Ten years ago, the Artists Awards Endowment at the Community Foundation Sonoma County began supporting up-and-coming artists in our community. The fund was created by more than 50 Community Foundation donors between 2007 and 2011 with support from the James Irvine Foundation.
The Discovered Artists program (now managed by Creative Sonoma), recognizes exceptional individual artists in Sonoma County. Up to six artists are selected through a juried process to show work in an exhibition. Additionally, artists receive a $2,000 stipend.
As part of the anniversary, Creative Sonoma has asked recipients of the Award to reflect on their experiences and the impact the award has had on their careers. Most notably, artists expressed that they had confidence that they could live as an artist, explored new directions and opportunities, and that the awards eased the financial burdens of making art.
