Join Vanguard Culture and UC San Diego ArtsConnect for a vibrant gathering of visual art, storytelling, dance, and community care. This special evening also marks the national launch of the Jimi Appleseed Initiative (JAI), a cultural storytelling movement rooted in creativity, sustainability, and shared humanity.
Launching from San Diego, the event will be streamed with interactive participation from 8–12 communities across the United States, creating a real-time national storytelling experience—while remaining deeply grounded in local voices and connection.
Purchase a Bowl. Sow a Seed.
Make a $15 donation to receive a beautiful, handmade ceramic bowl created by artists at the UCSD Craft Center. Proceeds directly support the San Diego Rescue Mission, helping ensure nourishing meals for neighbors in need.
Event Highlights
- Invisible Nation: Portraits of the Unhoused, an exhibition by artist Neil Shigley
- National launch of the Jimi Appleseed Initiative
- Live theatre by Blindspot Collective
- Live dance by Culture Shock San Diego
- Interactive springtime art and storytelling activities by Storytellers of San Diego
More than an event, this is a space to sow empathy, spark conversation, and rediscover our shared humanity—because once we hear each other’s stories, we stop being strangers.
Thursday, April 30th, 2026
UCSD Park & Market
1100 Market Street
San Diego, CA 92101
6pm-9pm
(Guests are encouraged to bring unexpired canned goods.)
$15.00 donation directly benefits the San Diego Rescue Mission and includes a beautiful, handmade ceramic bowl.
This event is made possible thanks to generous support from Jack Lampl; Gerry & Susan Slavet; and:
