Arts Council for Monterey County reveals the 2024 Champions of the Arts.

The Arts Council for Monterey County announced the 2024 Champions of the Arts awardees. These five extraordinary local individuals will be recognized at Arts4MC's Annual Champions of the Arts Awards Breakfast on Friday, Aug. 9. 

Arts4MC honors the following individuals: abstract realism painter Gregory Gallardo (aka Gregorytheartist), community mosaic artist SanDee Adams, public art and mural coordinator José Arreola, jazz pianist and composer Tammy Lynne Hall and philanthropic leader in classical music Cyril Yansouni.

As a combat veteran grappling with PTSD and bipolar disorder, Gallardo, a resident of Salinas, channels his experiences into textured acrylic canvases that explore serene landscapes, blending abstract realism with bold brushstrokes to convey both movement and tranquility. His art also serves as a platform to raise awareness about mental health.

Adams is a mosaic artist based in Aromas who integrates herself into the community with her public artworks and leadership in local arts organizations such as Aromas Hills Artisans. Using materials such as stained glass and hammered copper, she creates bespoke mosaics inspired by nature.

Arreola has been involved in Salinas' public art scene since 2020, spearheading initiatives like the annual Public Art Plan and the Downtown Trash Corral Art Project, which revitalized urban spaces through murals. He works to foster local artistic talent through initiatives such as the Amor Salinas Public "Hearts" project and the Neighborhood Beautification grant program.

Hall has performed at venues worldwide, including the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall, and has also dedicated herself to music education and accessibility. Her impact extends beyond awards like the Grammy for Best Children’s Recording, such as initiatives like the Gospel Sunday program at the Monterey Jazz Festival and working with local arts organizations.

Yansouni has spent two decades with the Carmel Bach Festival as a board member and president, steering it through challenges and fostering its growth. His commitment to music education coupled with his fundraising prowess has benefited the festival and other performing arts organizations across the Monterey Peninsula.

The Champions of the Arts award recognizes individuals and nonprofit organizations that have demonstrated exceptional dedication and advocacy to the arts in Monterey County, according to Arts4MC. Nominations were collected from the community and reviewed by a jury of previous Champions and arts community representatives.

“It's always a tough decision for our panelists, who most are past Champions, as they sift through numerous nominations each year,” shared Jacquie Atchison, executive director of Arts4MC. “They have shown great care and consideration in selecting these five amazing individuals, and we are truly excited to acknowledge them this year.”

The Awards Breakfast aims not only to celebrate these exemplary "champions,” but also to raise awareness of Arts4MC programs and generate funds to support Arts Education and Arts4Healing initiatives. These programs serve more than 30,000 youth, people with disabilities, survivors of human trafficking, the homeless, senior citizens and veterans annually.

For information about the event and to purchase tickets, visit arts4mc.org/champions.