By Connie Martinez, SVCREATES’ Chief Executive Officer
This is an important time of the year for SVCREATES as we announce our 2023 Content Emerging Artist Awards. Once again, an independent panel of local artists has selected three outstanding emerging artists from our region. Selection is based on the quality of their work, their commitment to developing their craft, and their service to enriching our local community.
Congratulations to our 2023 Content Emerging Artists: Dan Fenstermacher, Keana Aguila Labra, and Davied Morales
Since 1991, over 160 artists have been honored through the SVLaureate and Emerging Artists program with support from the County of Santa Clara. Each awardee will receive a $5,000 cash award to celebrate and encourage the continuing development of their artistic work, a profile in Content Magazine, and the title of Content Emerging Artist.
The Content Magazine team lifts the voices of other creatives through our “storytelling” media platform all year. And they take an active role in selecting and showcasing these emerging artists to honor Silicon Valley’s innovative and evolving culture and its corresponding dependence on new talent.
Our 2021 Business of Arts and Culture research documented the importance of arts start-ups, underscoring the need to nurture homegrown artists, which in turn fuel our sector’s resilience. And just like the tech sector, we have “churn” too. This may be driven by the Valley’s high cost of living or growth opportunities for the artist — or both. Regardless, we are proud that these artists call Santa Clara County home, and we are grateful for their work and contributions to our community and beyond.
In partnership with the Cilker School of Arts and Design at West Valley College, celebrate the emerging artists with us at the Content Magazine Pick-Up Party on Friday, May 19 from 7:00pm — 10:00pm. Thank you to Dan, Keana, and Davied for bringing us joy, learning, and inspiration. They deserve our collective applause.
