Sonoma Treasure Artist nominations sought

The City of Sonoma’s Cultural and Fine Arts Commission is seeking nominations for its 2018 Sonoma Treasure Artist of the Year Award.

First awarded in 1983, the Sonoma Treasure Artist is selected and recognized for outstanding achievement in a chosen artistic medium including the performing, visual, theatrical, literary and craft arts and for their service and involvement within the community.

The public is invited to nominate, in writing, individuals they feel would be worthy of the Sonoma Treasure Artist honor. Letters of nomination must include a description of the artist’s work and contributions to the community, and a rationale for why that person should be named Treasure Artist of the Year.

The 2017 Treasure Artist was local filmmaker and teacher Peter Hansen, who has built a well-regarded media arts program for Sonoma Valley High School.

In selecting Hansen, the Commission noted not only his accomplishments as a filmmaker, but also his accomplishments during his 15 years teaching at Sonoma Valley High School. During that time, he and his students have produced an annual student film festival as part of the Sonoma International Film Festival, screening approximately 20 films each year.

When he heard of his selection, Hansen said, “To be recognized by the community is really humbling. And for the award to encompass film, and to be in the same company as past winners like Dennis Ziemienski is so exciting.”

Treasure artist nominations will be accepted in the office of the City Clerk, No. 1 The Plaza, Sonoma, CA 95476 (City Hall) or by email at rbarr@sonomacity.org until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 5. The Commission will consider the nominations and select the Treasure Artist at its December meeting. Contact City Clerk Rebekah Barr at 933-2216 for additional information.