Remembering Don Cribb: The Visionary Who Transformed Santa Ana’s Arts Scene

In a poignant moment for the Santa Ana community, we mourn the passing of Don Cribb, a remarkable figure whose contributions left an indelible mark on the local arts landscape. Three police officers confirmed his death this afternoon, emphasizing that foul play is not suspected. The loss resonates deeply, as Cribb had been slowing down this year, yet his legacy remains vibrant and impactful.

A Life Dedicated to Creativity and Culture

Born and raised in Santa Ana, Don Cribb graduated from Valley High School before pursuing higher education at the University of Southern California, where he earned degrees in English and Film. His academic journey extended to the University of the Americas in Mexico City, a time he fondly recalled as transformative, filled with adventures in the vibrant art community of Mexico.

From Personal Struggles to Community Triumphs

Cribb’s early life was not without its challenges. On his LinkedIn page, he reflected on a dysfunctional family background, mentioning his father's struggles with alcoholism following the Korean War. Yet, this adversity shaped him into a creative soul, one who found solace in the rhythmic motion of the family car, dreaming of a brighter future.

Championing the Arts in Santa Ana

In the 1980s, while many viewed Santa Ana through a lens of crime and despair, Cribb saw potential. In 1987, he founded the Santa Ana Council of Arts and Culture (SACAC), a nonprofit organization with a vision to integrate art and culinary experiences in the community. This initiative led to the creation of the Artists Village, a 10-block arts hub that became a cornerstone of the city’s cultural revival.

Key Accomplishments of Don Cribb

• Founded the Santa Ana Council of Arts and Culture in 1987.
• Instrumental in establishing the Artists Village, Orange County's first publicly funded artist colony.
• Facilitated significant city investments in arts infrastructure, including millions in federal grants.
• Collaborated with notable artists like David Hockney to enhance local arts visibility.

A Lasting Legacy

Cribb's vision materialized when he attracted renowned artist David Hockney for a solo exhibition in Santa Ana, a shift from the artist's typical venues. This event garnered media attention and further solidified the city's burgeoning arts movement. The Grand Central Art Center, opened in 1999, was another feather in Cribb’s cap, serving as the anchor for the Artists Village.

Reflections from the Community

Former Santa Ana Mayor Miguel Pulido noted Cribb's significant contributions, underscoring that while much was achieved, there were also aspirations left unfulfilled. Cherie Kerr, Artistic Director of the OC Crazies, stated, “Without Don Cribb, the art community in Santa Ana wouldn’t have flourished.” Randy Au, Assistant Director of the Visual Arts Conservatory, hailed him as the “visionary godfather of the whole arts movement here in Santa Ana.”

Cribb's home in the Park Santiago Neighborhood was a gathering place for friends and community members, who often brought him lunch and shared moments of joy. His warmth and passion for the arts will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

What do you think?

• How do you think Don Cribb’s legacy will influence future generations of artists in Santa Ana?
• Do you believe local governments are doing enough to support arts initiatives in communities like Santa Ana?
• What role do you think art plays in addressing social issues within a community?
• Should there be more public funding allocated to arts and culture, especially in struggling neighborhoods?