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Sonoma, CA – September 4, 2024 – The City of Sonoma’s Cultural and Fine Arts Commission (CFAC) is excited to announce the opening of the nomination process for the 2025 Sonoma Treasure Artist of the Year Award. Established in 1983, this distinguished award honors exceptional achievements in the performing, visual, or literary arts and recognizes significant contributions and involvement within the Sonoma Valley community.
Sonoma Treasure Artist Award recipients are celebrated with a series of special tributes throughout the year, highlighting the importance of their contributions. A public reception hosted by the CFAC is held in their honor, where they are presented with the coveted “Key to the City.” This symbolic gesture recognizes their unique status as ambassadors of creativity within the Sonoma community. Additionally, the honorees have the opportunity to showcase their artwork in the City Council Chambers as part of the Revolving Temporary Art Program. Treasure Artists are also invited to participate in the beloved Sonoma Old Fashioned 4th of July Parade, where they ride as esteemed guests.
Members of the public are warmly invited to nominate outstanding artists residing within the Sonoma Valley Unified School District boundaries, which include Schellville, Vineburg, the City of Sonoma, El Verano, Boyes Hot Springs, Fetters Hot Springs, Agua Caliente, Eldridge, and Glen Ellen.
To submit a nomination, you have two convenient options:
- Online Submission: Visit sonomacity.org/documents/treasure-artist-nomination-form/ to complete the nomination form.
- In-Person or By Mail: Written nominations can be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office at No. 1 The Plaza, Sonoma, CA 95476 (City Hall), or via email to Monique Saviez Burns at msaviezburns@sonomacity.org.
Nomination letters should include the following key elements:
- Description of the Artist’s Work: Provide an overview of the nominee’s artistic style and achievements.
- Photos or Portfolio: Include photographs or a link to the artist’s work.
- Contributions to the Community: Describe how the nominee has impacted the Sonoma Valley community through their artistry and community involvement.
- Rationale for Nomination: Share compelling reasons why this individual should be honored as the Treasure Artist of the Year.
The submission deadline for nominations is October 31, 2024, allowing ample time for the Commission to carefully review and consider each candidate. Following the nomination period, the Commission will convene to select the Treasure Artist of the Year at their November 19, 2024, meeting.
Find a list of past Treasure Artist Award recipients on the City’s website at www.sonomacity.org/treasure-artist/.
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About the City of Sonoma’s Cultural and Fine Arts Commission: The City of Sonoma’s Cultural and Fine Arts Commission is dedicated to promoting and preserving the vibrant arts and cultural heritage of Sonoma. Through various programs, initiatives, and awards, the Commission aims to foster artistic expression and community engagement in the arts. The Treasure Artist of the Year Award is one of the Commission’s most prestigious honors, recognizing outstanding artists who contribute significantly to Sonoma Valley.
MEDIA CONTACT
Sarah Tracy, Public Information Officer
stracy@sonomacity.org
(707) 933-2215