The Ojai Studio Artists have announced $10,750 in scholarships in 2025 to students at Nordhoff High School as part of the nonprofit community group’s ongoing efforts to support arts and young artists in the Ojai Valley.

Seven students were selected to receive the grants:

Giselle Welch

Lilly Wilson

Oeser Jamyang

Wesley Hopkins

Chaya Valenzuela

Laila Bowen

Robert Holdsworth.

The winning students received their grants and give brief remarks at a special public presentation at the Ojai Valley Museum on Sunday June 1 from 2-4 pm.

In addition, artworks made by the students were displayed at the museum in a special exhibit May 29-June 8, 2025.

“Besides the dollar amount received by the winners to help pay for tuition and art supplies, the Scholarship Committee sees the process as vital preparation for their fledgling careers and serves as a truly meaningful show of encouragement and support to these young artists,” says Susan Stinsmuehlen-Amend, co-chair of the committee.

Applicants were asked to write an artist statement, organize photographs of their work and apply online through the OSA website. Those selected from the online process were then asked to present their work person-to-person to a jury of seven OSA artists who comprise the Scholarship Committee.

“Meeting the students creates a truly meaningful experience for all of us,” says Carol Shaw Sutton, co-chair of scholarships.“We want to thank the Nordhoff art department, particularly Kate Thomas and Jess Westergard, for facilitating our interaction with the students.” The awards are named in honor of past notable Ojai Studio Artists or founders, such as Beatrice Wood, Vivika and Otto Heino and Horace Bristol.

Funds for the grants were raised through ticket sales for the Ojai Studio Artists’ October open studio tour and donations. Use the "Donate" button to contribute for next year's scholarship program. New students will apply for next year's grants in early 2026.

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