Letter From the Board President: A Vibrant First Half of 2025!

Dear Art League Community,

What an incredible start to 2025 at the Santa Cruz Art League! The past six months have been a whirlwind of creativity, community, and growth, and we’re thrilled to share the highlights with you.

Our galleries have sparkled with stunning exhibitions, drawing an average of 200 attendees to our lively First Friday and exhibition receptions. We’ve welcomed over 50 new members to our creative family and celebrated a successful curator internship with UCSC, culminating in the inspiring Transmutation exhibition.

Our classes are thriving, with beloved teaching artists Linda Lord, Toaa Dallo, Mary Dettle, Joan Hellenthal, and Robert Dvorak delivering their signature excellence. We’re overjoyed to welcome Hajra Meeks to our teaching roster, bringing her vibrant energy to a free workshop on July 26 and more classes to come. Susie Wilson’s return has been a highlight, with her life drawing and still life classes offered regularly, alongside our newly expanded Monday morning Drop-In Life Drawing sessions. With instructors skilled at guiding all experience levels, there’s never been a better time to try a class and join our warm, creative community.

We’re also excited to announce a new addition to our board of directors, Elijah Meeks, whose artistry and business acumen will help steer our organization to new heights.

But the star of our news this week is Betsy Behan, our new Manager! After an extensive search, we found the perfect leader in Betsy, a Santa Cruz County native with a wealth of experience in local hospitality and the tech industry. Her cheerful disposition and remarkable skills are already lighting up our creative team, and we can’t wait for you to get to know her.

Here’s to an inspiring second half of 2025, filled with art, connection, and community. Join us at an upcoming event or class, and let’s create together!

Warmly,
Terri Steinmann
President, Board of Directors
Santa Cruz Art League