The Arts Council’s Create and Develop Grants support artists and cultural leaders in turning bold ideas into reality, through public art, performances, festivals, workshops, and professional growth. These investments drive creative momentum, foster cultural equity, and strengthen community ties.

We’re proud to introduce this year’s grantees. Scroll down to explore the projects and people shaping the creative landscape of Santa Cruz County.

From exhibitions and events to hands-on workshops and neighborhood celebrations, these projects bring people together, spark new ideas, and celebrate the richness of local culture. Each one adds energy, beauty, and meaning to daily life across our region.

Explore all grantees online: artscouncilsc.org/grantees

CREATE GRANTS

Funding community-based arts projects—murals, performances, events, classes, and more.

• Augustine Escobedo – Rotating Mural Wall at Lenz Arts

• Becky Olvera Schultz – Native Arts Market at the Watsonville Women’s Club

• Benjamin Dorfan – “Resonant Landscapes” music recital.

• Boys & Girls Clubs – Teen Screenprinting Studio

• Brenda Leach – Bodypaint Art for Self-Acceptance

• Brianna Conrey – Reimagining Mendelssohn-Hensel’s Das Jahr as live visual performance

• Chase Dean Fraser – “The Golden Void” at The 418 Project

• Devi Pride – Capturing Dance: Headshots & Photography for Dancers

• Jorge Guillen – Drag Ball & Variety Show (Watsonville)

• Kalie Granier – “MáKkin Mak Wárep” Muwekma Ohlone Interdisciplinary Art Collaboration

• Karina North – Acrylic for Everyone: Community Painting Workshops

• Coastal Watershed Council – Children’s Art Banners on the San Lorenzo River Walk

• Loubayi Arnaud – 10th Annual Ha Mbongui African Dance & Drum Conference

• Maya Mendoza – Indigenous Crafting Class Series

• Melissa Kreisa – “Broadsides No. 2” Art + Poetry Exhibition

• Michelle Corrales – Succulent & Floral Art Workshop

• Pacific Rim Sculptors – “Connected” Group Art Exhibition

• Rachel Corvese – I Woke Up Like This Fashion Extravaganza

• Robert Ehrlich – Cultura Escondida Concert ft. Dulce Coco

• San Lorenzo Valley Museum – Artist-in-Residence Program

• Sata Cruz County MTAC – Opportunity Music Scholarships

• Santa Cruz Dance Week – Spring 2026 Festival

• Yarrow Sifry – Pride and Prejudice by Midsummer Ensemble

• Yasmine Benabdallah – Multimedia Exhibition at Sesnon Art Gallery