Sonoma Community Center finds its Muse

“Service is our passion,” Kimberly and Simon Blattner are fond of saying. “We’re happiest not getting more, but giving more.”

There is a long list of organizations that have benefited from the Blattner’s selfless philanthropy, including Sonoma Valley Collaborative, Sonoma Valley Catalyst Fund, Sonoma Land Trust, La Luz, the Sonoma Valley Fund, Sonoma Valley Hospital, the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, the Sonoma International Film Festival,  Valley of the Moon Music Festival, and Sonoma Community Center (Center).

“Community is at the heart of all Kimberly and Simon do,” said Vanessa Rognlien, executive director of the Center. “They embody all the best in community. They are tireless in their efforts toward a more equitable society, passionate about sharing and creating art, and value teaching and learning. On top of it all, their love and respect for each other and their family is tangible. They are an inspiration.”

It’s that sense of dedication that Center celebrates each year with its Muse award, to be celebrated with a gala event on October 7. Kimberly and Simon Blattner are the 2023 honorees.

Rognlien explains that a muse is a person or a personified force who is the source of inspiration for a creative artist. The Sonoma Community Center is itself a source of inspiration for artists, potters, musicians, dancers, chefs, and performers. The Center has an annual tradition of choosing a notable local as a muse — recent recipients include Steve & Holly Kyle, Elaine Bell and Kevin McNeely — and celebrating him or her with a gala.

The Muse Gala first held in 2006. It is the signature fundraising event benefiting Sonoma Community Center.

“We have an outstanding Print Studio at Sonoma Community Center,” Rognlien said.  “Thanks to the generosity of Kimberly and Simon who donated two professional etching presses to be used in printmaking classes and by artists during the open studio time.”

Sonoma Community Center will honor Kimberly and Simon Blattner at the Muse Gala on Saturday, October 7.