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San Ramon arts advisory committee cites surge in participation, previews Doherty Station public art and Feb. 1 celebration
Summary
The Arts Advisory Committee reported increased artist participation (about 180 applications this year), selected Jeffrey Brewer as featured artist for the 2026 Art and Wind Festival, outlined an RFQ for a signature public art piece at Doherty Station (expected 2026), and announced a Feb. 1 Culture and Community Celebration at the Doherty Station Community Arts Center.
Ranjini Venkata Chari, chair of San Ramon's Arts Advisory Committee, told the City Council on Jan. 27 that the committee saw substantial growth in 2025 and outlined priorities for 2026, including a signature public-art project at the Doherty Station Community Arts Center.
"Really excited to be presenting the San Ramon Arts Advisory Committee annual report for 2025," Chari said as she reviewed the committee's work advising the city on public art, gallery exhibits and cultural programs. Staff liaison Adam Chow said the committee and staff have been collaborating on programs and community outreach.
Committee members reported about 180 artist applications this cycle, up from roughly 140 the previous year and 80/60 in earlier years; approximately 45 artists were selected to exhibit across five city galleries. The committee helped select Jeffrey Brewer as the featured artist for the 2026 Art and Wind Festival and reviewed public-art proposals for private developments and for a planned signature installation at the Doherty Station Community Arts Center. Staff said a formal request for qualifications (RFQ) for the Doherty Station public-art project is expected to be released in 2026.
Council members asked about artistic medium and outreach. The committee said there are not strict medium requirements but that for the Doherty Station project the committee prioritized elevation (visibility from the street), lighting and other criteria to ensure a tall, visible installation. The committee also described juried shows that included youth categories (kindergarten through seniors) and said the city partners with the San Ramon Valley Unified School District for Youth Art Month in April.
Chari also announced a Culture and Community Celebration on Feb. 1 at the Doherty Station Community Arts Center from 12 to 4 p.m., featuring roughly 40 performing groups, about 19 cultural booths, workshops and food trucks.
Council members praised the committee's outreach and asked staff to include participation metrics in future presentations.
