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Santa Rosa arts committee hears program updates, welcomes new staff and notes memorial
Summary
Staff reported multiple open calls and programs, announced a new arts-and-events specialist, and committee members shared local arts news including a Press Democrat article and a memorial for a regional arts manager.
During the Jan. 5 meeting the Art in Public Places Committee received department reports on programming, outreach and staffing.
Staff reported several open calls: an open call for performers closing Jan. 16, the National Arts Program deadline Jan. 15, and Live at Juilliard applications opening Jan. 15. Staff also said community promotions funding is available for free-to-attend nonprofit events scheduled between February and June and encouraged nonprofits to apply.
Meredith announced that Mackenzie Nelson started work that day as the new arts-and-events specialist and will support exhibitions and special events. Committee members noted increased website traffic and use of QR codes and social ads to drive engagement.
Members also discussed recent media coverage: a committee member cited a Press Democrat article by Dan Taylor that highlighted the art walk and encouraged the group to consider advocacy if the paper discontinues arts coverage. The chair and members expressed concern about the possible retirement of the paper’s arts writer and discussed reaching out to regional arts organizations to sustain arts reporting.
A committee member reported the recent death of Winifred Day, longtime arts-and-culture manager for Richmond; a memorial service is scheduled at the Richmond Art Center on Jan. 17. Members also noted a new satellite sculpture installation in Windsor by Jean Paul Lawrence and upcoming outdoor exhibitions.
The committee adjourned at 4:25 p.m.; the next regular meeting is scheduled for Feb. 2, 2026 at 3:30 p.m.
