Stepping into my new role as Communications Manager at Arts Council Santa Cruz County feels like both an exciting new chapter and a natural continuation of my journey here. For over seven years, I’ve been immersed in the vibrant, creative energy of this community, working in program management to bring projects to life that unite, inform and inspire. Now, I’m excited to share that same passion through the lens of storytelling, connecting even more people to the arts in ways that celebrate our shared values.
Personally, my gift of being a mother to two young adult men, a background in design and visual art, and an unreasonable love for local flowers, fresh food, and our beautiful natural surroundings keep me grounded and connected to the world around us. These elements remind me of the patience, care, and growth that art itself embodies. Just as a garden thrives with the right balance of elements, our cultural landscape flourishes when we nurture creativity, diversity, and inclusivity. I see art as more than expression - it's a relationship, a catalyst for growth, and a means to cultivate community and personal pride.
"By championing communication that’s engaging and accessible, I hope to inspire a sense of belonging that draws people into the magic of the arts community."
At the Arts Council, I’ve had the privilege of working on meaningful projects, from the Ebb & Flow River Arts Festival, which celebrated Santa Cruz’s cultural and environmental wealth, to the Home for the Arts public art installations that brought vibrancy and engagement to the Tannery Arts Center. Through these initiatives and more, I’ve seen how the arts uplift, empower and connect people across backgrounds and interests.
In this new role, my mission is to elevate stories and resource partnerships that amplify the impact of artists, foster inclusion, and celebrate the voices that make Santa Cruz County unique. By championing engaging and accessible communication, I hope to inspire a sense of belonging that draws people into the magic of the arts community. I believe the arts are vital for strengthening our connections, and I look forward to collaborating with you to turn this aspiration into reality. Here’s to exploring new pathways.
Let’s connect, I'd love to hear from you:
📧 Email: mercedes@artscouncilsc.org
📞 Phone: (831) 295-1612
🔗 LinkedIn: Mercedes Lewis
🌐 Instagram: @mercedesmmaria