Book release and reading of writing inspired by the Festival of Arts

The public is invited to join Third Street Writers for a book release at the Festival of Arts. “Art Inscribed, Writing Inspired by the 2026 Festival of Arts” is a juried publication which includes stories, poems and essays by members of the non-profit writing group.This is the fifth year Third Street is undertaking this book project, which is supported by a generous grant from the Festival of Arts Foundation.

“Art Inscribed is such an amazing project,” said Third Street President Theresa Keegan. “It not only showcases members’ talent but, with all proceeds of the book sales supporting the Artists Fund, it acts as a bridge of two vital and viable art forms in Laguna Beach.”

Third Street’s board of directors continually stress collaborative projects for the group.

“It has been so meaningful to support FOA artists through this endeavor,” said Amy Dechary, president emeritus and an editor on the Art Inscribed project. “Every year the partnerships between the writers and artists just blossom. And this year’s finished product is a simply beautiful compilation.”

This year’s product has a more comprehensive approach than prior years, as work for it began in the springtime. Third Street Writers hosted a June workshop with award-winning writer Lisa Alvarez that focused on writing to tells a story and the group offered a well-attended critique workshop, led by Dechary, before the submission deadline.

Last year’s Art Inscribed garnered an impressive five Pushcart nominations and organizers are optimistic the national recognition will continue to grow.

“It’s only fitting that the Festival’s word-class art spurs high-quality ekphrastic writing,” said Keegan. (Ekphrastic writing is writing inspired by art.) “It also reflects Laguna’s comprehensive approach to celebrating the community’s many diverse art forms.”

Admission to the book release follows the Festival’s regular admission practices (free for Laguna Beach residents, $15 general, $11 seniors and students.) Books will be for sale, $15 each, and light refreshments are provided. Doors open at 11. The reading, on the main stage of the Festival ground, begins at noon.