The transformation of a once-dilapidated Navy training center into the vibrant Arts District Liberty Station marks a remarkable shift in San Diego’s cultural landscape. After years of decay, the site has evolved into a flourishing 100-acre hub dedicated to the arts, serving both local residents and visitors alike.
Originally established in 2000, the Arts District is a nonprofit organization committed to enriching lives through cultural activities. It showcases more than 100 tenants, including art studios, galleries, shops, and performance venues. According to Lisa Johnson, President and CEO of Arts District Liberty Station, the organization fosters connections among artists from San Diego, Imperial County, eastern Baja California, and tribal communities.
The area’s history is a stark contrast to its current purpose. For over 75 years, the site was the Naval Training Center San Diego, where young recruits underwent training. Following military downsizing, the center began shutting down in 1994, with the final closure occurring in 1997. Subsequently, the city of San Diego leased most of the land, paving the way for a mixed-use development that would eventually become the Arts District.
The transformation involved repurposing former military structures for artistic endeavors. Johnson remarked on the significance of this change, stating, “Turning former barracks buildings into art studios and converting former military classrooms into educational and training spaces for music, arts, and dance is truly a feat.”
Among the notable venues within the Arts District is the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center, known as The Joan. This facility is now home to the Cygnet Theatre Company, which relocated from Old Town to Liberty Station in September 2025. The theatre, which produces a year-round season of professional performances, has benefited from its new location. Executive Director Bill Schmidt noted that the move provided a much-needed live venue to enhance the campus’s vibrancy.
At The Joan, the theatre is housed in a 42,000-square-foot building, equipped with two performance spaces, including one with 282 seats. Schmidt expressed excitement about the new opportunities the space offers, highlighting the advantages of being part of a dynamic arts community. “It’s a hub of arts activity,” he stated, praising the well-maintained campus and ample free parking.
In addition to the Cygnet Theatre, the Arts District is home to the San Diego Craft Collective, which offers woodworking and craft classes for all ages. This organization found its first permanent home at Liberty Station after operating as a pop-up model. Founded by Steffanie Dotson, the Craft Collective has grown significantly since establishing its headquarters in 2019, adding facilities for glass and ceramics, as well as an educational garden and sewing program.
Dotson emphasized the importance of being part of the Arts District, stating that the environment has allowed the Craft Collective to flourish and reach a broader audience. She praised the supportive community, noting the collaborative atmosphere with other businesses and nonprofit organizations.
While the Arts District covers 100 acres, Johnson mentioned that current contractual obligations prevent expansion. Nevertheless, ongoing development within the existing footprint aims to enhance the cultural offerings of the site. Plans are underway to redevelop buildings that remain in need of renovation, collaborating with local developer and restaurateur Ryan Thorsen to honor the historical significance of the former Naval Training Center.
In summary, the evolution of Liberty Station from a military training ground to a cultural arts hub underscores the potential for revitalizing historic sites. With a commitment to accessibility and community engagement, the Arts District Liberty Station represents a successful model for integrating arts and culture into urban redevelopment.
