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Commission approves two $10,000 sponsorships; local artists and film group thank the commission
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Summary
The Glendale Arts and Culture Commission voted to sponsor the inaugural Glendale Art Show and the Glendale Youth Orchestra at $10,000 each; public commenters included an artist introducing upcoming exhibits and the Alex Film Society seeking continued festival funding.
At its Feb. 19 meeting, the Glendale Arts and Culture Commission approved two separate sponsorships of up to $10,000 each: one for the inaugural Glendale Art Show presented by Armenian Arts and one for a Glendale Youth Orchestra Mahler portrait concert at the Alex Theater.
Stepan Partamian, founder and executive director of Armenian Arts, presented the proposed Glendale Art Show — an April 19, 2026 walkable arts event on North Orange Street with approximately 40 artist booths, a small performance stage and promotional recognition for sponsors. “We are asking a general sponsorship of $10,000,” Partamian said. During Q&A he described a total event cost in the range of $22,000–$25,000 and said the commission’s sponsorship would allow reduced booth fees for artists.
The commission moved and seconded approval of the Armenian Arts sponsorship; a roll call recorded affirmative votes and the motion passed.
Mara Kelly, president of the Glendale Youth Orchestra board, described GYO’s outreach and educational mission and asked the commission to sponsor a season‑finale Mahler program at the Alex Theater on April 26. Kelly said the orchestra’s membership ranges from 10 to 23 and that “80% of our students come from Glendale Unified.” Commissioners asked about rehearsal structure, publicity coordination with the Alex Theater and ticket distribution to students; the commission moved, seconded and approved the $10,000 sponsorship by roll call.
During oral communications local artist Krikor Chai introduced himself and highlighted current and upcoming shows (Glenmark Hotel on Brand Boulevard through March 1; a solo at Ace 121 gallery in December). Steven Meek of the Alex Film Society thanked the commission for prior support of Brand Park outdoor screenings, described expanded attendance and outreach, and requested continued grant support for the 2026 season.
Votes at a glance: Jan. minutes (motion to approve) — approved by roll call; Armenian Arts sponsorship — approved (motion passed by roll call); Glendale Youth Orchestra sponsorship — approved (motion passed by roll call).
