Each year, Sierra Art Trails presents community awards to schools, organizations, businesses, and individuals who support the arts.
The awards we present are determined by our annual revenue. After our expenses are paid, and a seed budget has been set aside for the following year, the balance is donated to worthy organizations, school programs, or individuals. The more successful we are, the more we can give back each year. Since 2003 we have presented over $24,000 in community awards. These moneys are raised through artist fees, donations, catalog advertising, and our annual fundraising efforts.
For more information, or to make a donation call 559-658-8844 or email: admin@sierraarttrails.org
To donate via Paypal, click the Donate button below. Any amount is appreciated. Sponsors receive special benefits based on their level of sponsorship.
The Keeper of the Flame
The Keeper of the Flame Award was inspired by the idea that the arts benefit and enhance our lives, our communities, and our culture on a fundamental level. The award is presented annually to a business or organization in recognition of their contributions to the arts and the creative community. The Keeper of the Flame is not a cash award. The “Flame” a welded steel sculpture donated by Fresno artist Chris Sorensen in 2004, is passed on year to year as a symbol of commitment and dedication to supporting the arts in our area.
Since 2007 the award has been presented to; Sixth Street Cinema in Mariposa, Yosemite Western Artists, Timberline Gallery, Madera County Arts Council, Golden Chain Theater, Mariposa County Arts Council, the Children’s Museum of the Sierra, Sorensen Studio Gallery, Visit Yosemite Madera County, Allard’s Art Supplies in Fresno, Janet and Rick Flores and KFCF 88.1 FM Free Speech Radio in Fresno, Branches Books in Oakhurst, Donald Munro – arts journalist and host of the Munro Review, and Carolyn Hartling – artist.
2026 Recipient – We are proud to present the 2026 Keeper of the Flame award to Dr. Darin J. Soukup!
Dr. Darin J. Soukup is Dean of Madera Community College, Oakhurst Campus. Darin is recognized for his commitment to community enrichment, and his crucial role in the development of the new state-of-the-art Oakhurst Campus. This year’s award is presented in honor of Darin’s support for the creative arts in our area, and his recognition of the importance of the arts in education. He champions the philosophy that a college should serve as a cultural resource, providing enrichment opportunities that uplift local culture.
Congratulations Dr. Darin J. Soukup!
CLICK HERE to learn more about past recipients of “the Keeper of the Flame” award.
