New Times / Strokes & Plugs

Preserving the Light

How did we survive without GPS?

PATRICK R. BARBIERI

Despite the advantages of communications satellites and cell phones, it’s important to preserve the technology of the past. Two local organizations have teamed to do just that. The Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers, in conjunction with the San Luis Obispo Painters for the Environment (SLOPE), will be hosting “Lighthouse Impressions” on Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Avila Beach Golf Resort for the benefit of preserving one of SLO County’s gems from the past, the Point San Luis Lighthouse.

LIGHTING THE WAY “Solstice Light, San Luis Lighthouse,” a painting by SLOPE artist Laurel Sherrie, will be raffled to attendees of the Lighthouse Impressions art show. PHOTO BY LAUREL SHERRIE

Located just north of Avila Beach, the historical landmark is an inspiration for SLOPE, a group of professional outdoor artists committed to preserving the natural communities found in SLO County. Over the past year, SLOPE artists have created paintings inspired by the lighthouse and its surroundings. These works of art will be shown and auctioned off at the “Lighthouse Impressions” art show, where attendees can enjoy appetizers, wine, music, and art within the surroundings of beautiful Point San Luis. Proceeds from the event will benefit further restoration and education efforts by the Lighthouse Keepers.

“The lighthouse is a unique and beautiful location, and one of the last Victorian lighthouses to exist in California,” said SLOPE President Laurel Sherrie. “It deserves our support and we’re glad to help.”

Originally built in 1890, the lighthouse served as a critical navigational tool by maritime travelers for more than 80 years before closing in 1974, after which it fell victim to deterioration and vandals. That changed in 1992, when the Caost Guard turned the site over to the Port San Luis Harbor District. Since then, through the hard work of the Lighthouse Keepers, the structure has been renovated beyond its former glory.

“The lighthouse is a significant link to the history of the Central Coast and a hidden treasure that few people know about,” said Lighthouse Keepers Executive Director Margo Camilleri. “Even though technology has improved a lot since then, we’re still very much the same society.”

Tickets for “Lighthouse Impressions” can be purchased for $25. Weekend tours of the lighthouse are available for people and families (including children age nine and older), and include a 3.5-mile round trip nature hike to the structure. Van tours are available upon request. Visit www.sanluislighthouse.org for more information.

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Intern Patrick R. Barbieri compiled this week’s Strokes and Plugs. Send your business news to strokes@newtimesslo.com.