Tag: TOArts

TOArts launches Junior Creators Conservatory for middle school artists

by Community Contributor • April 24, 2026 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — TOArts is launching the Junior Creators Conservatory, its first program designed specifically for middle school students, creating a new entry point for young artists to explore and develop their creativity.

The new program expands TOArts’ commitment to building a continuous arts pathway, from early exposure to pre-professional training, by offering students earlier access to mentorship, skill-building, and creative exploration. Designed for students not yet eligible for the high school-focused Creators Conservatory, the Junior Conservatory fills a critical gap in arts education at a formative stage.

Bilingual report — 150 community photographs capture what it means to thrive in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2026 • Comments Off

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.

TOArts and SeeingHappy launch THRIVE: Ventura County, Inviting artists to capture what it means to thrive

by Community Contributor • January 21, 2026 • Comments Off

“THRIVE reflects our belief that the arts are essential to a healthy, connected community, ” said Casey Comstock-Mills, Programs and Development Director at TOArts. “This project invites people of all ages and backgrounds to pause, reflect on what gives them hope, and share those moments with others—strengthening both personal well-being and community connection. ”

TOArts expands board with three distinguished leaders from finance, arts, and education

by Community Contributor • January 15, 2026 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — TOArts has appointed Victor Fakrogha, Aerin LeDuc-Gummeson, and Dr. Michael Hart to its Board of Directors, expanding the organization’s leadership with expertise spanning finance, arts advocacy, and higher education. The appointment reflects TOArts’ continued commitment to strengthening arts access, community engagement, and long-term organizational impact across the region.

TOArts welcomes new officers and celebrates Matthew Burke appointment to its Board of Directors

by Community Contributor • February 25, 2025 • Comments Off

Al Lowe has been appointed as the new Board Chair, succeeding David Mead who remains an active board member, while Keith Wintermute steps into the role of Treasurer. Kyle Rohrbach continues his leadership as Vice Chair, and Janet Scherr remains in her position as Secretary. Each officer brings a wealth of experience and commitment to advancing TOArts’ mission of enriching the cultural vitality of Ventura County and the surrounding community.

TOArts raises more than $580,000, announces new executive director!

by Community Contributor • November 12, 2024 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Celebrating three decades of arts and culture at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, TOArts held its quinquennial CURTAIN UP!fundraising event on Oct. 25, marking the 30th Anniversary of this iconic venue. The event raised an impressive $583,600, with $291,700 in donations matched 1:1 by TOLD Foundation. With a total match challenge of $350,000, TOLD Foundation has pledged to match an additional $58,300 raised.

Rod Gilbert, President of TOLD Foundation expressed his support, saying, “TOLD Foundation is honored to support TOArts in their mission to make the arts accessible and transformative for all in our community. We are thrilled to play a role in helping TOArts reach new heights with their Sparking Joy! campaign.”

TOArts welcomes new board members ahead of 30th anniversary celebration

by Community Contributor • August 5, 2024 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — TOArts, the nonprofit fundraising and presenting partner of the Bank of America Performing Arts Center at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, proudly announces the addition of two new board members: Karen Davis and Keith Wintermute.

Karen Davis, a resident of the Conejo Valley for over 40 years, brings a wealth of experience as a retired finance executive. Her career includes significant roles at the Ventura County Healthcare Agency and California Lutheran University. Deeply committed to giving back to the community where her children grew up, Karen is enthusiastic about attracting young adults to TOArts events, including stand-up comics and popular 90s artists like Nick Carter, Ginuwine and Montell Jordan.

City of Thousand Oaks Announces Emergency Grants for Local Arts Groups

by Community Contributor • November 2, 2021 • Comments Off

The City of Thousand Oaks has made a commitment to the Arts and Culture organizations of the Thousand Oaks area by setting aside $500,000 to be used for emergency COVID-19 relief.

“Access to the arts is a critical part of a well-rounded community. We understand how much the pandemic seriously affected many arts organizations. We want to help our wonderful arts groups get back on their feet, so that our community can experience the soothing and healing beauty of the arts again” says Thousand Oaks Mayor Claudia Bill-de la Peña.