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ACC 11-04-2024 Searchable PacketCITY OF CUPERTINO ARTS AND CULTURE COMMISSION AGENDA 10185 North Stelling Road, Quinlan Conference Room Monday, November 4, 2024 5:00 PM Special Meeting Members of the public wishing to observe the meeting may do so in one of the following ways: 1) Attend in person at Quinlan Community Center, 10185 North Stelling Road 2) The meeting will also be streamed live on and online at https://youtube.com/@cupertinocitycommission Members of the public wishing to comment on an item on the agenda may do so in the following ways: 1) Appear in person at Quinlan Community Center. 2) E-mail comments by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, November 4 to the legislative body at artsandculture@cupertino.gov. These e-mail comments will also be posted to the City’s website after the meeting. Oral public comments may be made during the public comment period for each agenda item. Members of the audience who address the legislative body must come to the lectern/microphone and are requested to complete a Speaker Card and identify themselves. Completion of Speaker Cards and identifying yourself is voluntary and not required to attend the meeting or provide comments. NOTICE AND CALL FOR A SPECIAL MEETING OF THE ARTS AND CULTURE COMMISION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special meeting of the Arts and Culture Commission is hereby called for Monday, November 04, 2024, commencing at 5:00 p.m. in Quinlan Community Center Conference Room, 10185 North Stelling Road, Cupertino, California 95014. Said special meeting shall be for the purpose of conducting business on the subject matters listed below under the heading, “Special Meeting." Page 1 1 ACC 11-04-2024 1 of 554 Arts and Culture Commission Agenda November 4, 2024 SPECIAL MEETING CALL TO ORDER ROLL CALL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1.Subject: Meeting Minutes for the September 23, 2024 Arts and Culture Commission Meeting Recommended Action: Review and approve the minutes for the September 23, 2024 Arts and Culture Commission meeting A - Draft Minutes POSTPONEMENTS ORAL COMMUNICATIONS This portion of the meeting is reserved for persons wishing to address the Commission on any matter within the jurisdiction of the Commission and not on the agenda. Speakers are limited to three (3) minutes. In most cases, State law will prohibit the Commission from making any decisions with respect to a matter not on the agenda. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS CONSENT CALENDAR OLD BUSINESS 2.Subject: Study Session to revisit the Municipal Code standards for art in public and private development, including the standards in the Municipal Code and developing an Art-in-lieu fee policy Recommended Action: Receive a presentation and provide feedback for Staff NEW BUSINESS 3.Subject: 2024 Artist Awards Program Evaluations Recommended Action: Evaluate participant submissions for the 2024 Distinguished, Emerging, and Young Artist Award Programs and select winners for each category. A - Artist Awards Descriptions and Application Criteria B - Artist Awards Evaluation Forms C - 2024 Young Artist Award Group A Submissions D - 2024 Young Artist Award Group B Submissions E - 2024 Emerging Artist Award Submissions F - 2024 Distinguished Artist Award Submissions Page 2 2 ACC 11-04-2024 2 of 554 Arts and Culture Commission Agenda November 4, 2024 STAFF AND COMMISSION REPORTS FUTURE AGENDA SETTING ADJOURNMENT In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), anyone who is planning to attend this meeting who is visually or hearing impaired or has any disability that needs special assistance should call the City Clerk's Office at 408-777-3223, at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting to arrange for assistance. In addition, upon request in advance by a person with a disability, meeting agendas and writings distributed for the meeting that are public records will be made available in the appropriate alternative format. Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the members after publication of the agenda will be made available for public inspection. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office in City Hall located at 10300 Torre Avenue, Cupertino, California 95014, during normal business hours. IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please be advised that pursuant to Cupertino Municipal Code section 2.08.100 written communications sent to the City Council, Commissioners or staff concerning a matter on the agenda are included as supplemental material to the agendized item. These written communications are accessible to the public through the City website and kept in packet archives. Do not include any personal or private information in written communications to the City that you do not wish to make public, as written communications are considered public records and will be made publicly available on the City website. Page 3 3 ACC 11-04-2024 3 of 554 CITY OF CUPERTINO Agenda Item 24-13459 Agenda Date: 11/4/2024 Agenda #: 1. Subject: Meeting Minutes for the September 23, 2024 Arts and Culture Commission Meeting Review and approve the minutes for the September 23, 2024 Arts and Culture Commission meeting CITY OF CUPERTINO Printed on 10/21/2024Page 1 of 1 powered by Legistar™4 ACC 11-04-2024 4 of 554 At 6:33 p.m. Chair David Wang called the special meeting to order at the Quinlin Conference Room, 10185 North Stelling Road, and via teleconference. ROLL CALL Commissioners Present: David Wang, Kiran Rohra, Rani Agrawal Commissioners Absent: None Staff Present: Gian Martire APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Subject: Approve the August 12, 2024 Arts and Culture Commission minutes. Recommended Action: Approve the August 12, 2024 Arts and Culture Commission minutes. MOTION: Agrawal moved to approve the August 12, 2024 Arts and Culture Commission minutes, with modifications. The motion carried with the following vote: Ayes: Wang, Rohra, and Agrawal. Noes: None. Abstain: None. POSTPONEMENTS - None ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - None WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS Staff read into the record an email from a member of the community, Rhoda Fry. OLD BUSINESS - None NEW BUSINESS 2. Subject: Vice Chair Election Recommended Action: Elect a Vice Chair of the Arts and Culture Commission. DRAFT MINUTES CUPERTINO ARTS AND CULTURE COMMISSION Monday, September 23, 2024 5 ACC 11-04-2024 5 of 554 Minutes Page 2 Arts and Culture Commission September 23, 2024 Chair Wang opened the public hearing and the following person spoke. Lisa Warren Chair Wang closed the public hearing. MOTION: Agrawal moved and Wang seconded that Commissioner Rohra be the Vice Chair. Ayes: Chair Wang, Agrawal, and Rohra Noes: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None. 3. Subject: Study Session to revisit the Municipal Code standards for art in public and private development, including the standards in the Municipal Code and developing an Art-in-lieu fee policy. Recommended Action: Receive a presentation and provide feedback for Staff. Commissioners asked clarifying questions. Chair Wang opened the public hearing, and the following person spoke. Lisa Warren Chair Wang closed the public hearing. Commissioners asked questions and made comments. Several comments included:  In-lieu payment and valuation of art pieces on private development shall be maintained at a consistent valuation of 1%.  City Council be the decision-making body for in-lieu payment options for developers (maintains status quo). Chair Wang does  The City shall create and maintain a separate art fund.  A potential use of art funding should be used to develop an arts Master Plan, and other Commission recommendations. Reference Chair Wang’s presentation from August 12, 2024.  City Council to be the decision-making body, upon recommendation by the Arts and Culture Commission, for the allocation of funds.  Continue discussion to next hearing. STAFF AND COMMISSION REPORTS Chair Wang gave an update from the September 18, 2024 Mayor’s Commission 6 ACC 11-04-2024 6 of 554 Minutes Page 3 Arts and Culture Commission September 23, 2024 meeting. Staff Member Gian Paolo Martire gave updates on the Artist Awards submission. FUTURE AGENDA SETTING Discuss at the next regularly scheduled meeting to discuss the Council work program item assigned to the Arts and Culture Commission. ADJOURNMENT At 8:30 p.m., Chair Wang adjourned the Special Arts and Culture Commission Meeting. Minutes prepared by: _______________________________ Gian Paolo Martire, Senior Planner 7 ACC 11-04-2024 7 of 554 CITY OF CUPERTINO Agenda Item 24-13465 Agenda Date: 11/4/2024 Agenda #: 2. Subject: Study Session to revisit the Municipal Code standards for art in public and private development, including the standards in the Municipal Code and developing an Art-in-lieu fee policy Receive a presentation and provide feedback for Staff CITY OF CUPERTINO Printed on 10/21/2024Page 1 of 1 powered by Legistar™8 ACC 11-04-2024 8 of 554 CITY OF CUPERTINO Agenda Item 24-13461 Agenda Date: 11/4/2024 Agenda #: 3. Subject: 2024 Artist Awards Program Evaluations Evaluate participant submissions for the 2024 Distinguished, Emerging, and Young Artist Award Programs and select winners for each category. CITY OF CUPERTINO Printed on 10/21/2024Page 1 of 1 powered by Legistar™9 ACC 11-04-2024 9 of 554 Young Artist Award Description Each year the Commission presents awards to deserving young artists in recognition of local achievements in the visual arts in the following age groups: Group A: 6-10 years old Group B: 11-14 years old Awards: Three awards (Platinum, Gold, and Silver) are given to each age group. Additionally, a cash prize of $150 is awarded to the Platinum winner. Rules:  All applicants must live in Cupertino or attend an educational institution or art school physically located within Cupertino. Only one entry per artist will be allowed.  Artwork must be completed by the young artists only – parents and teachers cannot assist or participate in the production of the art.  Artwork that does not fit the contest theme and/or does not contest parameters will not be considered.  Artists may use a medium of their choice including digitally created still art. Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated art is strictly prohibited. Original artwork may be requested at a later date for public display.  Artwork and completed application must be submitted by Tuesday, October 1 at 4:30 p.m. Evaluation Criteria: The primary criteria for both age groups will be how effectively and/or creatively the applicant has communicated the contest theme. Evidence of originality as well as effective use of media and tools will also be considered. The theme of the 2024 award program is: “Building Sustainable Community” Complete Online Application HERE Questions? Please email artistawards@cupertino.gov 10 ACC 11-04-2024 10 of 554 Emerging Artist Award Description The Emerging Artist Award was established to encourage and recognize demonstrations of artistic promise. This award recognizes younger artists as well as those rediscovering their love of artistic expression later in life. Applicants for the Emerging Artist Award will be evaluated on their use of media, tools and working materials. The Commission will also be looking for evidence of creative thought and originality in the artists’ submitted portfolio, including connection to the award program theme. All applicants must include a written personal statement that includes goals, education, training, volunteerism, community involvement and any achievements or awards. Applicants can participate in any of the following artistic categories: Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Literary Arts, or Digital Arts. There is a cash award of $750 for the Emerging Artist platinum winner (1st place). To receive funds, a completed W-9 will be requested. How to Apply  Who may apply: Artists must live in Cupertino or attend high school, college and/or art school physically located within Cupertino.  Deadline: Applications must be submitted by Tuesday, October 1 at 4:30 p.m.  Complete Online Application HERE Online Application Requirements 1. Submitted Application 2. Personal Statement (maximum 1 page) 3. One letter of endorsement and/or support, which includes relationship to artist. 4. Digital portfolio: (saved as PDF, JPG, JPEG, or PNG file) *At least one piece in the portfolio must connect to the 2024 award program theme: 2024 Artist Awards Theme - “Building Sustainable Community” Artists submitting visual art can include up to three pieces that best represent the artists’ body of work. Performing artists’ may submit no more than five minutes worth of performances, film entries may submit no more than five minutes worth of film, and literary artists’ may submit no more than a total of five pages. Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated art is strictly prohibited. Submitting pieces from a previous Artist Awards submission is highly discouraged. 11 ACC 11-04-2024 11 of 554 5. Resume and exhibition record (if any and maximum 2 pages) Winners who receive cash awards must:  Be willing to work with the Arts and Culture Commission to promote the arts in the community through participation in one or more events designed for that purpose.  Acknowledge the recognition of the City of Cupertino on any printed advertising, programs or brochures they produce related to the award. Questions? Please email artistawards@cupertino.gov 12 ACC 11-04-2024 12 of 554 Artist Award Descriptions and Application Requirements Distinguished Artist Award Description The Distinguished Artist Award recognizes established artists having a substantial body of work that display merit and excellence, as well as a history of contributions to their artistic field and the community. Prior winners of the Distinguished Artist Award have taught art classes, participated in shows or performances, and won awards for their work. Applicants for the Distinguished Artist Award will be evaluated on their use of media, tools, design and composition of their submitted portfolio. The Commission will be looking to see if the artist has demonstrated a high level of skill and ability in the selected techniques for the pieces chosen for their submitted portfolio. Creativity and originality will also be observed and evaluated, including connection to the award program theme. All applicants must include a written personal statement that includes goals, education, training, volunteerism, community involvement and any achievements or awards. Applicants can participate in any of the following artistic categories: Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Literary Arts, or Digital Arts. There is a cash award of $1000 for the Distinguished Artist platinum winner (1st place). To receive funds, a completed W-9 will be requested. How to Apply  Who may apply: Artists must live in Cupertino or attend high school, college and/or art school physically located within Cupertino.  Deadline: Applications must be submitted by Tuesday, October 1 at 4:30 p.m.  Complete Online Application HERE Online Application Requirements 1. Submitted Application 2. Personal Statement (maximum 1 page) 3. One letter of endorsement and/or support, which includes relationship to artist. 4. Digital portfolio: (saved as PDF, JPG, JPEG, or PNG) *At least one piece in the portfolio must connect to the 2024 award program theme: 2024 Artist Awards Theme - “Building Sustainable Community” Artists submitting visual art can include up to three pieces that best represent the artists’ body 13 ACC 11-04-2024 13 of 554 of work. Performing artists’ may submit no more than five minutes worth of performances, film entries may submit no more than five minutes worth of film, and literary artists’ may submit no more than a total of five pages. Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated art is strictly prohibited. Submitting pieces from a previous Artist Awards submission is highly discouraged. 5. Resume and exhibition record (if any and maximum 2 pages) Winners who receive cash awards must:  Be willing to work with the Arts and Culture Commission to promote the arts in the community through participation in one or more events designed for that purpose.  Acknowledge the recognition of the City of Cupertino on any printed advertising, programs or brochures they produce related to the award. Questions? Please email artistawards@cupertino.gov   14 ACC 11-04-2024 14 of 554     CITY OF CUPERTINO  YOUNG ARTIST AWARD EVALUATION FORM          Artist Name      Commissioner Name      Evaluate the submission on each of the three evaluation criteria indicated below, from 5 points (high)  to 1 point (low).       Evaluation Criteria Points Notes  Media/Tools  ‐ Has the artist demonstrated a level of skill and  ability in the selected techniques? Does the piece  display an effective use of tools, methods, and  working materials? Has the artist used materials  and skills to make an effective piece for what they  are trying to convey?    Creativity   ‐ How well has the artist conveyed the contest  theme? Is there evidence of creative thought?   Can it be understood by others?    Originality  ‐ How well does the artist showcase their  individuality in the piece?      Total Points__________/15  15 ACC 11-04-2024 15 of 554     CITY OF CUPERTINO  EMERGING ARTIST AWARD EVALUATION FORM          Artist Name      Commissioner Name      Evaluate the submission on each of the three evaluation criteria indicated below, from 5 points (high)  to 1 point (low).             Total Points__________/15 Evaluation Criteria Points Notes  Media/Tools  ‐ Do the pieces display an effective use of tools,  methods, and working materials? Has the artist  used materials and skills to make an effective  piece for what they are trying to convey?    Creativity and Originality  ‐ Is the work executed in a manner that is unique to the  idea expressed? Is there evidence of creative thought?  How well has the artist conveyed the contest theme?    Personal Statement  ‐ Does the personal statement include goals,  education, training, volunteerism, community  involvement, and/or achievements and awards?    16 ACC 11-04-2024 16 of 554 CITY OF CUPERTINO  DISTINGUISHED ARTIST AWARD EVALUATION FORM          Artist Name      Commissioner Name      Evaluate the submission on each of the four evaluation criteria indicated below, from 5 points (high)  to 1 point (low).                Total Points__________/20  Evaluation Criteria Points Notes  Media/Tools  ‐ Has the artist demonstrated a high level of skill  and/or ability in the selected techniques that they  have chosen for their artwork? Do the pieces  display an effective use of tools, methods, and  working materials? Has the artist used materials  and skills to effectively portray what they are  trying to convey?    Design and Composition  ‐ Observe the totality of the artists portfolio. Consider if  the following elements and principles are evident in  their work. Note that not all principles will apply to  every medium.  o *Principles: Unity, Balance,  Rhythm/Movement, Emphasis, Contrast  o *Elements: Line, Shape, Space, Form, Color,  Value, Texture  o *For additional guidance on the principles and  elements, see below the criteria table.    Creativity and Originality  ‐ Is the work executed in a manner that is unique to the  idea expressed? Is there evidence of creative thought?   How well has the artist conveyed the contest theme?  Personal Statement  ‐ Does the personal statement include goals,  education, training, volunteerism, community  involvement, and/or achievements and awards?    17 ACC 11-04-2024 17 of 554     Design and Composition  Observe the totality of the artists portfolio. Consider if the following elements and principles are evident  in their work. Note that not all the principles will apply to every medium.  Principles  Unity: Do the parts work as a whole? Consider the marks, shapes, colors, values, and textures.  Balance: Is there an equal distribution of visual weight? Has symmetrical or asymmetrical balance been created in the  shapes, colors, textures, and values?  Rhythm/Movement: Is there fluidity of form in three‐dimensional works? Are there shapes or directional lines to  connect pieces within two‐dimensional works? Does your eye travel around the entire picture plane?  Emphasis: Is there a defined focal point or center of interest?  Contrast: Is there a variety of values, shapes, colors, lines and textures?    Elements  Line: Is there variety of line? Have lines been used to create texture, perspective, or movement?  Shape: Is there variety of shape? Are the shapes used been successfully created and used in the work?  Space: Has the illusion of foreground, middle ground, and background shape been successfully created?  Form: Has the illusion of depth been successfully created in two‐dimensional works? Have appropriate figures  been used to represent the ideas within three‐dimensional works?  Color: Is there a variety of color? Have colors been used to create space or emotion?  Value: Is there a defined light source? Have highlights, shadows, and cast shadows been included in the art?  Texture: Are there visual or tactile surface characteristics in the work? Does it have a variety of texture and interesting  patterns?  18 ACC 11-04-2024 18 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #1 19 ACC 11-04-2024 19 of 554 20 ACC 11-04-2024 20 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #2 21 ACC 11-04-2024 21 of 554 22 ACC 11-04-2024 22 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #3 23 ACC 11-04-2024 23 of 554 24 ACC 11-04-2024 24 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #4 25 ACC 11-04-2024 25 of 554 26 ACC 11-04-2024 26 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #5 27 ACC 11-04-2024 27 of 554 28 ACC 11-04-2024 28 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #6 29 ACC 11-04-2024 29 of 554 30 ACC 11-04-2024 30 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #7 31 ACC 11-04-2024 31 of 554 32 ACC 11-04-2024 32 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #8 33 ACC 11-04-2024 33 of 554 34 ACC 11-04-2024 34 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #9 35 ACC 11-04-2024 35 of 554 36 ACC 11-04-2024 36 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #10 37 ACC 11-04-2024 37 of 554 38 ACC 11-04-2024 38 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #11 39 ACC 11-04-2024 39 of 554 40ACC 11-04-2024 40 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #12 41 ACC 11-04-2024 41 of 554 42 ACC 11-04-2024 42 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #13 43 ACC 11-04-2024 43 of 554 44 ACC 11-04-2024 44 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #14 45 ACC 11-04-2024 45 of 554 46 ACC 11-04-2024 46 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #15 47 ACC 11-04-2024 47 of 554 48 ACC 11-04-2024 48 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #16 49 ACC 11-04-2024 49 of 554 50 ACC 11-04-2024 50 of 554 2024 Young Artist 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of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #26 69 ACC 11-04-2024 69 of 554 70 ACC 11-04-2024 70 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #27 71 ACC 11-04-2024 71 of 554 72 ACC 11-04-2024 72 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #28 73 ACC 11-04-2024 73 of 554 74 ACC 11-04-2024 74 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #29 75 ACC 11-04-2024 75 of 554 76 ACC 11-04-2024 76 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #30 77 ACC 11-04-2024 77 of 554 78 ACC 11-04-2024 78 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #31 79 ACC 11-04-2024 79 of 554 80 ACC 11-04-2024 80 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #32 81 ACC 11-04-2024 81 of 554 82 ACC 11-04-2024 82 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #33 83 ACC 11-04-2024 83 of 554 84 ACC 11-04-2024 84 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group A (6-10 years old) #34 85 ACC 11-04-2024 85 of 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388 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group B (11-14 years old) #79 389 ACC 11-04-2024 389 of 554 390 ACC 11-04-2024 390 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group B (11-14 years old) #80 391 ACC 11-04-2024 391 of 554 392 ACC 11-04-2024 392 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group B (11-14 years old) #81 393 ACC 11-04-2024 393 of 554 394 ACC 11-04-2024 394 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group B (11-14 years old) #82 395 ACC 11-04-2024 395 of 554 396 ACC 11-04-2024 396 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group B (11-14 years old) #83 397 ACC 11-04-2024 397 of 554 398 ACC 11-04-2024 398 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group B (11-14 years old) #84 399 ACC 11-04-2024 399 of 554 400 ACC 11-04-2024 400 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group B (11-14 years old) #85 401 ACC 11-04-2024 401 of 554 402 ACC 11-04-2024 402 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group B (11-14 years old) #86 403 ACC 11-04-2024 403 of 554 404 ACC 11-04-2024 404 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group B (11-14 years old) #87 405 ACC 11-04-2024 405 of 554 406 ACC 11-04-2024 406 of 554 2024 Young Artist Submission Group B (11-14 years old) #88 407 ACC 11-04-2024 407 of 554 408 ACC 11-04-2024 408 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #1 Aditi Vaduri 409 ACC 11-04-2024 409 of 554 Aditi Vaduri’s Journey Through Dance: Emerging Artist Award My decade of dancing has taught me to dance to the beat of my drums. I finally realized what this saying truly meant when I stepped onto the UC Santa Barbara's stage in 2023. Standing under the dimmed lights, the beat and melody of the Indian classical music pulsed through my veins. My nimble, crimson-tipped fingers emulated the waves of a river that flowed naturally to the music. The soles of my feet delicately but firmly tread over the stage in accordance with the beats.Tha Khi Ta. At this moment, I realized dance was more than just following the choreography and perfecting the movements; rather, it was about adding my own flavor of emotions, creativity, and, most importantly, meaning to the dance. Each movement reflected who I am, not just as a Bharatanatyam dancer but also as an individual with a voice for a cause. The art form had become my voice, one that I could raise awareness and support for causes close to my heart, like providing a home for every person. In the summer of 2023, I set out to create my non-profit organization,Young Hearts 4 A Better World (YH4BW), where I could channel my passion for Indian classical dance into an actual source of support for homeless shelters, helping those in need of basic hygiene supplies. The organization's vision is to create an environment where young children could engage monthly in showcasing their talents to fundraise and raise awareness for the lack of hygiene products in homeless shelters. So far, through this, I have raised more than four hundred dollars, buying more than three hundred hygiene products for shelters like LifeMoves. Additionally, in my free time, I take classes at the local senior center to teach older citizens basic dance moves. I teach the seniors the science and importance behind the adavus, or movements, in Indian classical dance forms, allowing them to reconnect with their bodies and express themselves. Through these efforts, I've discovered that my passion for Indian Classical Dance, Bharatnatyam, can go beyond mere creative expression and ultimately serve as an avenue for promoting a sustainable, compassionate community. Each step or gesture creates an environment where people unite for a united purpose. Ultimately, that is what a sustainable community is, an environment where people feel supported and cared for. My journey as a Bharatanatyam dancer has shown me that dance can unite people, reminding us it takes passion and a little courage to make a difference. By dancing to the beat of my anklets, I've discovered a way to combine my love for dance with my desire to make a difference in the world, one step at a time. 410 ACC 11-04-2024 410 of 554 Aditi Vaduri Cupertino, California •• Education Stratford Preparatory High School Anticipated Graduation:June 2026 Stratford Raynor Middle School Graduation:June 2022 Activities Synopsys Championship 7th Grade - 10th Grade Projects: ○A Wearable Device For Relieving Diabetic Neuropathy Using Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation Methods (7th Grade) ○Decoding The Unpredictable Behaviors of ASD Students (8th Grade) ○Efficacy of Botanical Herbs in Ameliorating Metal Ions Through Mediated Oxidative Stress in Alzheimer's Disease (9th Grade) ■Goal: To determine whether herbal botanicals (Ashwagandha + Turmeric) ameliorate metal ions produced through meditative oxidative stress in Alzheimer’s Disease. ○Deciphering Genetic Tapestry: Predicting the Likelihood of Cancer Metastasis With Logistic Regression and Centrality Models (10th Grade) ■Goal:To find out which features are more critical in the diagnosis of breast cancer Summer Research Program: Divergent Minds & Neurotribes in UC Santa Barbara (UCSB)9th Grade Summer ●Contributed to a research paper “Analysis of First-Generation Antipsychotic Drug Groups in Reducing the Positive Symptoms of Schizophrenia in American Veterans” with two other students ●Sent the paper for publication to the Journal of High School Science ●Collected and Analyzed Data from Academic Papers from the UC Santa Barbara Digital Library ●Received 4 Credits For UC College Internship at UTHouston 10th Grade Summer ●Shadowed a Cardiologist Associate Professor & Surgeon Conrad Challenge 10th -11th Grade ●Currently participating in 10th Grade under the Health/Nutrition Category ●Nominated As Team Leader For Competition Team BioGenius/ Paradigm Challenge 10th Grade Young Hearts For A Better World 9th Grade - 11th Grade ●Founder, President of Non-Profit Organization “Young Hearts For A Better World” ●Donated Canned Goods in LifeMoves (Homeless Shelter) (368 goods) Harmony In Motion 10th - 11th Grade Performed Bharatanatyam in Senior Center for Alzheimer and Dementia Patients (120 seniors) 1 411 ACC 11-04-2024 411 of 554 Future Innovators Club 10th Grade - 11th Grade ●Founder and President of the “Future Innovators” Club - Science Fair Club ●Organized and Competed 2 Competitions For Team (ConRad + Synopsys Championship) Model United Nations Club 9th Grade ●Nominated as Secretary for the Model United Nations (MUN) club ●Organized 4 Competitions with the Club President (GUNN HS, NUEVA CONFERENCE, BERKELEY CONFERENCE, & SCV MUN) ●Attended 2 Competitions (GUNN HIGH SCHOOL, NUEVA CONFERENCE) Student Council 8th Grade - 11th Grade Bharatanatyam (Indian Classical Dance Form)Student/Mentor/Volunteer for 10 years ●Mentored beginner and intermediate batches in VDA Dance Academy ●Participated in over 30 performances in the SF Bay Area ●Raised funds through Annual Academy Performances for Aram Sei (Non-profit organization) in 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 to aid grass-root charities in India with the goal of providing education and health care to the underprivileged. ●SAMPADA Bharatanatyam Junior Certification Completed, Senior Certification Work In Progress *(Certificate program for students learning Indian Classical Music and Dance in the USA and Canada) ●Gave a GRITx Talk in UCSB on my passion about Bharatanatyam - Indian Classical Dance Form - 9th Grade Summer Skills Teamwork •Communication •Public Speaking •Impromptu •Badminton •Hard Work •Time Management • Bharatanatyam •Carnatic Music Courses ●Honors Biology •Honors Chemistry • Honors Physics • AP World History • AP Biology • AP Computer Science Principles • Rice University: Medical Terminology 1 (Coursera) • Mission College: Introduction to Neuroscience • San Bernadino Valley College: Genetics • Santa Ana College: Biotechnology Awards Synopsys ●2022 - Honorable Mention, Physical Science and Engineering Category ●2022 - Gr 6-8: Honorable Mention, Certificate of Achievement, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Intelligent Systems Award ●2023 - Certificate of Recognition from City of Cupertino for performance in Synopsys Championship ●2023 - Honorable Mention, Biological Science and Engineering Category Bharatanatyam ●2019 - Received “ Best Dancer Award” in VDA Academy ●2021 - SAMPADA (Silicon Andhra Music, Performing Arts and Dance) Exam; Passed with Distinction: Level 1 ●2022 - SAMPADA (Silicon Andhra Music, Performing Arts and Dance) Exam; Passed with Distinction: Level 2 ●2024 - SAMPADA (Silicon Andhra Music, Performing Arts and Dance) Exam; Passed: Level 3 2 412 ACC 11-04-2024 412 of 554 Stratford PreparatorySchool 3800BlackfordAvenue San Jose,CA 95117 September 28,2024 CityofCupertino Arts andCulture Commission 10300TorreAvenue Cupertino, CA95014 DearMembersoftheArts andCultureCommission, Iamhonoredtowritethisletterofendorsement forAditiVaduri,whois applyingfor theCity of Cupertino's "EmergingArtistAward."I havehadtheprivilege ofwitnessinghergrowth anddedication asanartist, and Ibelievesheisahighlydeservingcandidateforthisrecognition. Aditiisanexceptionally talented Bharatanatyamdancer,havingdedicatedmostof herlife tomastering this classicalIndianart form. Hertechnicalskillsare vast, asdemonstrated byhernumerous certicationsfrom prestigiousprograms likeSAMPADA.However,whatI haveobservedin her performances atourschool ishow sheinfusesher performanceswithdeep emotionandcreativity, transformingeach danceintoauniqueexpression ofher individualityandartistry. Beyondher artistictalent,Aditiisdeeplycommittedtousingherarttofostera moresustainableand compassionatecommunity.Throughhernon-protorganization,Young Hearts4A BetterWorld (YH4BW), shehas raised signicant funds toprovidehygieneproductsforhomelessshelters, suchas LifeMoves.Aditi’s dedicationextendsfurther toherworkwithsenior citizens,wheresheteaches dance classesthatemphasizethephysicaland emotionalbenetsof Bharatanatyam.Thesesessions allowher studentstoreconnect with theirbodiesand ndjoyinmovement,reecting herbeliefinthepowerof art tohealandbringpeopletogether. As someonewhohas witnessedmyown parentslose mobility, autonomy, andexpression intheirolderyears,I nd Aditi’sworkinthis eld incrediblymoving. This connectionbetweenartandcommunityimpactis what makes Aditianidealcandidatefor anaward focusedon emerging artistswhoaremakingadierence intheircommunity. 413 ACC 11-04-2024 413 of 554 IhavenodoubtthatAditiwillcontinueto growasbothan artist and aleader inourcommunity.Her combinationofartisticexcellence,leadership,and compassionmakehera standout individual deservingof recognition.Iwholeheartedlyendorseher fortheEmergingArtistAward and am condent that shewillcontinuetocontributepositivelytotheCupertinocommunityandbeyond. Pleasedonothesitateto reachoutifyourequireany further informationorclaricationregardingmy endorsement. Sincerely, JessieFussell High School English Teacher Stratford PreparatorySchool 414 ACC 11-04-2024 414 of 554 415 ACC 11-04-2024 415 of 554 Aditi Vaduri Performing Artist Submission YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/wat ch?v=xJfx4aG8D58 Please copy and paste URL into web browser. 416 ACC 11-04-2024 416 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #2 Arnav Daga 417 ACC 11-04-2024 417 of 554 Rooted in Simplicity By Arnav Daga The ocean ebbed and flowed onto the warm sand of the small island. The scent of mushroom soup was like an evenly sprayed perfume across the village, and people lined up to get a taste. Kids plant interesting curly trees that offer huge blooming pink and purple flowers. Humans and snails and snakes and aliens all live in harmony. They perform rituals together in a circle, under the shade provided by fabric. Families large and small gather around the artist to watch him perfect his work. Huge teepees elegantly tower over the people, each one the home forever for the next generation of kids and the current families. I approached this project by thinking to myself, “How have we lost our togetherness?” I found answers in tribes and the native americans, who all work together in everyday lives, and make the most of the materials around them. In our everyday hustle and bustle, we get stuck in social media’s expectations and higher than normal standards. Maybe advancing technology led to the eventual loss of ourselves in our world. I wanted to draw a community that was rid of all of the expectations created by society, and was close with nature. These people connect with nature, and love it. They read books by the lollipop trees, they sleep by campfires with otherworldly creatures. Going back to our roots can help us be together, and advance to a stronger community. Regardless of who it is, alien or human, they have fun. They treat their nature like they treat their friends, and protect their environment. That’s what really leads to a sustainable community. 418 ACC 11-04-2024 418 of 554 Arnav Daga Resume Education Currently 10th grade at Cupertino High School Accomplishments ● 100 hours as being an assistant teacher at a local art school ● Participated in Congressional Art Award and Bowseat competition ● Traveled to Taiwan as part of the delegation of the Cupertino Sister City Exchange Program ● Part of the Teen Advisory Board for the Cupertino Library ● Member of Cupertino High School Water Polo JV team 419 ACC 11-04-2024 419 of 554 To City of Cupertino Arts and Culture Commission Artist Awards To whom it may concern - I am writing to endorse/support my son, Arnav Daga, a 15-year-old student at Cupertino High School. His artistic abilities are truly remarkable, characterized by an extraordinary level of creativity and the curiosity for new techniques. However, Arnav's time management skills need improvement. He should engage in more effective planning and brainstorming sessions to complete art projects within the allotted time frame, thus amplifying his potential. I hope you will consider him worthy of the Emerging Artist Award. With warm regards, Subhash Daga 420 ACC 11-04-2024 420 of 554 421 ACC 11-04-2024 421 of 554 422 ACC 11-04-2024 422 of 554 423 ACC 11-04-2024 423 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #3 Arsh Abhinkar 424 ACC 11-04-2024 424 of 554 Arsh Abhinkar Personal Statement This piece was created to represent how we should care for this Earth. The only Earth we have and the only one we’ll ever have. I deeply care about the environment and I sincerely hope that my piece spreads a message to our city to protect our one and only home. 425 ACC 11-04-2024 425 of 554 My son Arsh Abhinkar is a 9th grader at Monta Vista High School. When he was 10 he drew a hand symbolizing a deeper meaning for his dad for father’s day. It was a child’s hand holding his dads hand. From then on his connection and love for art grew. He loves to bring his imagination to life on paper, many of his drawings carrying a deeper meaning with them. — His mom, Bindiya Abhinkar 426 ACC 11-04-2024 426 of 554 427 ACC 11-04-2024 427 of 554 428 ACC 11-04-2024 428 of 554 429 ACC 11-04-2024 429 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #4 Ashley Yang 430 ACC 11-04-2024 430 of 554 Hello! This is Ashley Yang, a senior at Monta Vista High School. I have drawn since a young age and it has always been a fun activity to be able to express my unique imagination and creativity. I also love to go to art museums and appreciate all different sorts of crafts and artistry. As an artist, I love drawing along very sentimental and personal themes like my childhood and feelings. Art has been a way for me to convey my emotions in recurring metaphors. I enjoy the connection and analysis of symbols and themes in literature which I like to incorporate in my art to make it more meaningful and personal. Subjects I tend to draw a lot are fish because they can have a lot of superficial but also profound associated meanings that I like to experiment with and explore. Some examples of how I have incorporated fish into my drawings are a fish peaking out of water seeing the life outside of water and a dead goldfish as a symbol of irresponsibilty and disconnected love for animals. My favorite processes of art are sketches and paintings. I tend to do a lot of paintings because I enjoy the smooth blending of colors and experimenting with different colors. I have also a great love for pen techniques and using pens to render out different values and impression. Outside of art, I am also active in school clubs and extracurriculars. Some clubs I am in involve subjects like business, science, volunteering, and culture. Participating in clubs has been great for me to meet new people with the same interests. I have developed my leadership and work management skills as I am co-president of the Chinese Honors Society this year. I also work part-time at an art school called Hongyun Art as a front desk receptionist which has helped me develop customer service and people skills. Even with my great love of the sciences, the arts have always been special and comforting to me. I have very passionate interests in literature and liberal arts which I am working on exploring. I am also very committed to playing volleyball because I believe playing sport teaches so many useful lessons of life such as maintaining a drive and positive mentality through tough situations. 431 ACC 11-04-2024 431 of 554 432 ACC 11-04-2024 432 of 554 433 ACC 11-04-2024 433 of 554 434 ACC 11-04-2024 434 of 554 435 ACC 11-04-2024 435 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #5 Claire Ge 436 ACC 11-04-2024 436 of 554 Through my art, I hope to shed light on the topics that I care deeply about, entwining emotion and educating with every piece. My hope is not only to evoke emotion but to leave a lasting, tangible mark—a ripple of change that endures long after the art itself fades. I use my artwork to explore the facets of building a sustainable community—environmentally, spiritually, and personally. The fast fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to environmental damage, consuming limited natural resources and generating excessive waste that contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. To counter this, my first piece repurposes an old tank top into a new garment, adorned with natural, sustainable materials. Using pomegranate rinds to dye the fabric and flowers from my neighborhood to create a striking design, I transform the top into something beautiful. This piece highlights both the beauty and utility of nature, showcasing how we can create meaningful, aesthetically pleasing items from sustainable practices. Spiritual sustainability is just as essential as environmental and personal sustainability. A spiritually sustainable community fosters a deep connection with oneself, others, and the natural world, nurturing a sense of responsibility to treat the earth and its creatures with care. In my second piece, I symbolize this connection through a girl transforming into a hummingbird, an animal vital to the ecosystem as a pollinator. The hummingbird represents harmony with nature, emphasizing the role we play in maintaining a sustainable balance within the environment. Lastly, my third piece explores what makes a community personally sustainable. I focus on how meaningful relationships and support systems contribute to a community’s strength. Using graphite, I depicted intimate scenes from my friendships, moments where we grew closer, set against a backdrop of scattered stars symbolizing hope. Each element in the artwork reflects the ways we find connection, comfort, and care in our everyday lives, even during difficult times. Through this artwork, I aim to convey how small acts of kindness, personal reflection, and shared experiences contribute to building a compassionate and sustainable community. For as long as I can remember, art has been a vital part of my life. Through formal art lessons, I developed a strong artistic foundation and explored diverse ways of expressing my voice through my work. Beyond personal growth, I have had the privilege of using my art to make a broader impact. As a three-year member of the National Art Honors Society, I participated in several meaningful projects, including the Ukraine Memory Project, the Cambodia Memory Project, the Colombia Memory Project, and the India Orphanage Memory Project. Through these initiatives, I had the opportunity to draw portraits of individuals in poverty or those affected by war and crisis, offering not only a piece of art but also a gesture of hope and encouragement. These experiences deeply impacted my understanding of art’s power to connect with others and inspire change. My leadership roles in and outside the art world have also shaped me. I served as the Student Council Public Relations officer during my freshman and sophomore years. For three summers, I led my art school’s art camp, teaching younger students and sharing my love for creativity for a total of nine weeks. I am passionate about advocating for representation, particularly through my work with the Asian American Pacific Islander Silicon Valley organization, and as the co-director of All Can Art, where we strive to make art accessible to everyone. My commitment to growth and advocacy also led me to attend UCLA Fine Arts Summer Camp, where I was able to further refine my skills alongside other passionate young artists. As Vice President of the Chinese Culture Club, I continue to explore and promote cultural awareness, merging my love of art with my dedication to advocacy and leadership. I’ve been fortunate to receive recognition for my efforts, including three consecutive Presidents Award Gold honors (2022, 2023, and 2024), an Honorary Mention in the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition, and the privilege of having my work displayed by the Los Altos Rotary. 437 ACC 11-04-2024 437 of 554 438 ACC 11-04-2024 438 of 554 https://youtube.com/shorts/hxnDqJxN-dU?feature=share 439 ACC 11-04-2024 439 of 554 440 ACC 11-04-2024 440 of 554 441 ACC 11-04-2024 441 of 554 442 ACC 11-04-2024 442 of 554 443 ACC 11-04-2024 443 of 554 444 ACC 11-04-2024 444 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #6 Hema Kundargi 445 ACC 11-04-2024 445 of 554 Personal statement As the world went into a pandemic lockdown, I took my first step into the world of art. The lockdown gave me the precious gift of time to gently delve into my creative spirit and it provided a much needed distraction to cope with constant fear and upheaval around me. The first artwork in March 2020 was an abstract art of ‘Ganesha’ the Indian deity who removes obstacles in life, and later I posted it on social media. It was a pleasant surprise when I received beautiful, heartfelt comments, which encouraged me to continue my art exploration. My friends, family and neighbors started requesting my paintings for their own houses or to give to their loved ones. It dawned on me that making art gave me a sense of purpose and joy and made others feel grounded and joyful too. The local Indian news magazine India Currents wrote a story about my art journey and resulted in an invitation to participate in an art auction for Cancer Relief Foundation. What started as a simple hobby is now my passion and sharing my paintings is my way to give back to the community. All the sale proceeds from my paintings go towards the cancer research foundation. In the past 4 years I have had two art shows and have raised $5800 with the optimism that the ripple effects of research will benefit the community for generations to come. Over the years I have grown as an artist and I am able to add color to my own life and the lives of others. I challenged myself to focus on resourcefulness to create art with recycled materials to reduce carbon footprint and promote circular economy. It is my humble effort to avoid landfill and contribute a tiny drop in the vast ocean of reducing waste. I was inspired by a quote, about the power of one, by the Dalai Lama, ‘If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito’ I look forward to continuing my art journey and to embrace the healing power of the arts. Painting has given me a purpose with self discovery, a challenge to think outside the box and an unique way to give back to the community. The three paintings which highlights my art journey since March 2020 1. Ripples of peace: I used an old bed sheet to create texture and transformed the canvas into shimmering waves for a serene effect. ( Acrylic painting ) 2. Vibrant rolling hills: An unused cheesecloth in my pantry was artistically used on canvas to create rolling hills with vibrant colors ( Acrylic Painting ) 3. Tranquil sunset to energize and foster inner peace ( Oil) 446 ACC 11-04-2024 446 of 554 Art Shows ● October 2022 : Participated in Art Auction for Cancer for Relief Foundation and raised $4800 ● September 2024: Participated in Art show at ‘Colors - Indian festival at UC Davis’ and raised $1000 for St Jude’s Cancer Research Foundation 447 ACC 11-04-2024 447 of 554 448 ACC 11-04-2024 448 of 554 449 ACC 11-04-2024 449 of 554 450 ACC 11-04-2024 450 of 554 451 ACC 11-04-2024 451 of 554 452 ACC 11-04-2024 452 of 554 453 ACC 11-04-2024 453 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #7 Iris Zheng 454 ACC 11-04-2024 454 of 554 Personal Statement for Cupertino Emerging Artist Award Application My name is Iris Zheng, and I am 15 years old. From a young age, I have found joy in expressing myself through various forms of art and crafts. Recently, I have particularly gravitated towards painting, experimenting with mediums like gouache and acrylic. Art has always provided me with a calming space, offering a break from my busy schedule. Throughout my art journey, I have primarily focused on creating aesthetically pleasing pieces, as that sense of beauty brought me a sense of satisfaction. However, more recently, I’ve been challenging myself to be more reflective—allowing my personal experiences to guide my work, even if the process isn't traditionally "beautiful." I am excited to showcase three pieces to the Cupertino Emerging Artist Award. Two of them represent my exploration of surrealism in painting, while the third aligns with the 2024 theme, "Building a Sustainable Community." For this project, I experimented with a new medium: 3D mixed media. Inspired by Apple’s Cupertino headquarters, “the spaceship,” I wanted to highlight the balance between modern technology and nature, emphasizing the importance of preserving our environment. To me, building a sustainable community means advancing with technology while remaining deeply connected to the natural world around us. In this piece, I decided to take a literal approach, using everyday materials to create a model that reflects this balance. I worked primarily with different types of paper, secured with glue, and included real leaves from my backyard to emphasize the role of nature. The process was both challenging and enjoyable, as I navigated through trial and error to bring my vision to life. As an emerging artist, I am excited to continue exploring various artistic styles and techniques in search of my niche. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my work and hope that my pieces will resonate with viewers in meaningful ways. 455 ACC 11-04-2024 455 of 554 456 ACC 11-04-2024 456 of 554 457 ACC 11-04-2024 457 of 554 458 ACC 11-04-2024 458 of 554 459 ACC 11-04-2024 459 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #8 Jessica Kwandou 460 ACC 11-04-2024 460 of 554 My name is Jessica Kwandou, and I am currently a senior at Saint Francis High School. This year, I am applying for the City of Cupertino Emerging Artist Award, hoping to continue my journey in using art as a medium for social change and connection. I have been a student at Hongyun Art School since 2017, where I have had the privilege of learning from some of the finest teachers and peers. Their guidance has inspired and encouraged me to explore and express my creativity through painting. Art, for me, is a universal language that transcends cultural, social, and linguistic boundaries, allowing for the free expression of emotions and ideas. In 2018, I began my journey as a teaching assistant at Hongyun Art, which greatly expanded my involvement in the artistic community. By 2021, I was promoted to Teaching Assistant Director, which allowed me to lead community projects like the Cupertino Library Expansion Mural and contribute to events such as Cupertino Earth Day, promoting environmental awareness and celebrating diversity in experience. Through my volunteering efforts, I have earned the Presidential Volunteer Service Gold Award for two years. My high school experience has been equally fulfilling. I pursued formal art exploration when I took AP Drawing in 2023 and earned a score of 5. As the Rally Coordinator on Senior Student Council, I have led the production of creative videos that boost school spirit, fostering unity among students. Additionally, as Vice President of the Paintbox Club, I organize activities that encourage creativity and connection within our school, such as leading the creation of a collaborative film with club members, selling Christmas cards for profit, and hosting face painting booths at school events. These roles have taught me that art can break down social barriers and bring people together. In one of my pieces, “The Future is in Our Hands,” I incorporated food waste into my sculpture, repurposing and giving the trash a second chance to practice sustainable art making. The various pieces of trash form the base of a tree, representing the foundation upon which change can grow. In this work, I sculpted a hand holding a seed out of clay, symbolizing nature uplifting the seed of understanding. Our community can come together to rethink waste, and give new life to what is often overlooked, and that small, collective actions can lead to a more sustainable and connected community. Art has always been my chosen form of expression. My work often centers around themes of self-identity, environmental conservation, and cultural heritage. Participating in various art competitions has allowed me to use my work as a voice for change, advocating for causes I am passionate about. I was honored to receive the City of Cupertino's Young Artist Award in 2020 and to have my work featured on the front cover of the Cupertino Scene . My artwork has also received recognition in contests such as the Dr. Jerry Hiura Next Generation Visual Artist Award, the Watershed Watch Earth Day Poster Challenge, and the Bowseat Ocean Awareness Contest. Through art, I have gained a new perspective on the world and a deeper appreciation for the stories and emotions that often go unnoticed. I have witnessed how art allows me to connect with people I might otherwise never interact with, finding common ground and building mutual understanding. As I plan to pursue art in college, I look forward to expanding my skills and using art to connect with even more diverse communities. This award would not only support my growth as an artist but also empower me to bring back the knowledge and experiences I gain in college to contribute to and inspire my local community. I am deeply honored to be considered for the City of Cupertino Emerging Artist Award and excited for the opportunity to continue my journey in using art as a tool for expression, awareness, and unity. 461 ACC 11-04-2024 461 of 554 Jessica Audrey Kwandou https://jessicakwandou.myportfolio.com/ || EDUCATION St. Francis High School, Mountain View, CA Expected Graduation: May 2025 ●Cumulative GPA: 3.92/4.0 (unweighted), 4.54/5.0 (weighted) ●Relevant Coursework: ○AP Drawing (Score: 5) ○Vice President of Paintbox Club ○Art Editor for The Lancer school publication AWARDS, HONORS, EXHIBITIONS, & PUBLICATIONS ●Dr. Jerry Hiura Next Gen Visual Artist Award | April 2024 1st Place Winner ○ Awarded a $3,000 prize for the painting "Self-Reflection"in a county-wide competition with over 130 submissions on the theme "Embracing Identity." ●Scholastic Art & Writing Awards | May 2022 – Present ○Art: ■Gold Key: "Self-Portrait" (2024), "Detached" (2023), "Enigma" (2022) ■Silver Key: "Limbo" (2023), "Trapped" (2022) ■Honorable Mention: "Enlightenment" (2024), "Leaves" (2024), "Baby Drugs" (2023), "Chaos" (2023) ○Writing: ■Gold Key: "Shadows of the Forgotten" (2024) ■Honorable Mention: "Chasing Colors" (2023), "Perfectly Imperfect" (2022) ○Photography: ■Silver Key: "Unexpected Companion" (2024) ■Honorable Mention: "Bedouin Man with Rebab" (2023) ●Bay Area Creative Foundation’s Creative Youth Awards | December 2023 – April 2024 Exceptional Award in Visual Art ○ Selected from 1,800 submissions; received a $200 prize and publication of the painting "Self-Portrait." ●Celebrating Art Competition | 2022 – Present ○High Merit Winner: "Let’s Go Fishin’" (Spring 2024) ○Published Works: "Self-Portrait" (Fall 2023), "Detached" (Summer 2022), "Water Inequality" (Fall 2021) ●Los Altos Rotary’s Young at Art Contest | April 2023 – August 2023 2nd Place Winner ○ Awarded for the painting "Self-Portrait"; featured in exhibitions at the Los Altos main library and the Los Altos Rotary Club Fine Art in the Park. ●Bowseat Ocean Awareness Art & Writing Contest | May 2022 – May 2023 ○Notable Awards: "Enlightenment" (2023), "Noah’s Arch Enemy" (2022) ●To Be Honest Art Competition | June 2022-July 2022 2nd Place Winner ○ Recognized for the 2D artwork "Bee Free"in a county-wide contest promoting mental health awareness. ●Open Door Magazine | 2022 ○Published Works: ■ Illustration: "Make Peace, Not War" ■ Poem: "Birthday Blues" ■ Personal Memoir: "Stepping Towards a Better Tomorrow" 462 ACC 11-04-2024 462 of 554 ●Watershed Watch Earth Day Poster Challenge | 2022 1st Place Winner ○ Awarded for an Earth Day poster emphasizing the importance of local waterways. ●City of Cupertino Young Artist Award | 2021 3rd Place Silver Award ○ Recognized for the digital painting "The Year 2020—The New Normal." LEADERSHIP & WORK EXPERIENCE Vice President, Paintbox Club |Saint Francis High School,Mountain View, CA (May 2022 – Present) ● Organized open studio sessions for 100+ members, fostering artistic growth. ● Led fundraising initiatives, raising $2,000 through designing and selling Christmas cards. ● Directed a collaborative animation film with a team of 20 members. ● Coordinated "Drawtober," a month-long art challenge with daily prompts. Teaching Assistant General Manager |Hongyun Art, Cupertino, CA (May 2021 – Present) ● Directed a team of over 100 teaching assistants and 6 directors. ● Designed monthly lesson plans and organized biannual art competitions. ● Led community art projects, including a mural for the Cupertino Library Expansion Program. ● Facilitated art workshops and classes for diverse groups, including special needs communities. Art Editor of The Lancer |Saint Francis High School, Mountain View, CA (Aug 2023 – Present) ● Led the creation and curation of original artwork for school publications. ● Managed art projects during intensive production weeks. ● Collaborated with editors to enhance visual storytelling and content engagement. Youth Advisory Board Member |To Be Honest, San Jose, CA (Aug 2021 – April 2024) ● Developed marketing strategies for art competitions, increasing outreach by 30%. ● Produced content for the organization's blog and social media, boosting engagement by 40%. ● Influenced policy development and advocacy efforts in mental health programs. Part-Time Concierge |Hongyun Art, Cupertino, CA (Sept 2023 – Present) ● Created engaging social media content and promotional materials. ● Contributed to developing art curriculum and informational pamphlets. ● Assisted in studio operations, ensuring a creative and welcoming environment. SKILLS & PROFICIENCIES ●Artistic Mediums: ○ Colored pencil, graphite, charcoal, acrylic, watercolor, gouache, mixed media, photography, digital art, oil pastel, sculpture. ●Software Proficiency: ○ Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, Lightroom, InDesign, Procreate, Canva ●Additional Skills: ○ Graphic design and layout ○ Videography and video editing ○ Event planning and coordination ○ Social media content creation and strategy 463 ACC 11-04-2024 463 of 554 464 ACC 11-04-2024 464 of 554 465 ACC 11-04-2024 465 of 554 466 ACC 11-04-2024 466 of 554 467 ACC 11-04-2024 467 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #9 Katie Miller 468 ACC 11-04-2024 468 of 554 Katie Miller Personal Statement In a time when the world is rapidly developing, the need for sustainable communities is more pressing than ever. My artwork explores connection, collaboration, and our relationship with nature, reflecting how sustainability is intertwined with human life and the environment. In my piece "Alone Together,"I combined watercolor and colored pencil to depict people inside bubbles, isolated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the surrounding COVID-19 viruses. I integrated a physical circuit with LED lights, a breadboard, and a battery, strategically aligning the lights with the devices used by the people in the bubbles. This mixed-media piece reflects the paradox of isolation and connection—during COVID, human interaction became reliant on digital devices. Despite the physical distance, we remained connected, illuminated by the glow of our screens. This piece's blend of traditional art and technology mirrors how our relationships have evolved in the digital age. My second piece "On Track"is a digital drawing that visualizes the endless loop of sustainability. It portrays people from different demographics and occupations working together to keep the boxes, inspired by the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, moving along a conveyor belt. Each box represents a goal, symbolizing sustainability as a continuous, collaborative process. The still image conveys movement, showing how sustainability requires a relentless effort from all sectors of society to create a lasting impact. The loop format represents the ongoing challenge of balancing progress and responsibility. My third piece "Nature's Knot"is a tribute to the intricate patterns found in nature, representing how everything is connected. Using handmade paper crafted from recycled materials, I hand-cut the design with an X-Acto knife and layered the pieces onto clear plastic sheets. The sides of the structure are wrapped in a reused beige net material. The piece changes depending on the viewer's perspective; the patterns appear darker from one side and the other lighter. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth, symbolizing how the same natural patterns can be perceived differently based on perspective. This artwork celebrates the roots of nature while emphasizing the importance of seeing and respecting nature from various angles. Through these three pieces—"Alone Together," "On Track,"and "Nature's Knot"—I explore the interconnectedness of human connection, sustainability, and nature. Each artwork reflects a facet of building sustainable communities, whether through maintaining connections in times of crisis, collaborating to achieve collective goals, or appreciating the natural world's complexity. I hope these pieces will inspire others to see sustainability not just as an environmental issue but as a holistic approach to nurturing the planet and our communities/ 469 ACC 11-04-2024 469 of 554 470 ACC 11-04-2024 470 of 554 471 ACC 11-04-2024 471 of 554 472 ACC 11-04-2024 472 of 554 473 ACC 11-04-2024 473 of 554 474 ACC 11-04-2024 474 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #10 Meghna Sharma 475 ACC 11-04-2024 475 of 554 MEGHNA SHARMA  Artist Statement  I am deeply inspired by brief moments in time—those ordinary glimpses of daily life that, though  often unnoticed, brim with profound beauty and emotional resonance. I feel that every human face  tells a complex story awaiting interpretation and through my paintings I try to bring people and their  stories to life.  My creative process involves a deep introspection and dialogue with the external  world, guiding me to focus on those mundane moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. Through  my portraits, I encourage viewers to appreciate the beauty and poetry in every moment.  Affiliations & Activities  •Member of San Francisco Women Artists (SFWA) gallery •Member of The Portrait Society of  America •Member of The Pacific Art League (PAL)•Participating Artist in Silicon Valley Open Studios  Past Shows and Exhibitions  • The DeYoung Open 2023, The DeYoung Museum, San Francisco  • Silicon Valley Open Studios Preview Show March 30 ‐ April 28 2024, CSMA, The Mohr  Gallery, Mountain View  • Various Shows At San Francisco Women Artists gallery (SFWA), San Francisco. Received  Juror’s choice award at several exhibitions.  • Silicon Valley Open Studios (SVOS) 2024  • Selected for the City of Sunnyvale’s Exhibit Program 2024 and exhibited at the Sunnyvale  Senior Centre July 10 to August 21 2024.  • Exhibited at Gallery House, Palo Alto from Feb 2023 to Feb 2024  • Exhibited at Cupertino Library Exhibition  • Painting titled “Coffee” presented as a poster at the 10th Annual Narrative Medicine  Conference: The healing power of stories, 20th September 2024, Advocate Lutheran General  Hospital, IL  • Selected for the South Asian Literature and Art festival (SALA) with upcoming exhibition  September 28 – 29, 2024 at Stanford University.  Recognitions and Publications  • Arts to Hearts Project: Selected as one of the 100 Emerging Women Artists. Featured in the  2024 print magazine issue  • Create! Magazine: Work featured in the issue #46  • Artist Talk Magazine: Work featured in the Issue #33    Instagram account https://instagram.com/artbymeghnasharma  476 ACC 11-04-2024 476 of 554 Cupertino Change Agents 10960 Northsky Square Cupertino, CA 95014 669 251 4702 cupertinochangeagents.org September 26th, 2024 To: The Cupertino Arts and Culture Commission RE: The Emerging Artist Award for Meghna Sharma I am writing to highly recommend Meghna Sharma, an exceptionally talented and dedicated artist, for this award. I've had the pleasure of knowing and working with Meghna for over a year. Throughout this time, I've consistently been impressed with her artistic skills, professionalism, and passion for her art. Meghna has organized and assisted in several art workshops for the young artists of the Cupertino Change Agents over the past year. Meghna possesses an exceptional talent for capturing emotions and telling stories through her artwork. Her distinctive style and meticulous attention to detail make her creations both thought-provoking and visually captivating. Meghna's remarkable art has been featured in several popular art journals over the past year. Meghna was one of the participating artists in Silicon Valley Open Studios. The community had the privilege of visiting her magnificent art studio and viewing her artworks. Beyond her artistic talents, Meghna is a pleasure to collaborate with. She welcomes feedback and consistently approaches projects with a positive attitude, making her a valuable asset in group work due to her strong communication skills. I am confident that Meghna will continue to achieve great things in their artistic career. She has my highest recommendation. Sincerely, Sikta Khastagir Founder & President Cupertino Change Agents President CupertinoChangeAgents 477 ACC 11-04-2024 477 of 554 478 ACC 11-04-2024 478 of 554 479 ACC 11-04-2024 479 of 554 480 ACC 11-04-2024 480 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #11 Nicole Cheong 481 ACC 11-04-2024 481 of 554 Nicole Cheong - Personal Statement My name is Nicole Cheong, and I’m an artist and a junior at Basis Independent Silicon Valley. I have been doing art for about 10 years. Art is an outlet for my expression and I value the way it enables me to reflect on my emotions and connect with others. My work focuses on the connection between fantasy and reality. In addition, I volunteer with students with special needs and am always looking for ways to connect with my community via art. Experimenting with different mediums and materials like acrylic paint, books, and origami,I explored how the worlds of fantasy and reality are initially separated and how fantasy is used as a method of escapism, but as time passes, the fantasy world merges into reality, providing us new perspectives. This relates to how as a child, I used to read as a way to block out the difficulties of reality, but I now apply what I read in fantasy to my life, changing how I see the world. I break my work down into four stages, separation, blending of fantasy and reality, rebirth,and integration, following a narrative that continues as a thread through my work. The first stage of my artworks is separation, which I portray through a clear divide between colors and materials. For the second stage, which is the blending of fantasy versus reality, there is still a clear divide, but it is less prominent. I combine fantasy creatures and everyday items to show the blending of the two worlds. For the rebirth stage, to show the idea of change, I represent the illusions in water and mirage of the desert. For the last stage of complete integration, I explored utilizing new materials and sculptural forms of reusing books, reflecting on the entire process of emergence back to reality with new perspectives inspired by fantasy. Through my work, I hope that others can relate their own experiences to it and see the world through my eyes. For my artwork regarding sustainability, I drew what a future would be like, but from an optimistic point of view. Despite the destruction Earth has faced, communities still remain sustainable through the strength of the communities. Underground, the networks strengthen communication and collaboration, which fuel the rebirth and rebuilding of Earth as shown by the flowers growing amidst the destruction. Whenever I have free time, I enjoy broadening my world view through art. I joined the art club in my school in order to collaborate with others and learn about how art has influenced them and impacted their perspectives. Inspired by the people and environment around me, I hope to create work that others can relate to and find connections through art. Not only that, but I aim to inspire others through art. I have taken what I have learned and given back to my community. The summer of 2024, I constructed a plan and was able to create an arts and crafts class in Friends of Children with Special Needs. I made sure to include a variety of mediums and materials for the children to explore. I deeply value connecting to others through art. Sharing my artworks with the community, I was recognized by the Contemporary Asian Theater Scene (CATS) board, being a top 6 finalist of the Dr. Jerry Hiura Inspiration Award in 2023. I was so excited to share my experiences being raised in an Asian household. I hope to inspire others to share their own experiences through art in order to cultivate a diverse community in Cupertino fueled by many powerful voices, generating more conversations around global issues and shared experiences. 482 ACC 11-04-2024 482 of 554 NicoleCheong EnthusiasticArtist,CommunityBuilder,Dancer Hi,mynameisNicoleandI’majuniorinhighschoolwho’spassionateabout communitybuildingandconnectingwithstudentswithspecialneeds.Imake visualartaboutfantasy. Volunteering Experience June2024-August2024 Hongyun Art Foundation, Cupertino, CA - Camp Leader ●Workedwithstudentsforthreeweeks(totalof96 hours)focusingonhelpingstudents formconnections,learnsubjectmaterial,andconnecttoeachstudentonanindividuallevel. June2024-Present Friends of Children With Special Needs - Volunteer Teacher ●SetupacoordinatedgroupconnectingvolunteersfromHongyunArtFoundation ●Organizingclasstimes June2024-Present Friends of Children With Special Needs - Volunteer ●WorkedwithstudentsforSocialPlayGroupwheretheylearnedskillslikeconversational andlisteningskillsthatwillhelpthemintheirdailylives ●Volunteeredfordanceandartclasseswiththestudents ●Volunteeredat DisabilityResourcesFair(2024)-workedatbraceletmakingstation) Education Basis Independent Silicon Valley - High School Diploma, expected graduation 2026 SelectedArtCoursework:AP2DArtandDesign(2024-2025) Awards Art ScholasticArtandWriting-HonorableMention(2022) Dr.JerryHiuraInspirationAwardthroughtheContemporaryAsianTheaterScene-Top6 Award (2023) Dr.JerryHiuraInspirationAwardthroughtheContemporaryAsianTheaterScene-SilverAward (2024) 483 ACC 11-04-2024 483 of 554 2 Dance MonsterRegionalsdancecompetition-2ndplaceLineHipHop(2024) SpotlightDanceCup(Regionals)-1stPlaceNoviceLargeGroup&Line(2024) 484 ACC 11-04-2024 484 of 554 485 ACC 11-04-2024 485 of 554 486 ACC 11-04-2024 486 of 554 487 ACC 11-04-2024 487 of 554 488 ACC 11-04-2024 488 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #12 Nirali Patel 489 ACC 11-04-2024 489 of 554 My name is Nirali Patel, and I have been living in Cupertino since relocating with my family from Seattle in 2019. I am an emerging artist with a passion for exploring diverse artistic mediums, including acrylic on canvas, oils, and watercolors. I am excited to submit my entry for the Emerging Artist Award Competition, which resonates with my artistic vision of pushing creative boundaries and sharing meaningful expressions through art. My journey as an artist began in my childhood, deeply influenced by my cultural roots. One of my earliest memories is visiting temples in India with my mother, where I was captivated by the rich artistry displayed in these sacred spaces. I vividly recall watching an artist paint gods and goddesses on temple walls during a renovation in my town. Intrigued, I approached him to ask if he would teach me, and to my delight, he agreed. Although my lessons were brief, as he was a visiting artist, they ignited a passion that has remained with me. From that point forward, I explored art in every form available. Whether it was creating rangoli, intricate henna designs, or painting on surfaces like clothing, trees, streets, or even my home’s walls, I immersed myself in artistic expression. One memorable instance was creating a seven-foot crayon mural on my bedroom wall. Although my father was initially upset, he quickly appreciated the dedication I brought to my art. Over the years, I have won various competitions, including school-level and district-level art contests. When I was 12 years old, my work was selected for a national-level art competition, where I received the Sanskriti Puraskar for depicting Gandhiji leading the Satyagraha during India’s independence movement. This piece was exhibited in Hyderabad at the India Young Envoys, a proud moment in my life. After moving to the U.S. and establishing my career as a software engineer, I rediscovered painting during the long, isolating winters in Chicago. Being away from family in a new city with few friends, art became a source of comfort and expression. I began creating paintings and sold them on Facebook, donating the proceeds to St. Jude's Hospital. I completed my last painting in 2016 before picking it up again in 2023. I’d say that my daily walks around the neighborhood have inspired me to pick up the brush and start painting on canvas again. Much of my art is inspired by nature and spirituality. Since moving to Cupertino, I’ve found new inspiration in the vibrant colors and serene beauty of my neighborhood. Flowers have become a recurring motif in my work, symbolizing growth, change, and the simple joys of life. Through my art, I aim to evoke a sense of peace and harmony, inviting viewers to connect with the beauty of nature and the spiritual essence that surrounds us. My submission for this competition, titled Bloom Every Day, embodies these themes. The flowers in my artwork serve as a metaphor for personal growth and transformation, reminding us to embrace each day with a spirit of renewal and positivity. Flowers not only enhance our lives aesthetically, but they also hold practical value—whether in cooking, medicine, or as fragrant memories. My goal is for viewers to reflect on how the beauty and utility of nature contribute to a sustainable and fulfilling life. Participating in this competition is a valuable opportunity to share my work within a community that values artistic expression and sustainability. Being recognized in this competition would be an important milestone in my artistic journey, providing me with exposure and opportunities to exhibit my work in neighborhood art shows. I am honored to submit my work for consideration in the Emerging Artist Award Competition. I believe my artistic perspective, dedication, and passion make me a strong candidate. Thank you for your time and consideration. 490 ACC 11-04-2024 490 of 554 LeƩer of Endorsement for Nirali Patel   To  Whom It May Concern,    I am wriƟng this leƩer to wholeheartedly endorse my dear friend, Nirali Patel, as a candidate for the  Emerging ArƟst Award. I have had the privilege of knowing Nirali for several years, and during that Ɵme,  I’ve witnessed her passion for art grow into a profound form of personal expression.    Nirali’s journey as an arƟst is deeply inspiring. From an early age, she embraced arƟsƟc exploraƟon,  finding beauty in everything around her. Over Ɵme, this creaƟve spark has only deepened. Her work is  not only technically skillful but also incredibly meaningful, drawing inspiraƟon from her cultural roots,  nature, and spirituality. As she oŌen shares, her arƟsƟc journey began with a childhood curiosity  nurtured by her visits to Indian temples. This exposure to sacred art forms has since shaped her unique  arƟsƟc voice.    AŌer pursuing a career as a soŌware engineer in the U.S., Nirali took a break from painƟng, but her  passion for art was reignited during a parƟcularly challenging Ɵme in her life. During the harsh winters in  Chicago, when she found herself in a new city, away from family and friends, she turned back to her art  for comfort. It was then that she began creaƟng and selling her painƟngs to raise money for St. Jude’s  Hospital, a testament to her generosity and commitment to using her talent for a greater cause.    Nirali’s recent return to painƟng in 2023 has been nothing short of remarkable. Her work is now heavily  inspired by her daily walks through her CuperƟno neighborhood, where she draws on the vibrant colors  and calming energy of the environment. Her pieces oŌen feature moƟfs of flowers, symbolizing growth  and renewal—concepts that Nirali herself embodies in both her art and her life.    What sets Nirali apart is not only her talent but her desire to create art that connects deeply with others.  Her current piece, Bloom Every Day, beauƟfully captures the cycle of growth, transformaƟon, and the joy  found in life’s simple moments. Through her art, Nirali invites viewers to pause, reflect, and appreciate  the beauty around them.    I have no doubt that Nirali’s arƟsƟc talent, dedicaƟon, and passion make her a strong candidate for this  award. She is a deeply thoughƞul arƟst who conƟnues to push her creaƟve boundaries, and her  contribuƟons to the art community will undoubtedly be impacƞul.    It is with the utmost enthusiasm that I recommend Nirali Patel for the Emerging ArƟst Award. She is a  true arƟst in every sense, and I am confident that this recogniƟon will enable her to conƟnue to grow  and inspire others through her incredible work.    Sincerely,  Vinotha Sundaram  Friend turned Family       491 ACC 11-04-2024 491 of 554 492 ACC 11-04-2024 492 of 554 493 ACC 11-04-2024 493 of 554 494 ACC 11-04-2024 494 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #13 Saarth Ranka 495 ACC 11-04-2024 495 of 554 Personal Statement for The Emerging Artist Award Hello, my name is Saarth Ranka, and I am 12 years old. I am currently in the 7th grade and have been learning the tabla for the past six years under the guidance of my Guru, Shri Satishji Tare, at Tabla Niketan. Playing the tabla has become a very important part of my life, and it has taught me so much about rhythm, dedication, and the joy of sharing music with others. My parents are immigrants, and no one in my family has a background in music. But my dad always wanted me to learn the tabla so that I could stay connected to our roots and serve the community. I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity, and I’m grateful that he introduced me to this beautiful instrument. When I first started learning, I didn’t realize how much the tabla would mean to me. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to perform with local and visiting artists at different community events and religious ceremonies. These experiences have shown me how powerful music can be in bringing people together. Whenever I play, I see how the beats of the tabla create a sense of unity and joy among those who are listening. It’s an amazing feeling to know that I can contribute to my community by sharing my music. The theme of this year’s award, "Building Sustainable Community," resonates with me because I believe music is a big part of how we stay connected. When I play the tabla, I see people smile, clap, and even sing along. It makes me happy to create these special moments, and I want to keep growing as a tabla artist to share this joy with more people. I am excited to apply for The Emerging Artist Award because it supports younger artists like me, and even those who are finding their love for art again later in life. I hope to keep growing with the tabla, and maybe one day, I can inspire others to start playing music or reconnect with it, no matter how old they are. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, Saarth S. Ranka 496 ACC 11-04-2024 496 of 554 Saarth Ranka - Resume and Exhibition Record Saarth S. Ranka ,Cupertino, CA 95014 Age: 12 | Grade: 7 At Lawson Middle School Tabla Student under Shri Satishji Tare at Tabla Niketan,Cupertino Education and Training ●Learning tabla since age 6 under the guidance of Shri Satishji Tare at Tabla Niketan ●Attending regular classes, practice sessions, and workshops to improve skills ●On the learning path of completing Sangeet Visarad, completed Praveshika Poorna, and will be appearing for Madhyama Pratham ●Part of School Orchestra at Lawson Middle School, Cupertino. Performances and Experiences ●Performed at multiple community events, including religious ceremonies, cultural celebrations, and school functions ●Accompanied both local and visiting artists during performances, gaining experience in collaborative music-making Achievements ●Awarded the Most Promising Young Artist by Jain Got Talent, an international competition 2021 ●Invited to perform at religious and cultural events as a tabla accompanist ●Selected to accompany professional artists at community events ●Facilitated by Jain Center Of Northern California. Skills ●Ability to play various tabla compositions (kaidas, relas, tukras, etc.) ●Strong sense of rhythm and ability to accompany different types of music Exhibition Record 2024 ●Performed at JCNC for Jain Digambar Das Laxna Program. ●Accompanied visiting artist Shri Dr Kumar Chatterjee, Sangeet Pravin at Krishan Janam, at Milpitas , California. ●Performed at the Bay Area Vaishnav Parivar, San Jose, CA ●Accompanied local artists at various Spiritual singing, Various Location in Bay Area ● 2023 ●Solo performance at the MIBA Diwali Community Event, Sunnyvale, California. ●Accompanied local artists at various Spiritual singing, Various Location in Bay Area 497 ACC 11-04-2024 497 of 554 2022 ●Performed at Annual Cultural Event, organized by Tabla Niketan, Cupertino ●Accompanied Vocalist at the Annual Jain Community Gathering. ●Solo Tabla Performance at Diwali Cultural Celebration for JCIG, Cupertino Ongoing ●Regular performances at religious ceremonies and community events at Jain Center Of Northern California, Milpitas, CA ●Accompanying local and Visitingartists at various Spiritual singing, Various Location in Bay Area Performance Links : ●Various Performances ○https://photos.app.goo.gl/eW3rhag3MbJg5mDF8 ●Most Promising Young Artist, Jain Got Talent 2021 ○https://youtu.be/7MkLg5sToBg?si=bkwaVAst3g3QU6bi 498 ACC 11-04-2024 498 of 554 499 ACC 11-04-2024 499 of 554 Saarth Ranka Performing Artist Submission Google Photos Link: https://photos.app.goo.gl/eW3r hag3MbJg5mDF8 Please copy and paste URL into web browser. 500 ACC 11-04-2024 500 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #14 Sarah Wang 501 ACC 11-04-2024 501 of 554 Personal Statement Sarah Wang Art has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. At 16 years old, I have spent over a decade exploring different forms of expression through drawing, which has become both a passion and a meaningful way to connect with myself and others. I began studying art at Happy Valley Art School under Ms. Yinghua (Sarah) Wang when I was just five. Since then, art has grown into something much more than a hobby—it has become my language, my therapy, and my way of understanding the world. Art offers me a unique way to process my emotions. When I’m sad or stressed, I turn to drawing. Earlier this year, I experienced a personal loss when my beloved bird passed away. It was a difficult time, but drawing countless portraits of her helped me grieve and eventually brought me peace. These drawings became a tribute to her and a testament to how art can transform sorrow into something beautiful. Beyond personal expression, I use my art to give back to my community and school. As an active member of my school’s art club, I help with holiday decorations and create drawings for school spirit activities. I’ve done face paintings for children during holiday events, donated drawings for fundraisers, handmade holiday cards for seniors, and taught art classes to young children after school. Last year, I created a digital art piece, “Call 988 for Suicide Prevention,” to help advertise the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, raising awareness among teens. I’ve also used art to support causes like endangered species protection, ocean pollution awareness, and community sustainability, with several pieces earning recognition. Art allows me to communicate and connect with others. My overseas relatives often send me pictures, and I turn them into humorous memes with witty dialogues. For my sister’s 12th birthday, I spent six months painting a portrait of her and handmade 12 stickers that represented her hobbies and characteristics. To me, art is a universal love language that transcends time and distance. Art has also been a way to build friendships. In school, I created digital drawings of memorable class moments, animated-style portraits of classmates, and inside-joke symbols that only my peers would understand. These projects remind me that art captures memories and brings people closer together. As I move forward, I am eager to continue developing my skills and growing as an artist. I want to explore new techniques, push boundaries, and contribute my voice to the art community. Entering this competition is an important step toward realizing my dream of becoming an emerging artist. Art is my passion, and I look forward to sharing it with the world. 502 ACC 11-04-2024 502 of 554 Sarah Wang Contact Information Email: Phone: Location: Cupertino, CA Resume Objective Aspiring emerging artist with over a decade of experience in drawing and painting. Passionate about self-expression through art, contributing to the community, and creating work that connects with people on a deeper level. Education High School— The Harker School, San Jose, CA Expected Graduation: 2027 Relevant Coursework: AP 2-D dawning and design, Chinese traditional drawing, watercolor, oil painting, digital drawing Artistic Experience Community Art Projects 2023-Present • Face paintings for children at community events. • Donated original drawings for fundraising events. • Hand-made holiday cards for seniors to spread joy and connection. • Taught after-school art classes to young children including children with disabilities, introducing them to drawing techniques and fostering creativity. School Art Club Member 2020-Present • Created holiday decorations and participated in school spirit activities through drawing and painting. 503 ACC 11-04-2024 503 of 554 • Collaborated with peers to enhance the school environment through various artistic contributions. Skills • Proflcient in traditional and digital drawing techniques. • Expertise in Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, and other digital drawing software. • Strong creativity, attention to detail, and adaptability. • Excellent communication skills and ability to connect with various age groups through art. • Collaborative team player with experience in community-driven projects. Awards & Exhibition Record • The Harker School Book Blog’s FanArt Contest 4th place, 2024 • Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Gold Key “Call 988 for Suicide Prevention, digital art”, 2023 • Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Silver Key “Muse’s Song, painting”, 2023 • Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Honorable Mention “Blooming, painting”, 2023 • PAL’s PALS Youth Art Competition Best of Show Award “Yeaning for Yesterday, watercolor”, 2023 • Endangered Species Day Youth Art Contest Semi-flnal List “Bee, watercolor”,2021 • 99 Ranch Market Children’s Drawing Contest Outstanding Prize “Earth Mother, watercolor”, 2021 • Dublin/San Ramon Women’s Club Student Art & Photography Contest 2nd place, “Flower, Chinese traditional”, 2020 • Mountain Diablo District Women’s Club Student Art & Photography Contest 2nd place, “Butterfiy, Chinese traditional”, 2020 504 ACC 11-04-2024 504 of 554 Hello, It is my pleasure to support Sarah Wang to attend the Cupertino Emerging Artist Award. During my time with Sarah, I have been impressed with her talents and accomplishments. I had Sarah as a student in my art school since she was in Grade 1. She has proven herself to be creative, resourceful, and very self-motivated in art. She also actively serves the local community with her expertise in arts and crafts. Sarah spends 2-4 hours per week in my studio learning fundamental drawing and painting techniques. She practices hard in observing and drawing a variety of subjects, including still life, flowers, figures, animals, and so forth. Since two years ago, she has spent more time creating her own projects and exploring a variety of media to better express herself. I am very impressed by the time and effort she put into art and her eagerness to create in her spare time. For example, she wants to create an artwork as a birthday gift for her little sister. She did visual research on different art styles, found visual inspirations and resources, and drafted several sketches before we decided on the final design. She spent two months working on an oil painting depicting her sister doing her favorite crafts and collaged hand-made stickers about all the things her sister likes over the oil painting. The final artwork expresses her love for her sister and a warm tone of her sister’s personality. I enjoyed guiding her throughout the creation process and the final artwork looks amazing. Sarah is capable of creating in a variety of media, including traditional media such as oil painting, watercolor, color pencils, and graphite pencils. She is also proficient in digital painting using Adobe Photoshop and Procreate. Her artwork expresses a strong meaning and is visually appealing. She is an insightful, sensitive, and deeply self-aware individual driven to explore art and a deeper understanding of the human condition. When not involved in the aforementioned creative endeavors, Sarah volunteers her time to community services and uses her art expertise to serve the local community. As the mentor of the Lapis Lazuli Youth Art Inc. Sarah attends, I observe Sarah participating in various community service events, such as doing face painting to little children at local events, teaching children arts and crafts in the local afterschool programs, and so on. As her art teacher, I am impressed with both Sarah’s technical ability and motivation. Her creativity flows naturally. Sarah is an intuitive and talented artist without doubt. She is also a socially responsible artist who is eager to serve the community. In closing, I enthusiastically support Sarah Wang for the Emerging Artist Contest. Sincerely, Yinghua Wang 505 ACC 11-04-2024 505 of 554 506 ACC 11-04-2024 506 of 554 507 ACC 11-04-2024 507 of 554 508 ACC 11-04-2024 508 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #15 Suhani Nirwal 509 ACC 11-04-2024 509 of 554 Personal Statement: Suhani Nirwal Title of Work: Hope The inspiration behind this piece emerged from my surroundings. I live in a community in the Cupertino area, and as a result, have been to Target numerous times with my family. However, the atmosphere is quite off - putting for such an esteemed location. I remember quite vividly walking on the sidewalk and seeing a shabby rugged homeless old man slouching over a target grocery cart. Now there were multiple things that grew to haunt me about this encounter, but all I could think about was the helpless look on his face, waiting for someone to take him out of such a situation, just trying to hold on for a little longer. This piece was made in effort to capture that feeling to hopefully resonate with the audience. Life isn’t fair for every one of us, and this piece aims to capture the essence of such a harsh but inevitable reality. However, this piece also radiates hope, evident through the sign in the bottom right corner that reads “Will Work For Food”. This part of the piece aims to portray how people in such situations try and better their lives by doing absolutely anything they can. I believe that if we are able to come to such a mutual understanding by putting away our pride and ego, kindness will work to radiate throughout such a community where everyone feels welcomed and wanted. Sincerely, - Suhani N. 510 ACC 11-04-2024 510 of 554 Letter of Endorsement: Suhani Nirwal Hello, This letter was written to convey my support for Suhani Nirwal, an applicant in the City of Cupertino 2024 Emerging Artist Award Application. Relation to Artist: Mother My daughter has always had a persistent passion for the arts from a young age. Whether this be through art projects in school or doodling at home, her imagination flows out of the art pieces she generates. She is able to convey complex ideas and emotions without the use of words and instills a deep sense of thought into anyone who views her art pieces. I remember asking her about why she has such an evident passion in the arts, and as we started our conversation, she told me that the purpose of her art is to unite the world. She believes that art is a communication medium that surpasses all of the boundaries culture, religion, language, and political beliefs create in our surroundings. She hopes that people feel the need to set their personal wants aside as they come together for the benefit of the common good. Regardless of her future career, she aims to maintain her passion and further develop her technical skills for the arts throughout her high school, college, and adult life. I guarantee that this piece has been solely thought of and put into action by Suhani. Sincerely, - Neeru Malik Email: 511 ACC 11-04-2024 511 of 554 512 ACC 11-04-2024 512 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #16 Theresa Xu 513 ACC 11-04-2024 513 of 554 September 30th, 2024 Personal Statement To the Cupertino Arts and Culture Commission, My name is Theresa Xu, and I am currently 15 years old. Art is one of my main hobbies that I focus on outside academics. I have been drawing for around seven years now at Hongyun Art and find lots of joy in doing so. Art is a source of happiness and passion, and I hope to improve steadily, especially in my speed and coloring skills since they are still lacking. My main focus when drawing is animals and plants since those are two very fascinating and versatile topics. I enjoy drawing and coloring realistic pieces that show the complexity of the subject. I mostly use colored pencils and graphite for my drawings, but I do like to experiment and go outside of my comfort zone once in a while with acrylics, watercolor, and gouache. I take inspiration from my friends, family, teachers, and surroundings. For example, the parakeet on a cupcake gouache painting was inspired by someone extremely close to me. She had pet parakeets named Lemon, Blackberry, Oreo, and Blueberry, which are foods I added to the cupcake. For the shark piece, I was inspired by my art teacher, who was wearing a shark headband, and my older sister, who likes cherry blossoms. For the library piece, I was heavily inspired by the Cupertino Library and bees. Bees are one of the most helpful animals to the environment and the library is a place that brings many people together, so I drew a library for bees called Cuperbeeno Library where bees are saving their community. During class, I stay focused and on task with a few breaks every hour. While drawing, I like talking to my art-class-friends, since we are usually from different schools and grades. I also ask them for feedback because different people can have contrasting ideas, which can be especially useful when trying to appeal to the general public. Outside of my art class, I also volunteer for Hongyun Art in their TA Program, which allows students to receive volunteer hours weekly during the school year and daily during the summer. Students share their art skills and styles with younger students to help them improve. The children are extremely entertaining, and I feel extremely grateful to be able to help them with art. This TA program allowed me to gain over 100 hours of volunteer hours, which has given me the chance to get the Presidential Service Award and also learn more about teaching. I am a sophomore at Lynbrook High School, and I have been going there since freshman year. I take the mandatory classes of World History, World Literature, Science, and Math, and I chose to take Japanese and Band as my electives. For science, I took Physics Honors and for math, I took AP Calculus BC. I maintain a good overall grade, with mostly A’s. Overall, art is a huge part of my life, and I am willing to commit many hours to it every week to improve. Sincerely, Theresa Xu 514 ACC 11-04-2024 514 of 554 515 ACC 11-04-2024 515 of 554 516 ACC 11-04-2024 516 of 554 517 ACC 11-04-2024 517 of 554 518 ACC 11-04-2024 518 of 554 2024 Emerging Artist Submission #17 Yuyi He 519 ACC 11-04-2024 519 of 554 Yuyi’s Personal Statement Hello! My name is Yuyi and I moved to cupertino about 2 years ago after graduating from college. I am a software engineer who knew nothing about art until this year when my mother came and visited me from China. She taught me how to sew and knit and I quickly got into it so much that I bought a sewing machine at home and began to make my own “small projects”. Together we have made myself a jean skirt, a sofa cover and are in the process of making a knitted phone bag. It is nice to sit down and knit after a long stressful day of work, it is even nicer to have your beloved mother sitting next to you to knit together with you! 520 ACC 11-04-2024 520 of 554 Endorsement Yuyi's artwork RELATIONSHIP WITH ARTIST As Yuyi's boyfriend, I'm supporting my beautiful girlfriends' sustainable, innovative artwork. SUSTAINABILITY What would you do with the used disposable bowl, cup, and old clothes? Yuyi neither put them in the trash bin nor the recycling boxes! Instead, she converted them into useful stuff for daily life; this conversion absolutely contributed sustainability to the environment. From the hangable baskets to the comfortable cushion, we are also enjoying the convenience and the comfort they are bringing. INNOVATION For the used disposable cup and bowl, Yuyi is never satisfied with only washing them before using them as containers. She applied colorful strings, which not only strengthen the cup's and bowl's structure, and also aestheticize the surface. Finally they were transformed as the hangable baskets. We can hang them in many places as decorative containers. Do you usually utilize used clothes as rags or mops? I can't imagine Yuyi transforming it into a cushion! Leaning towards the soft cushion, we not only feel comfort but also sense our memory with the clothes. COURAGE Yuyi is just a beginner artist under her mom's supervision but she is so courageous to learn new things. Weaving the surface of the baskets requires lots of tricks to play with the strings. Using the sewing machines to make the cushion is also complex. She is never afraid of learning them, even if tools may sometimes hurt her fingers. I'm proud of you, courageous Yuyi! Xin Liu 521 ACC 11-04-2024 521 of 554 Yuyi’s Portfolio Item 1: Hand knit cup This hand knit cup was made from a used plastic cup. I used yarn to wrap around it and the character decorations around it were cut off from a McDonald happy meal container box. 522 ACC 11-04-2024 522 of 554 We use it as a pencil holder at home! 523 ACC 11-04-2024 523 of 554 Item 2: Hand knit bowl/basket This hand knit cup was made from a used paper cup. I used yarn to wrap around it and the bottom (red part) was also made from the same happy meal container box. 524 ACC 11-04-2024 524 of 554 This is what the paper cup looks like originally. 525 ACC 11-04-2024 525 of 554 This bowl is now our snack basket! 526 ACC 11-04-2024 526 of 554 Item 3: Seat cushion made from old clothes The stuffing inside the cushion is also made from stripped old clothes, the string on both sides are made from the hoodie strings. 527 ACC 11-04-2024 527 of 554 This is what the old hoodie used on the outside used to look like. Hope you liked my art! All of these items were once things that we considered throwing away, but ultimately we decided to keep them and turn them into something else, something useful and cute and give them a new life! 528 ACC 11-04-2024 528 of 554 2024 Distinguished Artist Submission #1 Eva Olsen 529 ACC 11-04-2024 529 of 554 Personal Statement - Eva Olsen My name is Eva Olsen, and I’m a visual artist and educator based in Cupertino, California. My recent work addresses themes of growth, desire, and experiences in shared landscapes. Living in the South Bay, I am deeply influenced by the local culture and environment, and I am committed to the artistic scene in Cupertino. I am a good fit for consideration as a Distinguished Artist based on my work experience focusing on Cupertino, education in the arts, previous exhibition experience and community engagements, and my future goals as an artist. For the past five years, I have worked as an art teacher, volunteer coordinator, and manager at Hongyun Art Studio in Cupertino. This role has allowed me to connect with fellow artists and students who are on their own artistic journeys. Constantly engaging with students’ and their art development brings me joy and inspiration. I’m proud that many of my students continue to engage with art initiatives, seek exhibition opportunities, volunteer in many different capacities, and become strong leaders in high school and beyond. My recent work focuses on growth and engagement with both built and natural landscapes. I often use vibrant colors as a nod to digital culture. Experimentation is essential in my practice; each piece responds to the previous one and contributes to the overall body of work. I often gain clarity on my art making by being in nature and through conversations with my peers. I consider myself a lifelong learner and prioritize all forms of learning, having earned a BFA in Studio Art from Cal Poly SLO in 2021. In 2023, I obtained an advanced certificate in Mandarin Language and Culture from De Anza College and continue to explore new ways to learn. Eventually one of my goals is to further my education in gaining a MFA in art or design, and teach at a university level, or obtain a single subject teaching credential. I am also involved with the local art community through various galleries and organizations. This year, I was selected to exhibit at the New Museum of Los Gatos as part of their 4th Annual Experimental Exhibition with GenArtsSV, as well as with Art Builds Community for Lunar X. In 2022, I was honored to receive a silver level Distinguished Artist in Cupertino and it was a transformative experience to be able to display my work in the library alongside other talented artists, community leaders, teachers from all paths of life. I am honored to have the opportunity to apply for this award, and deeply appreciate the time taken to read my application. If selected, I intend to use the recognition from the award to create community engagements meaningfully and further my education. Please don’t hesitate to contact me at if you’d like to discuss my candidacy further. Sincerely, Eva Olsen 530 ACC 11-04-2024 530 of 554 Eva Olsen Visual Artist, Art Teacher Cupertino, CA https://evaolsenart.com/ Eva Olsen (b.1994) is a visual artist living in the Bay Area, California, making work about growth, desire, and experiencing our shared landscapes. EDUCATION 2021 BFA - Art and Design — California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA SELECTED GROUP EXHIBITIONS 2024 Boundaries - 4th Annual Experimental Exhibition at New Museum Los Gatos, Los Gatos, CA Lunar 2024 - School of Arts and Culture at MHP, San Jose, CA Lunar 2024 - Tea Lyfe, San Jose, CA 2023 Let’s Get Goated, Irreverent Art Gallery, Daly City, CA Cupertino Distinguished Art Award Exhibition, Cupertino Library, Cupertino, CA 2019 What The Wall Said, BFA Graduation Show, University Art Gallery, San Luis Obispo, CA Juried Student Exhibition, University Art Gallery, San Luis Obispo, CA AIGA x Pushpin Student Exhibition, Building 34, Art and Design Dept. San Luis Obispo, CA 2017 Concept Creation, Art Central, San Luis Obispo, CA EXPERIENCE Studio Manager, Lead Art Instructor - Hongyun Art Studio, Cupertino, CA Oct 2021 - Present Core Art Instructor - Hongyun Art Studio, Cupertino, CA + Remote Oct 2019 - Oct 2021 AWARDS 2023 DeAnza College - Certificate of Achievement, Advanced 2023 —- Mandarin Language and Culture 2022 Cupertino Distinguished Artist Award — Silver 2022 Scholastic Art and Writing - Educator Award 2017 Walt Disney Imagineering WDI Imaginations Competition — Semifinalist 2017 CGSpectrum College of Digital Art and Animation — Scholarship Recipient 531 ACC 11-04-2024 531 of 554 September 30th, 2024 For the Cupertino Artist Award Program, My name is Jason Rose and I have known Eva Olsen for approximately four years. As a professional artist myself, I have many artistic peers in my life of various caliber. Amongst the amazingly creative, delightfully disruptive, and insane artists I know, I can honestly say that Eva ranks among the top echelon when it comes to passion and technical skill. As a prideful individual myself, I say this with all seriousness. Eva’s ability to come up with a strong theme, layout, sketch and render within actual MINUTES always confound and impresses me to an almost embarrassing degree. Eva and I both teach classes together at Hongyun Art in Cupertino by DeAnza College. We both teach, as well as manage the day to day school operations with a handful of other local artists. Eva’s dedication to her students and ability to not only build up their technical skills, but also actually help them build upon their artist spirit is always inspiring to me. Not only are Eva’s technical skills the best I’ve ever seen. Not only does her commitment to her students growth astound. What’s more is she is deeply committed to community building and building connections through art. As long as I’ve known her, she is always talking about the new local artist events, competitions and exhibits. She alone has convinced so many of her students and peers to participate in events such as this very competition; myself included. To wrap this up, Eva is an amazing artist, a great teacher and a major proponent of building positive community through art. For these reasons, I believe she is more than deserving of consideration for this award. If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out to me directly by emailing me at or texting me at . I’m more than willing to talk. Sincerely, Jason Rose Full Time Artist 532 ACC 11-04-2024 532 of 554 533 ACC 11-04-2024 533 of 554 534 ACC 11-04-2024 534 of 554 535 ACC 11-04-2024 535 of 554 2024 Distinguished Artist Submission #2 Hyungki Kim 536 ACC 11-04-2024 536 of 554 Person statement At some point, I think I deeply realized that there was no clean, empty space in this world where I could express myself. As I lived my life, performing various tasks, sometimes when I was thrown into a certain place, drawing became some kind of space for me. And so, drawing became the canvas on which I could begin to depict something as my own. 537 ACC 11-04-2024 537 of 554 538 ACC 11-04-2024 538 of 554 **Kim, Hyungki** - 1984: Exhibited at the Grand Art Exhibition of Korea, selected for the Seoul International Art Exhibition. - 1985: Selected for the Central Art Exhibition. - 1986-1989: Participated in over 20 group exhibitions. - 1986: Participated in the 1st Sculpture Exhibition (Exhibition Hall at Yeongdeungpo Station). - 1987: Featured on KBS Radio for a 3-hour, 50-minute special introducing his installation work. - 1988: Held a memorial exhibition at Busan's Olympic Park and the Busan Cultural Center. - 1989: Held a special exhibition at the 2nd Sculpture Exhibition and was introduced in a 50-minute special on MBC Radio's "Our Culture" program. - 1991: Selected for the 34th National Art Exhibition and participated in the "Memory as Art" commemorative special exhibition. - 1995-1997: Participated in book illustration and other art projects for city libraries and museums. - 1995-2010: Various themes such as *Travel*, *Death*, *Labor* were featured in works exploring human history, culture, and the flow of artistic traditions. - 2011-present: Member of the Korean Sculpture Association, serving on the planning committee for Pyeongtaek Sculpture Garden. 539 ACC 11-04-2024 539 of 554 Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing this letter to recommend my father, who has dedicated nearly 40 years of his life to being an artist in Korea, participating in various artistic activities including contemporary art and performance. Despite facing many challenges throughout his career, he has always persevered and remained committed to his craft. Over the years, I have had the unique privilege of observing his unwavering love and dedication to art. His passion for creating meaningful and thought-provoking works, regardless of the difficulties he encountered, is truly admirable. My father’s ability to continuously produce art, stay innovative, and maintain his relevance in the evolving art world is a testament to his deep connection with his work. As he begins a new chapter in his life in the community of Cupertino, I want to take this moment to celebrate his journey and express my heartfelt support. Starting anew in a different environment is both an exciting and challenging endeavor, but I have no doubt that his passion and resilience will continue to guide him. I’m confident that he will thrive in this next phase, bringing his unique vision and creative energy to this new community, just as he has done throughout his career. Witnessing his commitment has been an inspiring experience for me. He has not only contributed significantly to the art community but also demonstrated the importance of perseverance and passion in pursuing one’s dreams. His works have left a lasting impact on those who have seen them, and I believe his ongoing contributions will continue to do so. I deeply respect my father’s dedication to art and his resilience over the years. I wholeheartedly recommend him for any opportunity that allows him to continue sharing his incredible artistic vision with the world. I also wish him the very best as he embarks on this exciting new chapter in Cupertino, where I’m certain his presence will enrich the community. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Songyi Kim October 01, 2024 540 ACC 11-04-2024 540 of 554 541 ACC 11-04-2024 541 of 554 542 ACC 11-04-2024 542 of 554 543 ACC 11-04-2024 543 of 554 2024 Distinguished Artist Submission #3 Jason Rose 544 ACC 11-04-2024 544 of 554 Personal Statement Sustainability and community are two concepts that go hand in hand. Sustainable communities include social services, parks and recreation, friendly and diverse public spaces. Sustainable energy sources and clean modes of travel are essential. These themes are what I was considering when creating my submission piece for this contest. The expression on the protagonist’s face represents simple joy. The piece is meant to be a snapshot of a moment representing various benefits of social services essential to sustainable community building. 545 ACC 11-04-2024 545 of 554 546 ACC 11-04-2024 546 of 554 547 ACC 11-04-2024 547 of 554 548 ACC 11-04-2024 548 of 554 549 ACC 11-04-2024 549 of 554 550 ACC 11-04-2024 550 of 554 2024 Distinguished Artist Submission #4 Nirali Patel 551 ACC 11-04-2024 551 of 554 My name is Nirali Patel, and I have been living in Cupertino since relocating with my family from Seattle in 2019. I am an emerging artist passionate about exploring diverse mediums such as acrylic on canvas, oils, and watercolors. I am honored to submit my entry for the Distinguished Artist Award Competition, which aligns with my vision of pushing creative boundaries and sharing meaningful expressions through art. My artistic journey began in childhood, deeply influenced by my cultural roots. One of my earliest memories is visiting temples in India with my mother, captivated by the artistry in these sacred spaces. A visiting artist painting gods and goddesses on temple walls sparked my lifelong passion for art. From creating rangoli and henna designs to painting on walls and trees, I immersed myself in art. A memorable moment was creating a seven-foot crayon mural in my bedroom, which, despite initial disapproval, won my father’s appreciation. Over the years, I have won various art competitions, including the “Sanskriti Puraskar” at age 12 for my depiction of Gandhiji leading the Satyagraha during India’s independence. This piece was exhibited at National level Exhibitions - India Young Envoys in Hyderabad. After moving to the U.S. and establishing my career as a software engineer, I rediscovered painting during the isolating winters in Chicago. I also sold few paintings on Facebook, donating all the proceeds to St. Jude’s Hospital. After a hiatus, I resumed painting in 2023. Art has the power to inspire change and foster connections within our communities. My Painting, “Grace of the Eternal Lord”, embodies this philosophy by intertwining the themes of spirituality and sustainability. This artwork represents not only my cultural heritage but also my commitment to building a sustainable community through shared values and mutual respect. In this piece, the figure of “Shrinathji” stands as a beacon of love and compassion, surrounded by elements of nature that symbolize the interconnectedness of all living beings. The peacocks and cows are not merely decorative; they remind us of the importance of harmony within our ecosystems. By portraying these animals alongside “Shrinathji”, I seek to illustrate how reverence for the divine extends to our respect for nature and its creatures, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices that honor our environment. The vibrant colors and intricate details in the painting reflect the beauty and diversity of life, while the lotus flowers at the base symbolize growth and renewal. Just as the lotus rises from the mud to bloom in the sunlight, our communities can thrive when we nurture our connections with one another and our environment. This artwork serves as a reminder that sustainability is not just an environmental concern; it is a holistic approach that encompasses social, economic, and spiritual dimensions. Through "Grace of the Eternal Lord," I aim to spark conversations about the importance of community engagement in sustainability efforts. Art has the unique ability to bring people together, and I hope this piece will inspire viewers to reflect on their roles within their communities and encourage them to adopt practices that contribute to a more sustainable and harmonious world. I also aspire to foster a sense of collective responsibility and inspire action toward a brighter, more sustainable future for all. Participating in this competition is a valuable opportunity to share my work within a community that values artistic expression and sustainability. Being recognized in this competition would be an important milestone in my artistic journey, providing me with exposure and opportunities to exhibit my work in neighborhood art shows. I am honored to submit my work for consideration in the Distinguished Artist Award Competition. I believe my artistic perspective, dedication, and passion make me a strong candidate. Thank you for your time and consideration. 552 ACC 11-04-2024 552 of 554 LeƩer of Endorsement for Nirali Patel   To  Whom It May Concern,    I am wriƟng this leƩer to wholeheartedly endorse my dear friend, Nirali Patel, as a candidate for the  Emerging ArƟst Award. I have had the privilege of knowing Nirali for several years, and during that Ɵme,  I’ve witnessed her passion for art grow into a profound form of personal expression.    Nirali’s journey as an arƟst is deeply inspiring. From an early age, she embraced arƟsƟc exploraƟon,  finding beauty in everything around her. Over Ɵme, this creaƟve spark has only deepened. Her work is  not only technically skillful but also incredibly meaningful, drawing inspiraƟon from her cultural roots,  nature, and spirituality. As she oŌen shares, her arƟsƟc journey began with a childhood curiosity  nurtured by her visits to Indian temples. This exposure to sacred art forms has since shaped her unique  arƟsƟc voice.    AŌer pursuing a career as a soŌware engineer in the U.S., Nirali took a break from painƟng, but her  passion for art was reignited during a parƟcularly challenging Ɵme in her life. During the harsh winters in  Chicago, when she found herself in a new city, away from family and friends, she turned back to her art  for comfort. It was then that she began creaƟng and selling her painƟngs to raise money for St. Jude’s  Hospital, a testament to her generosity and commitment to using her talent for a greater cause.    Nirali’s recent return to painƟng in 2023 has been nothing short of remarkable. Her work is now heavily  inspired by her daily walks through her CuperƟno neighborhood, where she draws on the vibrant colors  and calming energy of the environment. Her pieces oŌen feature moƟfs of flowers, symbolizing growth  and renewal—concepts that Nirali herself embodies in both her art and her life.    What sets Nirali apart is not only her talent but her desire to create art that connects deeply with others.  Her current piece, Bloom Every Day, beauƟfully captures the cycle of growth, transformaƟon, and the joy  found in life’s simple moments. Through her art, Nirali invites viewers to pause, reflect, and appreciate  the beauty around them.    I have no doubt that Nirali’s arƟsƟc talent, dedicaƟon, and passion make her a strong candidate for this  award. She is a deeply thoughƞul arƟst who conƟnues to push her creaƟve boundaries, and her  contribuƟons to the art community will undoubtedly be impacƞul.    It is with the utmost enthusiasm that I recommend Nirali Patel for the Emerging ArƟst Award. She is a  true arƟst in every sense, and I am confident that this recogniƟon will enable her to conƟnue to grow  and inspire others through her incredible work.    Sincerely,  Vinotha Sundaram  Friend turned Family       553 ACC 11-04-2024 553 of 554 https://youtube.com/shorts/7Gmuk1EAwYk?si=pNgaa419sQDYFHyA 554 ACC 11-04-2024 554 of 554