Lomaland was unconventional, to be sure, but it was an oasis of creativity that had its foundation in universalist ethics and altruistic ideals, serving as a cultural and educational center that was much talked about by the surrounding town. Now, the San Diego State University Library has mounted an engrossing exhibition about the local experiment devoted to 19th century Theosophy and New England Transcendentalism. Titled Revisiting Visionary Utopia: Katherine Tingley’s Lomaland, 1898-1942, the artifact-filled show is a visual treat for viewers.

Tom Loeser: Please Please Please showcases the work of designer/furniture maker Loeser, who re-imagines interaction of body, furniture, and space. The show poses the question: “If the furniture we sit on every day were totally different, would our lives be different too?” To explore the idea, Loeser turns furniture upside down and inside-out. More than 20 of his unconventional works are highlighted. In addition to three-dimensional objects, works on paper further test traditional notions of objects and space and how we may be influenced by them. A meticulous craftsman with an international reputation, Loeser has been a woodworker for more than 30 years and, during that time, has embraced postmodernism.

Designs from top international luxury brands will dazzle on the runway when The Country Friends presents the Art of Fashion runway show and luncheon.

10am Moët & Chandon Champagne cocktail reception with tray pass hors d’oeuvres by The French Gourmet
11am Art of Fashion runway show presented by South Coast Plaza
12:30pm Lunch on the front lawn by Executive Chef Christopher House
2-4pm Shop South Coast Plaza boutiques while sipping specialty cocktails by Spa Girl Cocktails

Marking the nonprofit’s 14-year partnership with South Coast Plaza, the show will feature top trends from the fall/winter collections of a carefully curated selection of the center’s renowned retailers.

Featured Designers:
Bally
Escada
M Missoni
Max Mara
Oscar de la Renta
Ralph Lauren
Roberto Cavalli
Saks Fifth Avenue
Salvatore Ferragamo
Stella McCartney
The Webster
Versace
Weekend Max Mara

Herb & Wood and Chef Brian Malarkey will welcome esteemed editor, author, and foodie Kat Odell for an event to celebrate the launch of her newest book, Unicorn Food: Beautiful, Vibrant, Plant-Based Recipes to Nurture Your Inner Magical Beast. Known for her work in Vogue, Eater, and Travel + Leisure, as well as her first book, Day Drinking, the event offers an exclusive first look at Odell’s newest work while experiencing Herb & Wood’s gallery space.

Evening Features:

• Playful cocktails and mocktails inspired by Odell’s books
• Delicious bites from Chef Malarkey
• A cooking demonstration by the pair featuring recipes from Unicorn Food
• A private signing of her new book.

Ticket price is $30, which includes a copy of the book, bites, and drinks.

The evening includes an elegant cocktail hour featuring creations by Snake Oil Cocktail Co. followed by a custom menu by Pamplemousse Grille’s Jeffrey Strauss. Later, guests will have the opportunity to transform lives and raise their paddles to directly “Fund a CASA.” The gala concludes with dancing under the stars at the lively after-party.