Connecting Local Artists Since 1963

The Simi Valley Art Association (SVAA) is a nonprofit community arts organization that has supported visual arts in Simi Valley for over 60 years. The SVAA was founded in 1963 by local artists and art supporters who wanted to encourage creativity and promote the visual arts within the community.

Over the decades, the SVAA has grown into one of the area’s main community art organizations. Its mission has focused on:

• Supporting local artists of all skill levels
• Hosting exhibitions and juried art shows
• Providing demonstrations, workshops, and educational programs
• Encouraging young artists through grants to local high school art department

The SVAA;s best-known events include:

• Annual People’s Choice Show (Members Only)
• Annual Open Juried Art Show (Open to all local artists)
• Community exhibits
• Artist demonstrations and critique sessions
• Participation in local arts festivals and cultural events

The group regularly collaborates with local organizations such as the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District and the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center to host exhibits and community arts programming.

The SVAA has also contributed to arts education in local schools by awarding grants to high school art departments in Simi Valley. Grants are funded through donations and fundraising events hosted by the SVAA. 

Today, the SVAA continues to serve as a gathering place for painters, photographers, mixed-media artists, and other creatives throughout Ventura County and the surrounding region. Membership is open to students, artists of all levels, and professionals interested in two- and three-dimensional art.

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April 22, 2023—Simi Valley Art Association board members mark the group’s 60th year. Top row, from left: Bienvenido Sibug, newsletter designer; Tom Evans, president; and Jason Lubas, vice president. Bottom row: Persy Evans, newsletter/corresponding secretary; Helle Urban, hospitality/corresponding secretary; Carmen Lamp, recording secretary; Terry Walson, treasurer; and Donna Snyder, annual events chair. Courtesy photo.