.”

ArtReach has worked with more than 60,000 youth.

Music Box, which opened in September 2015, has hosted an average of 230 concerts each year. Upcoming shows include RJD2, Yesterdaze and Medium Build.