Jay Grant

The Zest from Orange Coast magazine · Aug 20, 2026 · 33m

Today we're sitting down with someone whose story is deeply woven into the artistic fabric of Laguna Beach. For more than five decades, he's helped shape one of Orange County's most beloved cultural traditions, witnessing the Sawdust Art Festival evolve from its free-spirited beginnings into a nationally recognized celebration of local artists. Along the way, he's worn nearly every hat imaginable, from exhibiting artist to sales manager, board member, historian, and leader, while remaining committed to preserving the festival's artist-first mission and the creative community that has made…