So glad you had a great visit to AMOCA and finding the Sawdust Festival. I had several memorable experiences at AMOCA, including meeting some of the late ceramic greats, Paul Soldner and Don Reitz.
If you're out again in the summer, a great all-day excursion in Laguna is to start at the Sawdust Festival, then 1 block down the street to the Art-a-fair, then across the street to the ticketed Laguna art festival show. Your ticket gets you a free entrance to the Art-a-fair and to the evening performance of the pageant of the master's which is an unbelievable performance in an outdoor amphitheater. Famous paintings and sculptures are performed by a live cast who are costumed and painted that with special lighting "turn" into the actual look of the real painting or sculpture. The show always ends with DaVinci's, "Last Supper". Prior to the show they have an outdoor lawn picnic area with tables where many bring in large basket feasts or just wine and snacks while enjoying a free show of live music (alternating and may famous artists) This is central to the surrounding art displays that you can continue to peruse until showtime. There are several food vendors inside as well as a great restaurant, the Tivoli Terrace. This a great day of art that leaves the art enthusiast well satiated.