Vanguard Culture kicks off an exciting new partnership with SD Art Advisory and honors a local music icon
by Susanna Peredo Swap
February 25, 2025
On Saturday, February 22nd, Vanguard Culture celebrated its newest partnership with San Diego Art Advisory in Mission Hills. The 2nd Level is a versatile and artful new event space in Mission Hills that is perfect for galas, fundraisers, receptions, workshops, rehearsals, yoga classes, board meetings and more. This beautifully designed venue offers an inspiring setting at competitive rates, ideal for nonprofits and community groups to host impactful events.
Guests enjoyed delicious Paoloni wines presented by Baja Wine + Food, fruit and charcuterie platters by Pavilion Catering and yummy ceviche bites by Executive Chef William Eick of MATSU and Executive Chef Jorge Fuentes of Fuego Marino.
The community also came together to celebrate the City of San Diego’s Proclamation of February 22nd as Jamie Shadowlight Day. Multi-award-winning violinist Jamie Shadowlight was an impactful and inspiring force in San Diego’s music scene until her cancer diagnosis and untimely death in 2024. Her ability to work across all musical genres aligned with Vanguard Culture’s core vision to bring people together for meaningful creative collaboration. She was a friend to Vanguard Culture and performed multiple times in their innovative programs.
Jamie Shadowlight accompanied by multimedia artist XavaZ at Vanguard Culture’s Foodie Soiree 2014
Curated by Vanguard Culture Vice President Jefferson Jay, local musicians Michelle Lerach, Kobe, Lee Coultier and others played three original songs written by Jaime Shadowlight; inspired by her final days. The band brought much joy to the celebration and had the crowd signing and dancing along.
Vanguard Culture Executive Director Susanna Peredo Swap with attendees of the 2nd Level Launch Party
The new partnership with San Diego Art Advisory aims to tackle one of the most pressing issues identified by the City of San Diego’s recent Creative City study: the critical need for affordable creative spaces. The venue, formerly an art gallery, will now be open to the public for use as a unique, artful and affordable event space.
Vanguard Culture is an online media entity designed for culturally savvy, socially conscious individuals.
We provide original interviews and reviews of the people, places, and events that make up San Diego’s thriving arts and culture community, as well as curated snapshots of the week’s best, most inspiring and unique cultural and culinary events.
We believe in making a difference in the world, supporting San Diego’s vibrant visual and performing arts community and bringing awareness to important social and community causes.
