LBCLT Quarterly Newsletter Q3 2026
The Land Line
50 More Artist Studios in Laguna Canyon Are Now Permanently Protected
This quarter marks the largest acquisition in the Land Trust's short history. With the addition of two more canyon properties, we've roughly tripled the number of studio spaces held in community trust — securing working space for generations of Laguna artists to come.
Recent News
Land Trust Completes Historic Purchase of 3251 & 3275 Laguna Canyon Road
In late July, the Land Trust closed on its second major canyon property, adding 50 additional artist studios to its portfolio. Local coverage described the purchase as a bid to save Laguna's "artistic soul and heritage" — keeping working studio space out of the private market and off the redevelopment table for good.
$8 Million Loan Secures the Original 25 Live/Work Units
Earlier this year, the Land Trust secured an $8 million loan (4% interest, five-year term) to preserve 2307 and 2535 Laguna Canyon Road — two of the last significant artist-oriented properties remaining in the city. The Laguna Beach City Council also approved a one-time $75,000 grant to cover closing costs.
New Website, New Ways to Stay Connected
We've launched a redesigned, public-facing website built for transparency and community engagement — with property pages, board updates, and this newsletter's online home. Take a look and tell us what you'd like to see next.
Studio Spotlight
Rick Graves
From his youth riding waves and photographing surfers in Huntington Beach to his career as one of the advertising world's most renowned automobile photographers, Rick Graves has spent a lifetime dedicated to his passion for speed and motion. Rick developed a custom-built camera system that shoots an entire roll of film as a single exposure, and exhibits his long-format images at the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach.
After a successful career photographing cars, Rick turned his focus to making short films, and now enjoys telling stories for nonprofit organizations and fellow artists. He lives in Laguna Woods and teaches photography and video for Saddleback Emeritus. Rick and his wife, Heather, lead tours to Africa and Utah, sharing their passion for wildlife and wild horses with clients.
Check out Rick's work about Artists Testimonials on our Donate page of the website: lagunabeachclt.org/donate
Ways to Support the Trust
Donate
Land is permanent. So is your impact. Every gift helps us acquire and steward more of Laguna's creative and affordable spaces.
Give Now →Volunteer
From event support to committee work, there's a role for community members who want to get hands-on.
Sign Up →Become a Sponsor
Local businesses and partners can help fund acquisitions, restoration, and studio programming.
Learn More →Join the Community
Follow our advisory committees, attend open meetings, and help shape how the Trust grows.
Get Involved →Save the Date
(TBD)
"Land is permanent. So is your impact."
Protect a Piece of Laguna Beach
