Saturday, August 8
4:30–7:00 p.m.
The San Diego Museum of Art front steps
Balboa Park, Plaza de Panama
Enjoy this FREE community celebration featuring internationally acclaimed artist Betsabeé Romero!
Celebrate the power of art, community, and soccer at Green Carpet: The 12th Player, a free public event by internationally acclaimed Mexican artist Betsabeé Romero. Presented during the excitement of the FIFA World Cup and Leagues Cup, this special gathering transforms the Plaza de Panama into a symbolic soccer field created collaboratively by Romero and students from San Diego and Tijuana.
Inspired by the idea of the “12th Player”—the fans whose passion, traditions, and collective spirit give meaning to the game—the project explores how sports can unite communities across borders. Just as every team is strengthened by its supporters, our communities are shaped by the people and causes they champion.
Following the unveiling of the installation, guests are invited to participate in a community picnic on the field, celebrating friendship, dialogue, and cultural exchange. Bring your family, friends, and food to share as we gather to experience the Museum as a place for connection and belonging.
Green Carpet: The 12th Player features
- Unveiling of Green Carpet: The 12th Player art installation
- Remarks by internationally acclaimed Mexican artist Betsabeé Romero
- Performances by Yolanda Orrantia
- Invitation to play, eat, and lounge on the art installation soccer field
- and a special soccer surprise…
Visitors are encouraged to come con tu camisa puesta (“with your shirt on”), wearing a jersey or shirt representing a favorite team, community, organization, school, or social cause. Together, these shirts become a powerful visual reminder that while we all support different teams, we also proudly wear the colors of the causes and communities that matter most to us.
The evening also anticipates the public opening on Thursday, August 13 of Betsabeé Romero: Tejiendo Redes (Weaving Nets), an art installation created by Betsabeé Romero that celebrates cross-border collaboration, shared creativity, and the cultural ties that unite our region. The exhibition will be on view in the Dammeyer Gallery at MOPA@SDMA August 13, 2026–January 3, 2027.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of art, soccer, food, and community as we celebrate the connections that make us stronger—on the field and beyond.
