Known as "a jewel in the community", the 101 Artists' Colony was founded in 1998 and provides space for artist studios, a central space for exhibitions including their highly acclaimed "Children of Chernobyl" Art Exhibition, book signings, and a venue for musical and spoken word performances. In addition, the Colony supports Full Moon Poets, with its increasingly popular twice yearly poetry slams at the historic La Paloma Theatre, and open poetry readings that are held once a month on the full moon.

The organization is 100% volunteer run; there are no paid staff members. The 101 Artists' Colony is a 501(c)4 tax-exempt organization.

What the Community is Saying About The 101 Artists' Colony:

"The 101 Artists' Colony is an indispensable part of civic culture in the city of Encinitas," said Peder Norby, Highway 101 Coordinator, and former Executive Director, Downtown Encinitas MainStreet Association (DEMA). "You cannot downplay or do without the contributions the 101 Artists' Colony has made. People are searching for the authentic and the original. They are tired of consumer sameness. The two strongest elements that give us that unique identity are our historic buildings and our art. These are critical, critical factors in downtown Encinitas." (Quoted in the North County Times, April 4, 2007)