The official artwork for the 37th annual Live Oak Music Festival has been unveiled. Live Oak is held every June to benefit KCBX Public Radio and features musicians performing a variety of genres, including funk, soul, folk, roots rock, Americana, jazz, bluegrass, blues, world music and more.
Each year, a local artist is invited to create a poster that is meaningful to the history, mission, or spirit of Live Oak. This year’s artwork is designed by San Luis Obispo County artist Clayton Vaughn Benge, whose design places the distinct
figure cut by Live Oak MC Joe Craven against the background of the idyllic natural landscape of the El Chorro Valley.
The decision to feature Joe Craven originated with input from KCBX Central Coast Public Radio office manager Claire Flaherty and development associate Greg Perry.
“We wanted to honor our MC, Joe Craven, this year,” said Perry. “As our front man, who is himself a musician, an amazing communicator, and just a wonderful soul, he represents the Live Oak experience better than anyone,”
The poster’s main message is that of welcoming and inclusion as Joe Craven spreads his arms wide against a backdrop of Central Coast native flora, fauna, and natural features.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working on this project for the second consecutive year and am thrilled with the positive reception it has received so far,” said Benge of his poster design.
