Arts Commission tables Ojai Day poster recommendation, directs stakeholder consultation

The Arts Commission debated whether the Ojai Day poster should remain a parks-and-recreation-administered contest or be overseen by the commission as part of a broader celebration.

Commissioners raised questions about who has historically run the contest, whether prize money still exists, and whether the poster should be a community celebration, a judged contest or both. "It was a contest before," one commissioner said; others recalled prize amounts ranging from $50 to $400 in prior years.

Deborah Cutler, an artist and public commenter, suggested calling the event a "celebration and contest" with a gallery display of all submissions and recognition for runners-up. "Call it a celebration and an opening," Cutler said, arguing that a gallery display would help artists feel seen.

After extended discussion about process and ownership (events vs. parks and rec), Vice Chair Steiner moved to table the recommendation pending more information. Chair West then moved an amended motion directing staff to discuss the proposal with stakeholdersincluding city council liaisons, Parks & Recreation, artists and staffand return with a formal suggestion to council about the arts commission's involvement. Commissioners approved the motion by voice vote.

What happened and what's next: The commission did not assume direct control of the poster at this meeting. Instead it voted to consult stakeholders and to bring a clarified recommendation back to the council and commission for a future agenda item.