Ventura Mayor Matt LaVere is proud to announce the winners of the 15th annual Mayor’s Arts Awards and invites the public to attend its reception on Friday, November 15, 2019, from 5:30-8:00 p.m., at the Museum of Ventura County, 100 East Main Street, Ventura. The reception honors the achievements and contributions of five residents dedicated to the arts community in Ventura:

Artist in the Community – Larissa Strauss Creative Entrepreneur – Stephanie Hogue Arts Leader – Denise Sindelar

Arts Educator – Mario Boccali

Emerging Artist – Juan Manuel Cisneros

“I’m honored to recognize and celebrate those who contribute to the artistic and cultural vibrancy of our great city,” said Mayor Matt LaVere. “The arts play a vital role in our community, and Ventura’s reputation as an arts city wouldn’t be possible without the excellence exhibited by this year’s group of awardees.”

An Awards Selection Committee convened in September to review nominations made by the public and to make recommendations that were forwarded to the Mayor. The City would like to thank those who nominated individuals for these awards.

The City of Ventura Mayor’s Arts Awards was established in 2005 and recognizes the contributions to the cultural community by city residents, artists, educators, organizations, and business leaders. The special acknowledgement and celebration help cultivate greater visibility and understanding of the value of the arts, as well as grow new leadership and new patrons of the arts. For more information on the 2019 Mayor’s Arts Awards, please visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/maa .