San Diego Museum of Art's Yearly Event, 'Art Alive 2025', Honors Architectural Maestro Lord Norman Foster
In the heart of San Diego, the San Diego Museum of Art is set to host the annual 'Art Alive' event from April 24 to 27, 2025. This year, the event takes on a unique twist, with a floral celebration inspired by the groundbreaking architectural designs of Lord Norman Foster.
For the first time in its 44-year history, Art Alive expands its focus by transforming the museum into a breathtaking floral wonderland. Nearly 100 floral arrangements will interpret works from the Museum's collection, including paintings, sculptures, and even architectural designs.
The centrepiece of this floral extravaganza is a dramatic two-story rotunda installation by floral artists Natasha Lisitsa and Daniel Schultz. Visitors can view the floral artwork as it swirls up the central stairs of the foyer, mimicking the paintings in fabulous fashion.
Key features of Art Alive 2025 include the Bloom Bash kickoff party, a night of dance, music, and cuisine on April 25 from 7 pm to midnight. Tickets are $250 for Members and $350 for non-members. The Premiere Dinner, a black-tie gala offering an exclusive first look at the floral exhibition, takes place on April 24 at 6:30 pm. Gala attendees will enjoy a multi-course menu, a full bar, and decadent desserts for $3500 per person.
The event also features a Garden of Activities for hands-on art-making accessible to all ages, as well as Petal Pop-Ups: surprise large-scale floral installations around San Diego in March and April.
The influence of Lord Norman Foster and his studio, Foster + Partners, on this event is central. The floral designs specifically interpret Foster’s architectural principles and iconic projects, celebrating his creative vision that blends sustainability, user comfort, and nature connection—qualities highlighted in Foster’s reflections on design during 2025 events elsewhere.
Los Cerritos residents can plan a day trip to San Diego to attend the event, with a drive taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Tickets to 'Art Alive' can be purchased on the San Diego Museum of Art's website. A prize is awarded to the florist whose flower arrangement best reflects the color, style, and movement of the accompanying artwork.
The event also includes parties, workshops, tours, and an exhibit of the future building planned by Lord Norman Foster’s studio, Foster + Partners. Families and artists of all ages can visit the floral and art exhibits at 'Art Alive' on April 26 and 27 from 10 am - 6 pm.
References: [1] San Diego Museum of Art. (2025). Art Alive 2025. [Online]. Available: https://www.sdmart.org/artalive [2] Foster + Partners. (2025). Lord Norman Foster's Reflections on Design. [Online]. Available: https://www.fosterandpartners.com/news/lord-norman-fosters-reflections-on-design/
The San Diego Museum of Art's community news extends beyond art, as Art Alive 2025, happening from April 24 to 27, 2025, includes garden-related events like the Petal Pop-Ups and a Garden of Activities for hands-on art-making. Additionally, the event's focus on the environment is evident in its emphasis on Lord Norman Foster's architectural principles, which value sustainability and nature connection.
