Courtesy photo.
Countywide exhibition presented by TOArts and SeeingHappy celebrates creativity, connection, and well-being
Click here for the entire media release en español
THOUSAND OAKS — From coastal landscapes to quiet family moments, 150 photographs submitted by residents across Ventura County and neighboring communities will debut this month in THRIVE: Ventura County, a community photography exhibition exploring themes of hope, connection, and well-being across the region. Selected from more than 250 submissions by photographers of all ages and backgrounds, the exhibition offers a collective portrait of what it means to thrive in our communities.
Presented by TOArts in partnership with SeeingHappy, a global nonprofit that uses photography and positive psychology to foster belonging and well-being, THRIVE: Ventura County is designed as a true community collaboration—bringing together artists, residents, nonprofit organizations, libraries, local businesses, and cultural partners to celebrate creativity as a pathway to connection and well-being. The initiative is also TOArts’ first fully bilingual (English-Spanish) arts project, expanding participation and accessibility across the region’s diverse communities.
The public is invited to a free opening reception on March 29 at the Kavli Theatre Lobby & Gallery at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center, where visitors can view selected works, meet participating photographers and hear the stories behind the images. The event will feature light bites from Fogo de Chão, music from DJ Uncle Alex, and a gathering that reflects the project’s central idea: that communities thrive when people come together.
“THRIVEVC is really about what happens when a community shows up for one another, ” said Niki Chopra Richardson, Executive Director at TOArts. “Artists, libraries, nonprofits, local businesses, and County residents all played a role in bringing this project to life. It’s a reminder that when we create together, share our stories, and support the arts, we build stronger and more connected communities.”
The collaboration is supported through the VibeWell Ventura County Arts & Mental Health Grant Program, funded by Ventura County Behavioral Health—Mental Health Services Act and administered in partnership with the Ventura County Community Foundation. VibeWell programs use arts and cultural engagement to connect communities to mental health resources, reduce stigma, and increase overall well-being.
“THRIVEVC shows how creativity can bring communities together in meaningful ways, ” said David Yoshitomi, Arts and Culture Manager, County of Ventura.
“When people share stories of hope, resilience, and connection, it reminds us that mental health and well-being are something we build collectively. ”
The opening reception is sponsored by Southern California Edison, whose support helps ensure the exhibition remains free and accessible to the public.
The exhibition will remain on view through June 14 and extends beyond the performing arts center through partner venues including The Arterie, Five07 Coffee Bar & Eatery, the Thousand Oaks Library, and the Newbury Park Library, creating a multi-location community experience.
Opening Reception Details
- When: Sunday, March 29 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm
- Where: Kavli Theatre Gallery & Lobby at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center
- Learn more: https://givebutter.com/ThriveVC
- For more information about TOArts and its initiatives, please visit www.toarts.org
TOArts is the nonprofit partner of the Bank of America Performing Arts Center, Thousand Oaks, working to create a community Where the Arts Thrive for All. We bring world-class performances to the region, ignite creativity in young people through arts education, and champion local artists and performing arts organizations. For more information, please visit www.toarts.org, and follow TOArts on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.